Producer-led Board will help advance demand-building, innovation and consumer trust on behalf of America’s egg farmers

CHICAGO (May 14, 2026) – American Egg Board (AEB) today announced its 2026 producer leaders, including newly appointed members and alternates, following the 2026 Annual Spring Meeting, reinforcing the producer leadership behind the national egg checkoff.

The Board is composed of egg producers from across the country, representing the depth and diversity of the U.S. egg industry. Together, they direct the organization’s work on behalf of America’s egg farmers.

The Board elected its officers for the coming term, with the full slate approved by unanimous vote. Andy Seger was elected to serve as Chair, with Ross Dean as Vice Chair, Tony Wesner as Secretary and John Watson, III, as Treasurer. Sara Stiebrs and Natalie Held were elected to serve as Members At-Large. Alex Simpson continues in his role as Immediate Past Chair.

“AEB’s strength begins with the producers who lead it,” said Emily Metz, president and CEO of AEB. “Their experience, discipline and commitment ensure that we stay focused on what matters most: building demand, strengthening trust in eggs and putting eggs at the center of the American diet.”

The following members and alternates were appointed to serve on AEB: 

  • Tony Wesner, Pantego, NC 
  • Natalie Held, Clarence, NY 
  • Gijs Schimmel, Lexington, GA 
  • Alex Simpson, Monroe, NC 
  • Matt Resnick, Lancaster, PA 
  • Chris Pierce, Annville, PA 
  • Andrew Seger, Dubois, IN 
  • Amy Herbruck, Saranac, MI 
  • Bryce McCory, Seymour, IN 
  • Michael Willmann, Portland, IN 
  • Kurt Nelson, Neosho, MO 
  • Ross Dean, Des Moines, IA 
  • Justin Haats, Howard Lake, MN 
  • John Bedell, Modesto, CA 
  • Melanie Johnson, Elberta, UT 
  • David Will, Colton, CA 
  • Michael Bowman, Sioux Center, IA 
  • Brent Nelson, Manhattan, KS 
  • Jasen Urena, Fullerton, CA 
  • Sara Stiebrs, Yelm, WA 
  • Evan Hayes, Newton, IA 

The following producers are currently serving existing terms: 

  • Jessica Hanslik, Ridgeland, MS 
  • John Puglisi, Howell, NJ 
  • John Watson, III, Nashville, NC 
  • Libby Schwab, Monroe, NH 
  • Mark Sauder, Lititz, PA 
  • Lake Wagner, Abingdon, VA 
  • Thomas Hertzfeld, III, Grand Rapids, OH 
  • Jeff Cutler, Fort Recovery, OH 
  • Sean Delano, Smithton, MO 
  • Tim Zweering, Holland, MI 
  • Mitch Knapke, New Weston, OH 
  • Alex Weaver, Versailles, OH 
  • Emily Battilega, Sioux Center, IA 
  • Tracy Ramsdell, Flandreau, SD 

AEB also recognizes with appreciation the service of the producers whose terms have concluded: 

  • Sandra Lausecker, Raymond, OH 
  • Sam Krouse, North Manchester, IN 
  • Christina Hudson-Kohler, Eldridge, NY 
  • Mindy Creighton-Truex, Atwood, IN 
  • Ted Greidanus, Neosho, MO 
  • Clint Hickman, Buckeye, AZ 
  • Pat Melena, Wakefield, NE 

“We are especially grateful to our board members whose terms have ended. They have shown invaluable guidance and support for our work. Our Board members bring practical, producer-led perspective to every decision we make,” Metz said. “That leadership matters as the industry continues navigating market volatility, consumer expectations and new opportunities to put eggs at the center of the American diet.” 

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About American Egg Board 
Home of The Incredible Egg, American Egg Board (AEB) is the national marketing organization of America’s egg producers. Its mission is to increase demand for eggs and egg products through research, education and promotion. AEB is 100 percent producer-funded and located in Chicago, Illinois. For more, visit IncredibleEgg.org.