One of the great things about PSPA is the legacy of innovation and sustainability in agriculture since 1785.  We carry on that tradition today, standing on the shoulders of those who have been leaders and members for over two centuries.

We recently received this letter from Walter Wurster, former President, Vice-President, and Treasurer of PSPA.

“I have had a wonderful membership with the Society since 1996 and served as President & Vice-President for a year each and then being the Treasurer for 14 years. However, I turned 90 in February and have been unable to attend meeting for the last 4 years.

Therefore, I feel that it is time to cancel my membership. I wish the Society to continue its great programs  and I have enjoyed getting to know and become friends with a variety of interesting and talented members over the years.

President Jessica McAtamney said this to Mr. Wurster at a presentation also attended by his wife and son at the Union League on Thursday, April 3, 2025. “Well, Walter, we are not going to let you cancel your membership.  The Executive Committee decided today to make you a LIFE MEMBER…and further, we would like to present you with the Society Medal to recognize your contribution to PSPA and to the agriculture industry in general.”

Wurster thanked the Society and once again repeated his good feeling about being a part of it.

Also, recently retired New Jersey Secretary of Agriculture Douglas Fisher received the Society Medal in honor of his public service and his contribution to the agriculture and food industry in New Jersey. Fisher was the Secretary from 2019 until he retired.Ann Dorsett accepted the Medal in his absence.

“Since 2009, Secretary Fisher has been a steadfast advocate for the Garden State’s agricultural community,” said Governor Phil Murphy. “From expanding agritourism to combating food insecurity, Secretary Fisher has dedicated his career to preserving New Jersey’s agricultural roots, while exemplifying a sincere commitment to this state and serving the public. I wish him nothing but the best and congratulate him for all he has accomplished at the Department of Agriculture.”

We thank Doug and Walter for their support of PSPA and for the agriculture and food industry in the course of their service to the industry and the Society.