The Indiana Grown program is under new leadership. Lt. Gov. Suzanne Crouch and Indiana State Department of Agriculture Director Bruce Kettler on Thursday announced that Caroline Patrick will lead the program and its nearly 2,000 members as director.
Patrick was most recently director of food nutrition at Community Hospital East in Indianapolis. During her time at the hospital, Patrick oversaw the budget and team of nearly 80 employees and established a bistro that specialized in local foods.
“I am excited to see where Caroline will take the Indiana Grown program,” said Crouch in written remarks. “Caroline will lead the charge in elevating the Indiana Grown program while continuing to provide value to its members and Hoosier consumers.”
Patrick replaces Heather Tallman, who left to join the American Dairy Association Indiana more than a year ago.
In her new role, Patrick is expected to help Indiana Grown members find and secure new opportunities and consumers shop for local products. She will meet with elected officials on behalf of the program and oversee the Indiana Grown team to map out a strategic vision and complete other operational needs.
“The Indiana Grown program is an exceptional way to promote shopping local and value-added production and processing here in the state of Indiana,” said Kettler. “I am confident under Caroline’s leadership, the Indiana Grown program will continue to flourish and advance to the next level.”
The ISDA said Patrick’s background also includes experience in culinary arts and local food procurement.
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