While every National Watermelon Queen’s reign must come to an end after a year, Eleanor Bullock has managed to keep her title as the NWA Promotions Coordinator for nearly 40 years, and while she’s truly cherished the relationships she’s built and memories she’s made, alas it is finally time to pass down her coordinator crown.

When Bob Morrissey joined the National Watermelon Association nearly 20 years ago as the organization’s first executive director, there was no blueprint to follow. He was tasked with setting a new course for one of the oldest commodity-specific organizations in the world.

As the National Watermelon Association prepares for the departure of longtime Executive Director Bob Morrissey, it also looks forward to embarking on a new chapter with a new leader.

George Szczepanski joined the NWA in January and will officially take the helm of the association during its 108th annual convention Feb. 22-26 in Asheville, NC. While Szczepanski is new to the watermelon industry, he has already amassed a wealth of experience in produce.

The National Watermelon Promotion Board and research partner Armada Corporate Intelligence Inc. invite all interested parties to their 2017-21 Economic Evaluation presentation, which will take place Feb. 23rd at 8 a.m. during the National Watermelon Convention at the Omni Grove Park Inn in Asheville, NC.

After 19 years leading the National Watermelon Association as executive director, Bob Morrissey will retire this coming March. He will be  succeeded by George Szczepanski, a 12-year veteran of the Produce Marketing Association and the newly formed International Fresh Produce Association, who currently holds the position of director of production, supply chain and environmental policy.

The National Watermelon Promotion Board launched an online toolkit to promote watermelon during the winter months. The new landing page is designed as a resource for retailers, media and industry members, such as watermelon importers, to help position and promote watermelon year-round.