American Seed Trade Association elects John Schoenecker to leadership role

  • On July 16, 2012

ALEXANDRIA, Va. — The American Seed Trade Association elected John Schoenecker of HM.CLAUSE second vice chair during its 129th Annual Convention in National Harbor, Md.

Shoenecker, HM.CLAUSE director of intellectual property, has been serving ASTA in several capacities for a number of years. Most recently, he has co-led the ASTA and Biotechnology Industry Organization (BIO) joint working group on patent expiration.

“John’s participation and dedication to the association and the furthering of the global seed industry has been a tremendous support through the years,” said Andy LaVigne, ASTA president and chief executive officer. “He brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to this position and will help guide ASTA and its Board of Directors for the next six years.”

Schoenecker, originally from Minnesota, resides in California and has been with HM.CLAUSE since 1987. He’s not only been active in ASTA, but also the California Seed Association.

“As a young person thinking about a career, while attracted to agriculture emotionally, I also reasoned that people will always need to eat. A job in agriculture seed to offer job security,” Schoenecker said. “Little did I understand the social and political issues that impact our industry and make up a tremendous portion of our Association’s efforts.

“I have seen a tremendous flowering of the Association and staff during the last couple years, and I would like to thank those who have come before me for their work and insight in attracting the talent and providing the resources ASTA needs to continue serving as the voice for the seed industry.”

ASTA, established in 1883 and located in Alexandria, Va., is comprised of more than 700 companies involved in the development, marketing and movement of seed, associated products and services throughout the world. ASTA promotes the development of better seed to produce better crops for a better quality of life.

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