NWPCA Announces New Pallet Foundation Leadership and Fundraising Success

NWPCA Announces New Pallet Foundation Leadership and Fundraising Success

During its annual meeting in Napa, California, the National Wooden Pallet & Container Association (NWPCA) Board of Directors announced the appointment of new leadership for the Pallet Foundation, and experienced strong fundraising results supporting the Foundation’s ongoing mission. The announcement was made in conjunction with the 2025 Annual Leadership Conference (ALC), held March 26–28, 2025.

New Leadership Drives Vision Forward
Kathleen Dietrich of Commercial Lumber & Pallet was appointed Chair of the Pallet Foundation, with Larry Howell of Hinton Lumber Products named Vice Chair. The Executive Committee also includes Mike Saylor (NWPCA) as Treasurer and Brent McClendon (NWPCA) as Secretary.

“It’s an honor to help lead the Pallet Foundation at such a pivotal time,” said Dietrich. “Our work touches every corner of the wood packaging industry—from environmental stewardship to education and innovation. I’m excited to help shape a future that’s both sustainable and impactful.”

Foundation trustees include:
Carolyn Beach-Skinner, Clint Binley, Sukhi Brar, Chaille Brindley, Julie DeRoush, Mike Hachtman, Scott Harrington, Mitchell Kamps, Justin Karoly, Kurt Larsen, Bill MacCauley, Jordan Piland, Bill Schneider, Rob Trexler, Scott Vipond, Luke Wenner, Jeff Williams, Jimmy Wilson, Greg Wine, and Steve Yelland.

Auction Generates $238,000 to Support Foundation Programs
The annual Pallet Foundation Auction, a highlight of the ALC, raised $238,000 to support the Foundation’s vital research, education, and sustainability programs. The always popular Golf Tournament and the Wine Pairing Dinner on Tuesday evening also contributed to the success of this year’s fundraising efforts.

Commitment to Sustainability and Innovation
Under Chair Kathleen Dietrich’s leadership, the Foundation continues to advance key initiatives that underscore the environmental and economic value of wood packaging. These include the Nature’s Packaging campaign, the Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) and Environmental Product Declaration (EPD), and the USDA BioPreferred certification.

“These programs provide essential, science-based data that highlight the environmental benefits of wood packaging,” added Dietrich. “They help elevate our industry’s role in sustainability and support continued innovation.”

For more information on the Pallet Foundation projects and initiatives, visit https://palletfoundation.org.