The Animal Agriculture Alliance recently announced changes to its staff structure to position the organization for enhanced growth in program development and member engagement.

Nicki Hardy joined the organization as manager, partnerships and programs on March 2, 2026. Emily Ellis and Grace Simpson stepped into new roles as director, communications and marketing, and manager, member relations and communications, respectively.

As manager, partnerships and programs, Hardy will lead the Alliance’s membership and sponsorship growth strategy while overseeing the planning and execution of key programs, including College Aggies Online and Animal Ag Allies. She will raise awareness of the Alliance and its programs within the animal agriculture and food communities to ensure members and supporters have the information and resources they value and need. Hardy will play a primary role in securing resources for the organization to achieve its mission of safeguarding the future of animal agriculture.

“The Alliance is excited to welcome Nicki to our small but mighty team,” said Hannah Thompson-Weeman, president and CEO. “Nicki joins our staff with a breadth of experience engaging with and supporting industry stakeholders to advance animal agriculture. We look forward to her support in this new role to further our important mission.”

 Prior to joining the Alliance, Hardy worked in field operations for American Humane Society and business support and sales for Adisseo. She holds a B.S. in dairy science from Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, an M.S. in mammary physiology from The Ohio State University, and an MBA from Lebanon Valley College.

As director, communications and marketing, Ellis will continue to lead the Alliance’s brand, messaging, and tone while taking on new roles to oversee marketing initiatives for the organization’s key programs, including the Stakeholders Summit, College Aggies Online, and Animal Ag Allies. Ellis has been on the Alliance team since 2020.

In her role as manager, member relations and communications, Simpson will lead the organization’s social media and website management while taking on new leadership in member engagement and retention efforts. Simpson first joined the Alliance in 2022.

“Emily and Grace bring fresh ideas to their new responsibilities, grounded in their years of experience with the Alliance,” said Thompson-Weeman. “These updated roles will position the Alliance for future growth, while further establishing them as leaders within the animal agriculture community.”

Learn more about the Alliance’s staff here, as well as the 2026 Stakeholders Summit, set for May 5-7 in Kansas City, Mo. 

Source: Animal Agriculture Alliance