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Bonnie Johnson
February 16, 2026
Media ArticleThe American Seed Trade Association (ASTA) serves as the leading voice for crop biotechnology advocacy and regulation. The association expands its leadership team to strengthen its portfolio with new resources and expertise.
ASTA welcomes Collin Cisco as Director of State Government Affairs and Benjamin Rietmann as Director of International Programs and Policy.
As Director of State Government Affairs, Cisco works with the government affairs team to develop and implement strategies that advance ASTA’s state policy goals. He coordinates engagement with member companies and partners to ensure a unified industry voice. Cisco comes from the Illinois Soybean Association, where he manages federal and state advocacy efforts as Farm Policy Manager. His first day with the ASTA is February 16.
Rietmann leads ASTA’s programs across five continents to promote U.S. seed exports and address tariff and non-tariff trade barriers. He previously worked as an International Trade Specialist at the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Foreign Agricultural Service, focusing on mitigating regulatory obstacles for U.S. agricultural exports. He joins ASTA on February 9.
ASTA also promotes Dr. Samuel Crowell to Vice President for Science, Trade, and Global Affairs and Dr. Martha Malapi to Senior Director of Seed Health and Trade.
“ASTA is thrilled to welcome Collin and Ben, whose deep expertise in state policy and international trade strengthens our ability to advocate for the seed industry,” says Andy LaVigne, President and CEO of ASTA. “We’re equally proud to recognize Sam and Martha’s outstanding leadership, whose contributions elevate our global partnerships, seed health initiatives, and international policy priorities. Together, these additions and promotions position ASTA to better serve our members and advance an innovative, resilient future for the American seed industry.”
In his new role, Dr. Crowell will lead ASTA’s strategic engagement across three pillars: plant breeding sciences, trade and international seed movement, and global partnerships. He will work closely with members and partners to drive domestic and international policies that support the success of the U.S. seed industry.
Dr. Malapi will continue to lead critical seed health initiatives, guiding ASTA’s strategic priorities and helping members address emerging challenges in the global seed movement. She will bring technical expertise, collaborative leadership, and a commitment to strengthening the U.S. seed industry.
Photo by: www.betterseed.org
