Indiana Grown Commission announces 2 new members

Lt. Governor Suzanne Crouch recently announced the appointment of two new Indiana Grown Commission members, Krista Stillwell and Nanci Sears Perry, and the re-appointment of three members.

“I am so excited to welcome Krista Stillwell and Nanci Sears Perry to the Indiana Grown Commission,” said Lt. Gov. Crouch, Indiana’s Secretary of Agriculture and Rural Development. “They have the knowledge and capacity to help Indiana businesses grow. The Indiana Grown Commission represent all aspects of our industry, such as farmer’s markets, marketing and advertising, distributors, chefs, educators and restaurateurs. Thanks to their expertise, the Indiana Grown program will have the best available resources for their businesses.”

Krista Stillwell founded Stillwell brands in 2015, where she serves as founder and chief strategist. She consults with clients on business strategy, social media, marketing, promotional strategy, growth strategy and more. Stillwell specializes in seeking out small to medium-sized businesses to create and manage promotional strategy and marketing needs.

“Krista and Nanci bring unique expertise to the Indiana Grown Commission,” said Caroline Patrick, Director of Indiana Grown. “As we enter our ninth year of the Indiana Grown program, I look forward to seeing how our commission leadership can help guide and support our growing program.”

Nanci Sears Perry serves as the Market Manager for Yorktown Farm and Artisan Market. Yorktown Farm and Artisan Market has weekly vendors, a Young Entrepreneur program, live music, food trucks, monthly car shows and opportunities to get involved in Yorktown. Sears Perry believes that the market has become a place for Yorktown community members to connect with each other and a place for small businesses to grow.

Indiana Grown is a marketing initiative started by the Indiana State Department of Agriculture (ISDA) to promote local products to the public. Indiana Grown is supported by a commission of 12 individuals, including ISDA Director Don Lamb. Those members include:

  • Jeff Bricker - Ivy Tech State College, Hospitality Program, Department Chair
  • Mike Hoopengardner - Farm Bureau, Representative
  • Jennifer Rubenstein - Boone County Economic Development Corporation, Director Marketing and Communications
  • Leigh Rowan - Ft. Wayne Farmer’s Market, Market Manager
  • Mayasari Effendi - Mayasari Tempeh, Owner
  • Nicky Nolot - Tolon Restaurant, Owner
  • Marcus Agresta - Piazza Produce, President
  • Rachel Boyer - Rachel’s Taste of Indiana, Owner
  • Don Lamb - Indiana State Department of Agriculture, Director
  • Nathan Shoaf - Purdue University, Diversified Farming and Food Systems Program Leader
  • Krista Stillwell - Stillwell+Co Marketing & Business Strategy, Owner
  • Nanci Sears Perry - Yorktown Farm and Artisan Market, Market Manager

Commission member terms vary and are selected by Lt. Gov. Crouch.