In a significant development for the homebrewing community, the American Homebrewers Association (AHA) has successfully concluded its inaugural board election following its transition to independent 501(c)(6) and 501(c)(3) organizational structures. This landmark event saw AHA members elect four new directors from a competitive field of candidates, ushering in a new era for the association. The newly elected board members, Jen Blair, Stephanie Butler, Jen Pereira, and Jeff Whelpley, will each serve a three-year term, joining existing board members Shawna Cormier, Drew Beechum, and Gregory Roskopf. This diverse group is poised to guide the AHA’s strategic direction and foster continued growth within the vibrant world of home fermentation.
The election process, which commenced earlier this year, saw an initial pool of 28 nominees narrowed down to a slate of 10 distinguished individuals. The final selection by AHA members reflects a robust engagement with the association’s democratic processes and a keen interest in shaping its future leadership. The results were officially announced in March, culminating a period of anticipation and active participation from the dedicated AHA membership.
A New Chapter in Governance and Independence
The recent election is particularly noteworthy given the AHA’s recent organizational restructuring. Previously operating under a different governance model, the association’s successful transition to independent 501(c)(6) (membership organization) and 501(c)(3) (supporting organization, the A-HA Foundation) status marks a pivotal moment. This independence allows the AHA to pursue its mission with greater autonomy and flexibility, potentially opening new avenues for fundraising, partnerships, and program development. The election of a new board signifies the formal establishment of this independent governance structure, entrusting a fresh set of leaders with the stewardship of the organization.
The newly elected board members bring a wealth of experience and diverse perspectives to the AHA. Jen Blair, Stephanie Butler, Jen Pereira, and Jeff Whelpley were chosen for their commitment to homebrewing, their leadership capabilities, and their understanding of the needs and aspirations of the homebrewing community. Their collective expertise is expected to contribute significantly to the AHA’s ongoing efforts to promote and advocate for homebrewing at local, national, and international levels.
Formal Seating and Future Vision
The official seating of the new AHA Board of Directors will take place on June 20, 2026, at the AHA’s 2026 annual meeting. This significant gathering will be held in Asheville, North Carolina, coinciding with Homebrew Con, the association’s premier annual member event. Homebrew Con serves as a central hub for homebrewers, offering educational sessions, competitions, and networking opportunities, making it the ideal venue for the formal inauguration of the new leadership team. This timing underscores the board’s commitment to being directly engaged with the membership and the broader homebrewing culture.
The AHA Board Chair, Shawna Cormier, expressed profound optimism regarding the election results and the future trajectory of the association. "The work started by the AHA Founding Board to bring the association to a new future has been impressive to say the least," Cormier stated. "With our new elected board members, we are positioned to help the AHA grow for generations. We look forward to bringing AHA’s vision of ‘a homebrewer in every neighborhood and a homebrew club in every community’ to life." This vision encapsulates the AHA’s core mission to foster a widespread and accessible homebrewing culture, emphasizing community, education, and the sheer joy of crafting one’s own beverages.
Appreciation for Service and Dedication
The AHA also extended its sincere gratitude to all candidates who participated in this year’s election and to the members who actively cast their votes, highlighting the democratic spirit that underpinned the process. Crucially, the association recognized the invaluable contributions of its departing board members, Sandy Cockerham and Gary Glass. As Founding Board members, their dedication was instrumental in navigating the complex transition to independent status and laying the groundwork for the AHA’s future. Their leadership and commitment have left an indelible mark on the organization, ensuring a strong foundation for the incoming board.
A Legacy of Advocacy and Community Building
Founded in 1978, the American Homebrewers Association has a long-standing history of championing the rights and interests of homebrewers. The association’s commitment is built upon core values of Community, Education, Joy, and Volunteerism. Through its various initiatives, the AHA provides a wealth of resources to its members, including the esteemed Zymurgy® magazine, access to award-winning recipes validated by the National Homebrew Competition, a comprehensive online resource hub at HomebrewersAssociation.org, and exclusive member benefits such as AHA Member Deals and annual recognition awards.
The dual structure of the AHA as both a 501(c)(6) membership organization and a 501(c)(3) supporting entity (the A-HA Foundation) allows it to serve a broad spectrum of needs within the homebrewing ecosystem. The 501(c)(6) arm focuses on member services, advocacy, and community building, while the 501(c)(3) foundation can engage in charitable and educational activities, further enhancing the AHA’s impact. This strategic organizational design positions the AHA to effectively advance its mission and support the continued growth and evolution of homebrewing.
The Significance of Independent Governance
The transition to independent 501(c)(6) and 501(c)(3) status, and the subsequent election of a new board, carries significant implications for the homebrewing community. Greater autonomy allows the AHA to be more agile in responding to evolving legislative landscapes, industry trends, and member needs. This independence can also unlock new funding opportunities through grants and donations, enabling the AHA to expand its educational programs, advocacy efforts, and support for homebrew clubs and events.
For homebrewers, this means a potentially stronger and more influential voice in matters that affect their hobby, from regulatory issues to access to ingredients and equipment. The increased capacity for development and outreach fostered by independent governance is expected to translate into enhanced resources, more robust advocacy, and a more vibrant and connected global homebrewing community. The AHA’s commitment to its founding principles, coupled with its new independent structure and elected leadership, signals a promising future for homebrewing enthusiasts worldwide. The organization’s continued dedication to fostering "a homebrewer in every neighborhood and a homebrew club in every community" is now bolstered by a strengthened governance framework and a renewed mandate from its engaged membership. The success of this inaugural election is not just a procedural milestone; it is a testament to the vitality and commitment of the homebrewing community itself, and a clear indicator of the AHA’s enduring importance.
