The National Mango Board is encouraging mango industry leaders to participate in the upcoming new board member nominations process. By actively participating, board members will have the opportunity to shape the future direction of NMB programs in upcoming years. The NMB is currently seeking nominations for three board member positions to serve a three-year term starting in 2020.

The positions currently open are two importers of frozen mango and one processor of frozen mango. Candidates must meet certain requirements to be eligible and be willing to serve the mango industry by fulfilling board member roles and responsibilities.

Board members dedicate themselves to the NMB mission to increase consumption of mangos in the U.S. through innovative research and promotional activities, while also fostering a thriving industry. Board members work closely with the NMB staff to carryout marketing, research and communications programs to benefit the mango industry.

The U.S. secretary of agriculture ultimately appoints new board members from a final slate of nominees. For each frozen mango importer two nominees will be forwarded to the secretary of agriculture. To narrow the selection of nominees to the two required for submission, frozen mango industry members will vote to select the two nominees per position for the secretary of agriculture to choose. Frozen mango processor nominations will be submitted by mango foreign producing organizations or themselves. All nominations for these positions will be forwarded to the secretary of agriculture for a final decision on the appointments.

Frozen mango industry members who are interested in serving as a member of the NMB should visit mango.org/nominations for complete details, updates, and the necessary forms. Nominations must be received at the NMB office no later than Sept. 20. Questions about the nominations and appointment process can be directed to Anna Deschamps-Polonia (407/629-7318 x112).