May 24th – WASHINGTON, D.C.— Philippe André, a current board member of The United Sommeliers Foundation, has been appointed as Treasurer on the Foundation’s Executive Board.
With over 15 years of experience in the wine industry, André has been an integral part of The USF’s growth, joining the board in the Summer of 2020. André is currently the Senior Business Development Manager at Folio Fine Wine Partners. André will be succeeding Christopher Blanchard, MS, co-founder of The Foundation who will be moving to the newly formed Advisory Board after three dedicated years of service.
Jessica Palatka, appointed in 2023 to The United Sommeliers Foundation Board has also been appointed as Secretary on the Executive Board. Ms. Palatka is the Chief Human Capital Officer (CHCO) for the Department of Commerce. As a member of the Senior Executive Service (SES), she is responsible for providing leadership, developing policies, and directing programs in all aspects of human resources and human capital management and administration for all 13 bureaus of the Department of Commerce, covering 55,000 employees located in all 50 states, every U.S. territory, and more than 86 countries.
Both appointments to the executive board are effective immediately.
The Foundation to date has awarded over $1 Million to their applicants and is continuing to provide financial aid to wine professionals in emergency situations beyond their control. To apply for aid, donate or learn more please visit www.unitedsommeliersfoundation.org.
About The United Sommeliers Foundation: The United Sommeliers Foundation is a 501(C)(3) charity whose mission is to provide resources and financial assistance to Sommeliers experiencing a pause or termination of employment due to circumstances beyond their control. The organization assists sommeliers nationwide and was founded by several of the industry’s leading experts with more than 100 years of combined experience and knowledge. The organization’s goal is to positively impact the wine industry and the sommelier community for years to come. Please visit www.unitedsommeliersfoundation.org for more.
