Meet the Board of Directors
Meet the people behind the scenes, responsible for putting it all together.
Michele Amstutz, President
Spear-It 5k Coordinator, Fly-In Breakfast Coordinator
Michele was born and raised in the area and has been involved in the festival since 2008. Her favorite way to eat asparagus is grilled with garlic and olive oil. Michele enjoys every part of the National Asparagus Festival.
Jessica Woodworth, Vice President
Queen Coordinator, Pageant/Fundraiser Co-Coordinator, Info Tent Coordinator, Sponsorship Coordinator
Jessica was born and raised in the area and has been involved in the festival since 2012. Her favorite way to eat asparagus is deep fried with Boom Boom sauce. Jessica's favorite part of the festival is the Taste and Arts & Craft Fair where she gets inspiration for her creative side.
Susan Merten, Secretary
Royal Parade Co-Coordinator
Susan lives in the area and has been involved with the festival for 15 plus years. She has been on the Board since 2019. Her favorite event is the Royale Parade. Her favorite way to eat asparagus is grilled.
Jesse Rickard, Treasurer
Entertainment Tent Coordinator, Farm Tour Coordinator
Jesse has lived in the area since 1995 and
has been involved in the festival since 2012. His favorite way to eat asparagus is deep-fried. Jesse's favorite part of the
festival is seeing the local community come together to celebrate and support what makes our area so unique.
Mandy Achterhof
Website Coordinator, Pageant/Fundraiser Co-Coordinator
Mandy currently lives in Walkerville and has been involved with the festival since 2016. Mandy has been on the festival board since 2018. Her favorite way to eat asparagus is baked in the oven with olive oil. Mandy's favorite part of the festival is the parade.
Leroy Glover
Royale Parade Co-Coordinator
Leroy was born and raised in Oceana County and has been involved in the festival since 1984. His favorite way to eat asparagus is with smoked sausage. Leroy's favorite part of the festival is the parade because it is his pride and joy.
Gina Mead
Kidz Zone Coordinator, Family Fun Friday Coordinator
Gina currently lives in Hart and has worked as a festival volunteer for years. Gina has been on the festival board since 2017.
Lisa Newton
Taste of Asparagus Competition, Arts & Crafts Fair Coordinator, Food Vendors
Lisa has been on the festival board since 2017, but has supported the festival for a number years. Lisa has made her own asparagus soaps and other unique products that have only been available for purchase at the festival.
If you are interested in working with or joining the National Asparagus Festival Board, please send us a message.
For any general questions about the festival contact us at: