NOFA-NH announced on Apr. 28 that Julie Davenson has been appointed as the organization’s new Executive Director.
Davenson’s appointment comes at a time when local food systems face several challenges, including rising costs and the impacts of climate change. The announcement highlights her previous five-year tenure as a volunteer member of NOFA-NH’s Board of Directors, where she served in multiple leadership roles such as Board President, Co-President, Vice President, and Chair of the Policy & Education Committee.
Davenson was recently recognized with the Policy & Advocacy Leader of the Year award at NOFA-NH’s 2026 Winter Conference for her work supporting advocacy efforts at state, regional, and federal levels. She has also led nonprofit organizations focused on agricultural education and sustainability. In addition to her professional experience, Davenson is pursuing doctoral studies in Sustainable Development at the University of Vermont and contributes research to agroecology initiatives.
“Having served on NOFA-NH’s board for years — most recently as Board President — I’ve seen firsthand how much this organization means to farmers, gardeners, and eaters across New Hampshire. That’s what makes stepping into this role feel less like a new beginning and more like a deepening commitment,” Davenson said.
She added: “We are at a genuinely critical moment. We are impacted by the rising costs of food. New Hampshire farmers are navigating rising input costs, shrinking markets, consolidation, and the accelerating pressures of climate change, and the choices we make as a state right now will shape who gets to farm and who gets access to healthy, locally grown food for decades to come. NOFA-NH has been a steadfast part of that fight for nearly 55 years… connecting members with resources, advocating for policies that support working farms… If you believe in a New Hampshire where good food is grown close to home… I hope you’ll join us.”
Nikki Kolb will continue with NOFA-NH in her new role as Development Director after serving previously as Operations Director.
According to the official website, New Hampshire Food Alliance strengthens the local food system through community events and partnerships. The alliance operates under the University of New Hampshire according to its official website. It works statewide by engaging community members in building an equitable local food network according to its official website.
The alliance also partners with organizations such as UNH Extension and NOFA-NH according to its official website, offering resources including strategic planning services and discussion series as reported by its official website.
