Elizabeth Whiteman

Executive Director at Blue Ridge Women in Agriculture

Elizabeth Whiteman is the Executive Director of Blue Ridge Women in Agriculture (BRWIA), a non-profit organization based in Boone, North Carolina.1 2 She has held this position since 2019, bringing with her a wealth of experience in sustainable agriculture, food sovereignty, and federal farm policy.3

Background and Education

Elizabeth, also known as Liz, grew up in northern Minnesota, where she spent summers helping her parents in their backyard gardens.3 She earned a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science from the University of Wisconsin-Madison.3

Professional Experience

After graduating, Liz pursued her passion for regenerative agriculture and food sovereignty, working in various roles:

Worked in urban gardens in New Orleans
Gained experience on tropical farms in rural Ecuador
Spent 5 years in Washington DC focusing on federal farm policy
Worked on increasing funding for sustainable agriculture
Focused on strengthening nutrition programs like WIC and SNAP
Worked a season at Tumbling Shoals Farm in Wilkes County, North Carolina

Current Role at BRWIA

As Executive Director of Blue Ridge Women in Agriculture, Liz is dedicated to:

Working with local farmers and community members
Striving for a vibrant, equitable, and sustainable food system
Overseeing programs such as the High Country Food Hub
Managing initiatives like LocalFAM and Double Up Food Bucks

Liz's experience in federal policy and hands-on agricultural work has positioned her well to lead BRWIA in its mission to support and promote sustainable agriculture in the Blue Ridge region.2 3