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Key Points:
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Yuan-Tai Hung, Ph.D., joins IFEEDER as senior manager of research, bringing experience from both industry and academia to lead science-based research and education initiatives.
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Marisa Halbstein returns to the AFIA as marketing and program development specialist after interning with the association in 2023. She will be supporting communications, events and IFEEDER outreach.
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Both team members strengthen AFIA's and IFEEDER's ability to deliver research, communications and engagement that support the future of the U.S. animal food industry.
The Institute for Feed Education and Research (IFEEDER) and American Feed Industry Association (AFIA) are excited to welcome two new staff members who will support both organizations in their respective roles. Yuan-Tai Hung, Ph.D., joins the IFEEDER team as the senior manager of research, and Marisa Halbstein joins the communications team as the marketing and program development specialist.
In the newly created position of senior manager of research, Hung will lead efforts to advance IFEEDER's mission through science-based research and education, collaborating with AFIA members and industry stakeholders. His experience spans both industry and academia, including roles with Leader Nutrition in Taiwan, the University of Minnesota's Integrated Animal Systems Biology team and Devenish Nutrition North America. Hung holds a doctorate in swine nutrition and digestive physiology from the University of Minnesota, a master's degree in poultry nutrition from National Chung Hsing University and a bachelor's degree in animal science from Tunghai University.
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"IFEEDER is thrilled to welcome Yuan-Tai Hung to the team. With his experience in swine, poultry and pet nutrition, Yuan-Tai brings a wealth of knowledge to this role," said Lara Moody, IFEEDER executive director. "His expertise in animal nutrition research, coupled with an ability to translate science into practical solutions, will strengthen IFEEDER's ability to deliver impactful insights across the agricultural value chain."
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The AFIA also welcomes Marisa Halbstein as its marketing and program development specialist, replacing the position recently vacated by Taylor Lekin. In this role, she will lead marketing for AFIA's educational and networking events and work closely with the IFEEDER team to communicate the importance of investing in the future of the animal food industry. Halbstein previously completed communications internships with the AFIA and Animal Agriculture Alliance in 2023, supporting various projects for the communications team. Before rejoining the association, Halbstein served as a graduate assistant with the Wedgworth Leadership Institute for Agriculture and Natural Resources at the University of Florida, managing communications and seminar logistics. She earned both a master's degree and a bachelor's degree in agricultural education and communication, with a specialization in agricultural communications, from the University of Florida.
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"We are excited to welcome Marisa back to the AFIA, this time as a full-time member of our fast-paced communications team," said Cornelia Poku, AFIA's director of communications. "Her time as an intern gave her a strong foundation in our communications work, and now she brings valuable experience and a fresh perspective. We look forward to seeing her talents shine as she supports our events, member engagement and IFEEDER's outreach efforts."
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For more information, visit AFIA's staff directory.
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