The Greater Easton Development Partnership (GEDP) has appointed Emily Roland as its new market manager.
The leadership transition follows the departure of Megan McBride as she moves on to a new position to work on food policy, education and marketing at the regional level.
As McBride moved on to her new position, the community was invited to celebrate her contributions on her last day at the Easton Farmers Market on July 6.
“It is bittersweet to announce the departure of Megan McBride, who had been with the Greater Easton Development Partnership over the last 18 years,” said Jared Mast, executive director of GEDP. “Most of the community knows Megan from her remarkable tenure as the leader of the Easton Farmers Market, but her journey with GEDP began as the assistant manager of the Easton Main Street Initiative. From launching and organizing events to tirelessly working behind the scenes to support local businesses, Megan’s impact has been profound and far-reaching, and we look forward to seeing what she does at the regional level.”
Roland has been with GEDP for the last two market seasons as assistant manager of the Easton Market District, and steps into the role of market manager with a rich background in local food systems and community engagement.
A graduate of the University of Vermont with a Bachelor of Science in environmental studies, Roland brings a wealth of experience in sustainable farming practices and community building. In her role, she will oversee the Easton Farmers Market and the West Ward Market.
“In the time I’ve spent in the Easton food and events community, I know I’ve found myself a group of dedicated people who want to continue bettering the places they live, eat, work, and recreate,” Roland said. “In supporting and working with farmers, volunteers, children, food producers, community members, Lafayette College, local nonprofit organizations and the City of Easton, I’ve seen the collective effort pay off by strengthening the fabric of the community and connection to each other at the markets.”
Roland has worked on various farms and in community gardens, gaining valuable experience in diversified vegetable farming and animal husbandry. Her background includes roles at grocery co-ops, nonprofit management, and farmers market management, providing her with a wide scope of knowledge about functional food systems.
“Farming and creating an engaged food community has given me the skills to cope with things beyond my control and to learn and grow from the rich history of those who have worked this land,” Roland said. “I’m excited to bring more sustainable thinking and behavior to the markets in an age of hyper-consumerism and convenience.”
Join our readers whose generous donations are making it possible for you to read our news coverage. Help keep local journalism alive and our community strong. Donate today.
