The Washington Conference

Schedule of Events

Monday, June 9, 2025

8:30 AM - 10:00 AM

Supply Chain Council Volunteer Leadership Meeting

9:00 AM - 12:00 PM

U.S. Country Council Volunteer Leadership Meeting (By Invitation Only)

10:00 AM - 3:00 PM

Food Safety Council Volunteer Leadership Meeting

11:15 AM - 4:00 PM

Transform the Fresh Produce Supply Chain

Join industry leaders at the Supply Chain of the Future Program Symposium. This FREE, one-day event (live at the Grand Hyatt Washington D.C. or virtually) brings together experts from across the fresh produce ecosystem to showcase breakthrough technologies, launch pilot programs, and build collaborative solutions to our industry's most pressing challenges. Be part of the revolution that's creating a more efficient, transparent, and sustainable global food system.

Register for Symposium



*This one-day symposium is free, but requires a separate registration from The Washington Conference.  

Learn more about The Supply Chain of the Future Symposium



1:00 PM - 3:00 PM

Market Sector Issue Forum

From farm to fork, Grower-Shipper, Fresh-Cut Processor, Wholesaler-Distributor, Retail, Foodservice members will come together to share perspectives and valuable insights on key issues affecting the industry. Guide the association in shaping the future of worldwide advocacy, personalized member experience and future proofing the industry. 

1:00 PM - 3:00 PM

U.S. Policy Committee Meeting

1:00 PM - 3:00 PM

U.S. Grassroots & Engagement Committee Meeting

1:00 PM - 3:00 PM

Organics Committee Meeting

3:30 PM - 4:30 PM

Opening General Session: IFPA's 2025 Policy Priorities - Your Voice. Your Impact.

Start your Washington Conference experience with a collaborative look at the pressing policy issues shaping the produce and floral industry. This opening session goes beyond a traditional briefing—offering an overview of key priorities like labor, nutrition, trade, the Farm Bill, tax policy, and food safety, while encouraging attendees to share experiences, challenges, and insights. Whether you're navigating these issues on the ground or advocating on the Hill, this is your opportunity to learn from one another, build confidence, and prepare to speak with a united, informed voice. 

Moderator

Rebeckah Adcock

Rebeckah Adcock
VP, U.S. Government Relations
International Fresh Produce Association

 

Panelists

Mollie Van Lieu

Mollie Van Lieu
Vice President, Nutrition & Health
International Fresh Produce Association

 

John Hollay

John Hollay
Director U.S. Government Relations
International Fresh Produce Association

 

Sara Neagu Reed

Sara Neagu-Reed
Director of Production & Environmental Policy
International Fresh Produce Association

 

4:30 PM - 5:30 PM

Advocacy Bootcamp Meet-Up for New Attendees

Designed for first-time attendees to connect with seasoned advocates, to hear first-hand their tips and tricks to navigating Capitol Hill with confidence.  

5:00 PM - 6:30 PM

Welcome to DC: Washington Conference Opening Reception 

Tuesday, June 10, 2025

7:45 AM - 9:00 AM

State of the Fresh Nation Breakfast & Address

Start your morning with fresh insights and forward-looking perspective at this essential breakfast session. The State of the Fresh Nation address will equip attendees with a clear view of the trends, challenges, and policy priorities shaping our industry today. Gain the knowledge and inspiration needed to advocate effectively and lead confidently in the conversations that matter most. 

Host

Cathy Burns

Cathy Burns
CEO
International Fresh Produce Association

9:00 AM - 11:30 AM

Congressional Meetings Help Desk Open

9:00 AM - 9:30 AM

Keynote General Session: Policy in Action - What's Coming & What It Means for You

Public policy isn’t just background noise—it shapes the business landscape for everyone in the fresh produce and floral industries. In this powerful keynote, top officials take the stage to break down the legislation, regulation, and global dynamics that are impacting your business right now—and what’s on the horizon. Discover how decisions in Washington ripple through your operations and what you can do to stay ahead. 

9:30 AM - 10:00 AM

What You Need to Know: Congressional Meetings Logistics & Schedule Distribution

10:30 AM - 11:30 AM

Concurrent Education Sessions:
Advocate for Fresh on Capitol Hill: Focus on Policy Priorities

Master your message as you gain important insights from subject matter experts and industry leaders.

11:45 AM - 1:00 PM

The Power of Advocacy Luncheon & Awards

1:15 PM - 1:45 PM

Travel to Capitol Hill

2:30 PM - 5:00 PM

Advocate for Fresh on Capitol Hill:  U.S. House of Representatives Meetings

5:00 PM - 6:30 PM

The Joy of Fresh on Capitol Hill

7:00 PM - 9:00 PM

Return on Influence: FreshPAC Reception & Dinner (Separate Registration Required)

The Willard, 1401 Pennsylvania Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20004

 

Wednesday, June 11, 2025

8:00 AM - 9:00 AM

Women’s Fresh Perspectives: Focus on Advocacy Breakfast

9:00 AM - 9:45 AM

Keynote Address

Kyle Diamantas

Kyle Diamantas
Acting Deputy Director Commissioner for Human Foods
FDA

 

9:30 AM - 10:15 PM

Congressional Meetings Help Desk Open

9:45 AM - 10:15 AM

Travel to Congressional Meetings on Capitol Hill

(on own with your Congressional Meeting Team)  

10:30 AM - 12:30 AM

Advocate for Fresh on Capitol Hill: U.S. Senate Meetings

1:30 PM - 5:00 PM

Power of Fresh: Focus on Food Safety and Regulation