Ashley Collins has been named the new chief executive officer of the North Carolina Peanut Growers, replacing the long serving CEO, Bob Sutter, who will be retiring from the association July 31.

In a news release, Lynn Hobbs, president of the North Carolina Peanut Growers Association and a Gates County peanut farmer, said Collins brings more than 16 years-experience in agriculture, most recently serving as the director of collegiate relations and communication for Agriculture Future of America, where she was responsible for fostering and establishing relationships with more than 200 colleges and universities across the country.

Prior to joining AFA, Collins served as the education and marketing manager for AgCareers.com, where for more than a decade, she designed and managed a variety of student outreach initiatives as well as corporate training efforts.

Ashley Collins (Credit: North Carolina Peanut Growers Association)

“I am thrilled to serve the producers of one of North Carolina’s most iconic commodities and look forward to an exciting future, as the peanut industry is experiencing many advancements in production, research, innovation and consumer demand,” Collins said.

“I am also honored and humbled to follow the tenure of Mr. Bob Sutter, who has successfully led the Association for nearly 30 years and to have the opportunity to learn from him before his official retirement, “ she added.

Collins is a graduate of North Carolina  State University, with a Bachelor of Science in Agricultural Education, as well as a graduate of North Carolina A&T State University with a Master of Science in Agricultural Education. She serves on the North Carolina FFA Foundation Board, and the NC State College of Agriculture and Life Sciences Alumni and Friends Society and is currently a member of the inaugural Palmetto LEAF leadership class.  Ashley and her husband, Guy, live in Bailey, N.C. Guy Collins serves as the North Carolina State University Extension cotton specialist.