Robert Cooper Joins IFEEDER as Executive Director

The Institute for Feed Education and Research is pleased to announce the addition of Robert Cooper as its executive director, effective June 18. IFEEDER, the American Feed Industry Association’s public charity, focuses on research and education to support the feed industry.

Cooper will provide leadership for IFEEDER in crafting and implementing the overall strategic direction for the institute. He will develop and manage fundraising and donor stewardship programs and maintain relationships with current and future donors. He will also work closely with IFEEDER’s Board of Trustees and other committees to carry out key research and education projects and with AFIA’s communications team to share the institute’s mission and message in various communications to both donors and the public.

“As the animal food industry evolves, we need reliable data and research to effectively communicate with public and policymaker audiences about the issues that impact our business,” said AFIA’s President and CEO Joel G. Newman. “With Rob’s background in agriculture and fundraising, I know that he will bring forward creative ideas to increase donor involvement in their industry charity and leadership to help IFEEDER successfully fulfill its research and education focus for the future.”

Cooper joined IFEEDER from the University of Georgia’s College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences, where he served as assistant to the dean for external relations. In this position, he fundraised for the department, coordinated alumni relations and special events, and assisted in legislative and advocacy campaigns. Cooper has also worked with the National FFA Foundation and the Maryland 4-H Foundation.