New Executive Director for PVMI
PVMI, the Potato Variety Management Institute is a 501(c)3, a not-for-profit organization, that was founded by the Potato Commissions of Idaho, Oregon, and Washington in 2005. Since 2006, it has been run by Jeanne Debons, the Executive Director with guidance from the nine-member PVMI Board. In July this year Jenny Durrin Gentry was appointed to replace Debons as Executive Director.
PVMI’s main mission is to promote new potato varieties that arise from the Tri-State Potato Research and Breeding Program by providing information regarding variety features and management practices to growers and thereby maximizing the success of the varieties.
Ms. Gentry has been the Director of the Seed Potato Germplasm Program at the University of Idaho for the last 6 years. Prior to that she managed a nematode laboratory at the same institution. Gentry is experienced in the industry and practiced in the art of providing services to potato growers. She has worked with the Tri-State Potato Research and Breeding Program and Pacific Northwest Potato Industry to establish and provide disease free potato germplasm.
Gentry started working with PVMI full time in October alongside Debons for the first four months. The handover period ends January 31, 2023, and at that time, Debons will retire after over 16 years at the job. “It has been my honor to be of service to the potato industry. PVMI filled a gap that no one realized had existed prior and I am certain Jenny will do a great job of continuing that service.” Debons said.
New Contact Details for PVMI
PVMI, Inc PO Box 9729 Moscow, ID 83843 Tel: (208) 242-2644 Email: jennypvmi@gmail.com