GREEN BAY, Wis. — Edge Dairy Farmer Cooperative today announced changes in two strategic roles in its federal policy advocacy area. The organization named Karen Gefvert as director of government affairs. Travis Senn will serve as director of public affairs.
Gefvert, an experienced leader in agricultural policy, joined Edge in late 2022 in the public affairs role. She had spent the previous 11 years with the Wisconsin Farm Bureau Federation, first as executive director of government relations and then as innovation and engagement strategist.
“Stepping into this role during a farm bill year and USDA Federal Milk Marketing Order hearing is exciting and gives us an incredible opportunity to weigh into federal dairy policy, ” Gefvert said. “I am excited for the opportunity to continue the progressive work our organization is known for.”
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Senn, most recently Edge’s director of communications, joined the cooperative’s communications team in late 2021 after having led marketing and communications efforts for a milk marketing cooperative in Florida. In the public affairs role, he will direct external communications related to Edge’s government affairs work along with that of the Dairy Business Association, the co-op’s sister organization in Wisconsin.
“I’m thrilled for the opportunity to take a more active role in advocating for our Midwestern dairy farm families,” Senn said. “Working in dairy has always been a true privilege, and I look forward to continuing my career with such a forward-thinking group of farmers.”
Edge CEO Tim Trotter said the changes reflect the evolution of the organization and a consistent focus on aligning talent to provide the greatest value for its members, who are spread throughout the Midwest.
“We are at a critical time for dairy policy, pricing and regulations and as such we need to have a team of experienced, engaged and informed professionals leading our government affairs activities,” Trotter said. “We are confident that Karen and Travis will provide the leadership we need to continue to effectively advocate for our members.”
Last month, Edge announced Laura Hensley, who is new to the co-op, as director of communications.
