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The USBG Nominating Committee is thrilled to introduce three exceptional candidates to the slate for this year’s Board of Directors election! Following a comprehensive selection process, we are proud to present these individuals for the upcoming 2025-2027 term. Each candidate brings a unique skill set, fresh perspectives, and complementary strengths that will greatly enhance the Board’s collective vision and capabilities.
We are pleased to announce that Joey has been slated to serve a second consecutive term on the Board. Including a returning Board member brings valuable continuity and stability to the organization. Joey’s experience and knowledge from his previous term allows him to contribute with deeper insight into the Board’s priorities, ongoing projects, and organizational challenges. Having someone who can provide historical context and learned perspective enhances decision-making processes and fosters stronger, more consistent leadership. Joey’s continued service will also be instrumental in mentoring new Board members, ensuring a smooth transition, and helping to maintain our focus on long-term strategic goals.
Candidacy Statement
Hello all! My name is Joey Fredrickson, and I am currently serving as a National Board Director and National Secretary of the USBG. My journey with USBG has been a profound source of personal and professional growth, and it’s truly an honor to be considered for the slate ballot as we continue our mission together.
For many years, I’ve championed USBG’s mission to unite and elevate the bar industry through education, community, and advocacy. My role in both Society Lounge and USBG’s programs has always aimed at bringing positive change and strengthening community ties, and I am committed to expanding this impact within the organization.
With a background in hospitality management and community engagement, I bring a deep understanding of organizational growth and diversity initiatives. As a founder and co-owner of Society Lounge, I spearheaded programs such as Woman Crush Wednesdays, promoting diversity and community awareness. I’ve also leveraged my experience as Chair of the NCC to foster inclusivity and representation, bridging connections between the Chapter Leaders and National Board.
If selected, my goal is to represent and amplify the voices of all members, ensuring that our efforts reflect their diverse perspectives. I am especially passionate about supporting young leaders’ mental health and resilience and am eager to work alongside our new Executive Director to drive advocacy initiatives that advance USBG’s mission.
Thank you for considering my candidacy for the slate ballot. I am honored to give back to an organization and industry I deeply love and respect. With your support, I look forward to serving USBG and helping provide new opportunities for the inspiring members of our community.
Adding a new Board member to serve a first term brings fresh perspectives and innovation, which are essential for growth and adaptability. New voices help introduce diverse ideas, question established processes, and spark discussions that might not emerge otherwise. Liz's addition brings valuable new energy, sparking creative solutions and broadening the Board’s thinking. With her unique viewpoint, Liz is well-positioned to address emerging member needs and industry changes, offering fresh approaches to problem-solving and innovation. Her enthusiasm complements the experience of current Board members, creating a dynamic and balanced leadership team that combines continuity with forward-looking ideas.
Candidacy Statement
My name is Liz Pirnat. I am the Head Spirits Instructor for Napa Valley Wine Academy and a member of the Cleveland USBG Chapter since 2019. I am honored to be considered for the slate for the USBG Board of Directors.
I have been in the wine industry for over 10 years and focused on wine and spirits education for the last 9 years. I love working with students to deepen their knowledge and see education improve their sales and employment opportunities.
Besides my commitment to education in the wine and spirits industry, I have developed partnerships and engaged in legislative advocacy, as a volunteer and as an elected board of education member.
If selected, my goals will be to build upon the amazing USBG community we have with partnerships, advocacy, and communication.
My shared commitment to education with USBG is what drives me to run for the Board of Directors. I look forward to helping our community grow with my service on the board. Thank you for your consideration of my candidacy.
Geo brings a valuable blend of experience and fresh perspective to the slate. Having served one year on the Board after stepping up to fill a vacancy, he has already demonstrated a commitment to our organization and an understanding of its dynamics. This upcoming three-year term marks his first elected position, allowing Geo to leverage his prior insights while also bringing a renewed focus to this role. Geo’s familiarity with our operations, coupled with his dedication, positions him to make meaningful contributions and advocate for member interests effectively. As a candidate, Geo embodies the spirit of engagement and responsiveness that is crucial for our continued growth and success.
Candidacy Statement
Greetings members! My name is Geo Thompson and I am running to serve on the National Board of Directors. I am currently active in an expiring term on the Board. I was called into action this past year to fill a vacant director position, and it has been an exciting opportunity and challenge to work on behalf of our members and organization.
I am honored to be considered by our esteemed Nominating Committee members to be up for election for a full term, and I welcome the memberships’ consideration.
Prior to this year, I served as vice-chair of the National Council of Chapters for two terms which allowed me to act as a non-voting member on the National Board. This ex-officio role provided for an easier transition into the role I currently serve on the board and gave me a downhill ramp to hit the ground running when I was appointed.
I joined the USBG as a member of the Boston chapter in 2015. During that time, I served as VP and then as President. My time serving on the board of a relatively smaller chapter has provided me with a unique perspective to the greater organizational structure. I continue to be an advocate for the needs of those local chapters who find themselves struggling to hit minimum membership numbers and working within a smaller budget.
I have also been very active in many committees and board level task forces including MemCom, EdCom, Conference and BarSummit task forces and most recently with the newly formed Advocacy committee (which we all are really excited to finally have in action). This past month through my participation in programs in Panama and Puerto Rico, I was invited to sit on the International Bartenders Association’s Global Education Committee.
Most folks describe me as a thoughtful, caring voice within the USBG, and my ability to analyze and present both sides of an issue has been noted in influencing how others consider important votes while in session.
This past term we transitioned from the long term leadership of Aaron Gregory Smith and began the search for our new Executive Director. In Bo Shuff we have found the leader for the next step of growth in our organization, and I hope to stand with him as we continue to build on our strong foundation and chart new territory on what we can be in the future.
My vision for the organization is to continue to build value into our membership through more national driven programs and support, while encouraging the individuality of our local chapters. The end goal is to further our exposure as THE leader of long-term community within our industry.
Thank you for considering my candidacy on this year's ballot and if elected, or not, I will continue to serve this organization to the fullest of my abilities.
Why This Slate?
Each of these candidates offers a distinctive set of skills and a shared commitment to the USBG mission. Together, they will bring a balance of perspectives, innovation, and experience that strengthens the Board as a whole. We look forward to the ways their insights will complement each other and contribute to our organization’s goals.
What’s Next?
USBG members can vote from November 1st through November 15th, 2024. This election is a fantastic opportunity for members to shape the future of USBG by selecting leaders who represent a broad range of skills and ideas.
We encourage all members to participate, celebrate our candidates, and make your voice heard in this exciting election season!
Your Vote. Your Voice. Your USBG.