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Karen Gefvert will direct and oversee external communications for DBA and Edge government affairs, working alongside the policy and communications teams on local, regional and federal policy.

Gefvert spent the last 11 years with Wisconsin Farm Bureau Federation, most recently serving as the innovation and engagement strategist. In this role, she collaborated with their governmental relations and public relations departments to advocate for and engage with the organization’s membership. She also previously served as executive director of governmental relations.

“We are thrilled to have Karen join our team,” Trotter said. “Her experience working in agricultural policy in the Upper Midwest make her a tremendous asset for our members as we champion common-sense policy in Madison and D.C.”

Gefvert started her career with Tyson Foods in Berryville, Ark., before working as an agriculture education teacher and FFA advisor at Janesville Parker High School in Janesville, Wis.

“I am excited to join DBA and Edge as director of public affairs,” Gefvert said. “Both groups have strong reputations as champions for the dairy farmer, and I hope to continue building on that foundation.”

DBA and Edge advocate for farmers and allied businesses on governmental policy — DBA at the state level in Wisconsin and Edge at the federal level — and provide other services. DBA’s members are in Wisconsin, and Edge’s members are located throughout the Midwest as part of the third largest dairy cooperative in the U.S.