California Table Grape Commission adds director of community service, health programs

The California Table Grape Commission has hired Jackie Nakashian as its newly created director of community service and health programs.

Nakashian will develop, implement and manage community service programs such as the grower-funded scholarship program, while creating partnerships with other community service organizations, according to a news release. The commission said Nakashian will manage its health outreach and research programs.

Nakashian is a registered dietitian, earning a certificate of advanced study in dietetics from California State University, Fresno. She also holds bachelor’s degrees in political science and in human nutrition sciences, dietetics.

The commission said Nakashian brings experience in community nutrition program development and expansion from her time as a program manager with the Central California Food Bank, as well as experience in the agriculture industry from work with the California Apple Commission.

“We are very excited for Jackie to join the commission team,” said Ian LeMay, incoming commission president. “Jackie’s experience in developing and implementing food assistance programs, and with her experience as a registered dietitian, will be a great benefit to commission and industry programs.”