A New Era Dawns for Tart Cherries with a Leader Who Combines Strategic Vision and Nutritional Expertise.
In a significant development for the future of tart cherries, the Cherry Industry Administrative Board (CIAB) and Cherry Marketing Institute (CMI) have named Amy Cohn as the new industry president, effective January 6, 2025.
Her primary focus will be to oversee the national promotion, health research, and educational initiatives for the tart cherry sector in collaboration with the USDA.
By taking the helm at this juncture, Cohn will guide the efforts to expand consumer outreach, drive increased consumption, and strengthen engagement among the 385 family farm producers spread across North America.
As stated in the official announcement, Cohn will also head CMI’s work as a leading voice and advocate for the tart cherry industry.
Her appointment coincides with a vital period for industry stakeholders eager to underscore the many benefits of tart cherries.
With more than two decades of experience as a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist and a strong background in brand strategy, Cohn steps into her new role equipped with the expertise to unite farmers, processors, and partners toward a common goal of greater visibility for this distinctive superfruit.
Before joining the tart cherry organizations, Cohn spent 17 years at General Mills, rising to the position of Senior Manager, Portfolio Nutrition and External Affairs for U.S. Cereal.
During her tenure, she managed strategic communications, public relations, and outreach initiatives that shaped the $35 billion company’s reputation and protected its cereal brands.
Her work included crafting a robust nutrition strategy, elevating product credibility through strategic renovations and innovations, and forging partnerships with major organizations such as the American Heart Association, Got Milk, and Chiquita Bananas.
“Amy brings a distinct blend of strategic vision, nutritional expertise and a deep understanding of consumer trends. She is the right person at the right moment to lead the U.S. tart cherry industry. Her passion for innovation and collaboration line up perfectly with our industry’s commitment to ensure tart cherries remain, and grow, as part of a beloved and essential part of nutritious diets nationwide.”
Melanie LaPerriere, Vice Chairwoman of the Cherry Marketing Institute (CMI) and President/CEO of Cherry Central
Through these efforts, Cohn successfully broadened the appeal of General Mills cereals while aligning with USDA dietary recommendations.
Cohn’s ability to translate complex nutritional insights into resonant consumer messages will now serve the tart cherry industry at a time when it seeks to highlight the fruit’s health benefits and culinary versatility.
Her vision revolves around building unity within the industry, championing product innovation, and driving home the important role that tart cherries can play in everyday nutrition.
“Tart cherries have an incredible story to tell from their myriad of health benefits to their trendy applications, to their connection to U.S. family farms. I look forward to working with growers, processors and partners to expand awareness and elevate this iconic superfruit to even greater heights.”
Amy Cohn, leader of Tart Cherry Industry
Cohn earned a B.S. in Science, Nutrition, and Dietetics from Dominican University in River Forest, IL, and completed her Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RDN) certification at the University of Illinois at Chicago.
This strong academic grounding will help her provide thoughtful leadership, as she weaves together both scientific findings and consumer-oriented communication strategies to advance the position of tart cherries in the marketplace.
