For Immediate Release:

Media Contact: Amy Philpott, (202) 303-3425

Washington, DC (January 22, 2008) - The United Fresh Research & Education Foundation has opened the application period for the 14^th annual class of the Produce Industry Leadership Program. Made possible through a generous grant from DuPont Crop Protection, the program is a special opportunity for United Fresh members to advance their leadership skills and knowledge. United Fresh invites all eligible members to apply.

The Leadership Program, launched in 1995, is developed around four fundamental goals: Leadership Development; Business Relationships; Government & Public Affairs; and Media & Public Relations. During the yearlong program, participants will take part in a series of customized trips including face-to-face meetings with leading industry players; hands-on training with top industry experts and educators, together with a specially designed curriculum at UC Davis; interactive experiences with influential leaders in Washington, DC and much more. This year's schedule will feature trips to Central/Northern California, Washington, DC, Wilmington, DE, and Southern Florida. The class will graduate at the 2009 United Fresh convention.

Participation in the program is limited to 12 individuals. The applicants are selected by an Advisory Committee and 12 individuals are chosen from a broad cross section of the industry to represent the breadth of the United Fresh membership. Since the program’s inception, more than 150 industry members have participated. United Fresh Board member and Leadership Class 3 program alumnus Ashley Rawl, Walter P. Rawl & Sons, Inc. will serve as the Chairman of the 2008 Advisory Committee.

"This program is about expanding horizons and broadening understanding of all facets of the produce industry," said Rawl. "This is a great opportunity for personal and professional growth. I encourage anyone who is looking to enhance their leadership skills to apply for this program."

Candidates interested in applying for the program can download information and an application from United Fresh’s website www.unitedfresh.org/programs. The deadline for applications is March 17, 2008. The Leadership Program is an exclusive program for United Fresh members only. It is the only ongoing, fully paid national leadership program for the produce industry. For more information, contact Victoria Backer, United Fresh senior vice president member services, foundation, at vbacker@unitedfresh.org or 202-303-3408.