Our Staff

John has an extensive and diverse agriculture background, including agronomic sales and service, information management, university education, farming, and nonprofit leadership. He brings expertise in engaging farmers and the food and farming value chain in understanding and implementing sustainable farming practices as well as documenting and demonstrating sustainability improvements along the way. Most recently the Sr. Director of the Soil Health Partnership, John is eager to help PSA move forward its strategy and operations.

“I like the potential PSA has to make a real difference in the way we think about farm and food sustainability,” said Mesko. “So much good work has already been done in setting up the organization, I’m grateful to be joining PSA at this exciting time.”

Natalie is the Program Manager at the Potato Sustainability Alliance, collaborating with value chain partners across North America to evaluate production practices and track key performance indicators for sustainability reporting. Building off a bachelor’s degree in environmental science, Natalie’s passion for sustainable agriculture stemmed from an inclusive experience conducting soil analysis, managing crop production, vermicomposting, and beekeeping at a community farm. Ultimately driven by data, Natalie is eager to help measure and communicate the impact of their members’ sustainability efforts.

Teresa Sokolowski brings over 25 years of administrative and office management expertise to the Potato Sustainability Alliance team, along with a strong passion for numbers. Recently relocated to South Carolina, she enjoys golfing in her free time. In her role, Teresa will oversee administrative tasks that support PSA’s expanding efforts and outreach to farmers, helping ensure the organization operates efficiently as it grows. She looks forward to connecting with all PSA members.

Jenna Cargile has over 14 years of experience in the marketing and events industry, driven by her passion for bringing people’s ideas to life for others to enjoy. She was key in organizing the inaugural Potato Sustainability Alliance Summer Symposium, demonstrating her commitment to creating impactful events. When she is not working, Jenna cherishes spending time with her husband and one-year-old son, who brings joy to her life every day.

Laura has provided contract web design and development services to non-profits and small businesses throughout the country for almost 20 years. She is a graduate of the University of Minnesota-Twin Cities with a degree in English, and also pursued continuing education in web design and development. Laura grew up on a dairy farm in western Minnesota, and that background launched her career in the non-profit sector working with sustainable agriculture and beginning farmers. She continues to support sustainable agriculture through her web work.