Photo courtesy nofa.org
8/29/61–1/19/19
Enid started working for NOFA-VT in 1988. Over her 30 years leading NOFA, it has grown from 250 household members and 57 certified organic producers in 1990 to over 1,100 household members and 719 certified organic producers in 2017. She helped form the current structure including a 12-member board of which 50% are practicing farmers. By hiring talented staff and successfully obtaining funding, she has expanded NOFA to include multiple programs including organic certification, farmer services, agricultural education, and promotion of direct markets.
Because Enid is a respected leader, she has been able to bring together people from different perspectives to move the organic movement forward. During the forming of the National Organic Program, she helped to craft a program that worked for both Vermont scale farms and much bigger farms across the country. Enid also has worked locally, representing organic farmers at the statehouse to pass important legislation and bring awareness to and obtain funding for a variety of issues.
While having farmers obtain organic certification is the ultimate goal along the continuum of farming at NOFA-VT, Enid continually supports inclusivity. Certified organic farmers, farmers using some organic methods, and conventional farmers are all welcomed to learn together through round table discussions, on-farm workshops, and at the annual Winter Conference attended by over 1,000 farmers and gardeners.
Enid was instrumental in developing NOFA’s Farm Share Program to help make organic foods through the Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) model more accessible to low-income families. Through this program, the recipient’s share of organic produce is supported by other community CSA members, restaurants through an annual fundraiser, and corporate and individual donors.
As a true visionary, Enid has recognized needs and taken risks to develop programs such as the farm to school program before they were of national interest. This program connects children to farms through education and meals, as well as provides a market opportunity for farmers. Vermont is now seen as a leader in this movement.
Enid was a beloved coach, friend, parent to Lila and Eli, and wife to Harry Frank. She is remembered by all who knew her for her ready laughter, singing, and generous bear hugs.
The Agency of Agriculture, Food & Markets remembers Enid:
“I had the pleasure of working with Enid for over 10 years and she always had a smile and a hug each time we interacted. She did outstanding work for the agricultural industry throughout Vermont in her role as executive director of NOFA-VT.” – Diane Bothfeld
“The partnership with NOFA-VT, under the creative culture and leadership of Enid, has been a pleasure to engage. Enid was always a presence of light and lover of life. The world of local food feels a bit different and that a leader has been lost. Thankfully, the NOFA team is full of strong, capable, and innovative professionals that will continue the program collaborations and farmer relationships.” - Abbey Willard
“Enid’s compassion, radiating from her kind smiles and deep-felt hugs, inspired us all to really connect, care, and put forth sincere efforts towards bettering the local food system and our communities as a whole.” – Alissa Matthews
