RISE Executive Departs

Frank Gasperini, director of government relations for Responsible Industries for a Sound Environment (RISE), is leaving the organization. Gasperini will become executive vice president of the National Council of Agricultural Employers (NCAE).

"This was not an easy decision as I truly believe in the benefits and values I have been privileged to advocate for, and many of you are personal friends in addition to being business associates," Gasperini said in a note to association members. "After much consideration I have decided the challenge of leading my new association, the National Council of Agricultural Employers (NCAE) into a new administration and congress is too exciting to pass-up."

Gasperini has been involved with RISE since it began in 1991, first as a volunteer for 10 years, eventually serving as issues committee chair. He joined the staff in 2001 as director of state issues, then moving on to his current position.

"I am so pleased Frank has been chosen to lead an association. He has been preparing for several years, having received his Certified Association Executive designation while on staff," said Allen James, president of RISE. "He will be an excellent association CEO. We wish him well following his departure Aug. 31." 

In his new role at NCAE, Gasperini will be both chief staff executive of a small Washington, D.C., association and chief advocacy leader for its members and coalitions of other groups, focusing mostly on immigration and agricultural labor issue policy. Although he starts Sept. 1, he will attend the RISE annual meeting, which is Sept. 2-5 in Washington, D.C.