HARRISBURG, Pa. – The Board of Directors of the Pennsylvania Dairymen’s Association has appointed Patrick Carney as the new executive director of the organization, effective August 17.
Carney brings award-winning marketing expertise and multi-disciplinary executive leadership and a deep understanding of the dairy industry to the role of executive director. Throughout his career he has developed and executed integrated marketing and business strategies that have elevated brand visibility, strengthened stakeholder engagement, driven sustainable organizational growth and increased consumer demand for dairy products.
In this new role, he will lead the Association in advancing its mission to support dairy farmers, advance the Association’s popular milkshake operations where “every shake supports a cause” to fund widespread philanthropic initiatives, promote the value of dairy across the Commonwealth, and strengthen the organization’s impact. He will oversee state-wide operations, guide stra-tegic initiatives, strengthen industry partnerships, expand the Association’s brand and outreach, and position the organization for continued growth and long-term success. He will also lead the Association’s efforts at the Pennsylvania Farm Show.
“We are thrilled to welcome Patrick to the Pennsylvania Dairymen’s Association as our new executive director and look forward to the innovation, strategic vision and leadership he will bring to our organization,” said Board President Glenn Gorrell. “Following a thoughtful search process, our Board unanimously agreed that Carney is the right leader to guide us into our next chapter. His passion for our mission, extensive industry experience, collaborative leadership style, award-winning marketing expertise, vision and deep understanding of our industry make him uniquely positioned to build on our strong foundation and drive continued growth and success.
“Carney will be a tremendous asset not only to our organization and loyal customers, but also to Penn- sylvania’s world-class dairy industry and the Commonwealth as a whole. As we prepare for the upcoming PA Farm Show and other exciting initiatives on the horizon, we are confident that Carney will elevate our iconic, famous milkshake brand across the state, strengthen our partnerships, and cham- pion the needs of our dairy industry. We are excited to work alongside him as we expand our impact, embrace new opportunities, and continue delivering an exceptional product and experience to our loyal milkshake fans.”
Carney said: “I am honored to join such a highly respected organization that proudly represents Pennsylvania’s dairy industry and is home to one of the Commonwealth’s most iconic traditions—the Pennsylvania Dairymen’s Milkshake. I look forward to working alongside our dedicated staff, Board of Directors, industry partners, and dairy farm families to build on the Association’s remarkable legacy while advancing its mission for years to come.”
Prior to his new job at PDA, Carney served as vice president of marketing for the American Dairy Association North East. He has held key roles in the dairy industry for the last eight years and has dedicated his career to working for non-profit organizations.
The Association also announced that current Executive Director Dave Smith will remain with the organization as an advisor to ensure a smooth transition, to assist with planning for the 2027 Pennsylvania Farm Show and to provide continuity, support and institutional knowledge.
