The Washington State Cheesemakers Association (WASCA) is proud to announce they have selected a new Executive Director – Courtney Johnson.
Established in 2015, The Washington State Cheesemaker’s Association (WASCA) was formed to support cheesemakers, and to promote the continued growth and awareness of artisan cheeses in Washington. Washington State’s cheese industry is vibrant with more than 50 licensed cheesemakers, who produce a diverse style and selection of cheese from goat, sheep, and cow’s milk. 2020 has been an unprecedented year of challenge for many artisan producers and nothing is more important than our focus on and support of our state’s cheesemakers. It is our pleasure to welcome Courtney to WASCA and we are excited about her passion and enthusiasm to help support WA Cheesemakers.
Courtney has been a member of the Washington State cheese family since she became a cheesemonger in 2015. Prior to stepping behind the cheese counter, Courtney was on an academic track at The University of Arizona and UC Berkley learning and teaching. She earned a bachelor’s degree in Journalism and both a master’s degree and PhD in German. It was while working at Metropolitan Market and currently at PCC Community Markets, that Courtney found her true calling and embraced the cheese world. She shares her considerable cheese knowledge through cheese education classes, her blog – The PhCheese – and by volunteering at industry events.
Courtney also promotes local cheeses and the stories of cheesemakers daily with her customers at the cheese counter. Courtney is an ACS Certified Cheese Professional and has competed twice in the Cheesemonger Invitational in San Francisco, winning second place this past January! Courtney brings with her strong communication, writing and organizational skills, along with a deep passion for WA cheese and an admiration for WA cheesemakers. Courtney is thrilled to have this opportunity to serve WA cheesemakers, to share their stories, and to further educate the region’s and nation’s cheese lovers about the great cheeses of WA State.
WASCA is a member-supported, non-profit 501(c)(6) association with membership open to cheesemakers, industry professionals, and fellow cheese lovers everywhere. Learn more by visiting our website at www.washingtoncheese.org. Courtney will officially be starting in her role on August 17th, 2020. You can contact her at washingtoncheese@gmail.com.