The American Homebrewers Association (AHA) has successfully concluded its inaugural board of directors election since its transition to an independent entity, marking a significant turning point in its organizational history. This pivotal election, held in March, saw AHA members cast their votes for four new board members from an initial pool of 28 nominees, who were then narrowed down to a slate of 10 distinguished candidates. The outcome introduces a fresh wave of leadership poised to guide the association into its next chapter.
The four newly elected directors – Jen Blair, Stephanie Butler, Jen Pereira, and Jeff Whelpley – will each serve a three-year term. They will join the existing board members: Shawna Cormier, Drew Beechum, and Gregory Roskopf, bringing a blend of seasoned expertise and new perspectives to the governing body. This election signifies a critical step in the AHA’s evolution, underscoring its commitment to member governance and a decentralized operational model.
The official seating of the new board is scheduled to occur at the AHA’s 2026 annual meeting. This significant event will take place on June 20, 2026, in Asheville, North Carolina, coinciding with Homebrew Con, the association’s premier annual gathering for its members. This timing underscores the importance of the board’s role in shaping the future of the homebrewing community.
The AHA extended its profound appreciation to all individuals who participated in the election process, both as candidates and as voters. The robust engagement from the membership highlights the community’s vested interest in the association’s direction and governance.
A special acknowledgment and heartfelt gratitude were extended to the departing board members, Sandy Cockerham and Gary Glass. As founding members of the board during the association’s transition to independence, their dedication and foresight have been instrumental in laying the groundwork for the AHA’s future. Their contributions have been pivotal in shaping the organization’s strategic direction and ensuring a smooth transition into its new independent structure.
A New Era of Leadership and Governance
The recent election represents more than just a routine board transition; it is a testament to the AHA’s commitment to democratic principles and member-driven leadership. The process, which began with a broad field of 28 nominees, underwent a rigorous selection process before reaching the final slate of 10 candidates. This thorough vetting ensured that the membership had a diverse and highly qualified group of individuals from which to choose. The overwhelming participation in the voting process demonstrates a strong sense of ownership and engagement among AHA members.
The newly elected directors bring a wealth of experience and diverse backgrounds that will undoubtedly enrich the board’s deliberations. Jen Blair, Stephanie Butler, Jen Pereira, and Jeff Whelpley are poised to contribute significantly to the AHA’s ongoing mission. Their three-year terms will provide continuity while also introducing new ideas and approaches to address the evolving landscape of homebrewing and craft beverage appreciation.
A Look Back at the Transition
The AHA’s journey to becoming a newly independent 501(c)(6) membership organization and a 501(c)(3) supporting organization (the A-HA Foundation) has been a carefully orchestrated endeavor. This strategic restructuring aimed to enhance the association’s ability to serve its members and advocate for the homebrewing community more effectively. The establishment of an independent board, with direct election by members, is a cornerstone of this new operational framework.
The transition process, which culminated in this historic election, involved extensive planning and consultation. The AHA leadership recognized the importance of member representation in shaping the organization’s future. By empowering members to elect their board, the AHA reinforces its core values of Community, Education, Joy, and Volunteerism.
Reflections from the Board Chair
Shawna Cormier, the AHA Board Chair, shared her perspective on this significant milestone. She emphasized the foundational work laid by the association’s founding board members and expressed confidence in the newly elected directors’ ability to propel the AHA forward.
"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 enduring commitment to fostering a vibrant and accessible homebrewing culture across the nation. The new board will be tasked with strategizing and implementing initiatives that support this ambitious goal, from educational programs and advocacy efforts to community-building events.
The Impact of Independent Governance
The move towards an independent 501(c)(6) and 501(c)(3) structure, coupled with member-elected governance, has several implications for the homebrewing community. As a 501(c)(6) organization, the AHA can more directly engage in lobbying and advocacy efforts on behalf of homebrewers, addressing legislative and regulatory issues that may affect the hobby. The 501(c)(3) status of the A-HA Foundation allows for tax-deductible donations to support broader charitable and educational initiatives within the craft beverage community.
This dual structure provides a robust framework for the AHA to pursue its mission from multiple angles. The independence from external oversight bodies that may have previously influenced its operations allows the AHA to be more agile and responsive to the needs and desires of its membership. This autonomy is crucial for navigating the dynamic landscape of the craft beverage industry and for championing the interests of homebrewers.
A Legacy of Dedication: Honoring Departing Members
The contributions of Sandy Cockerham and Gary Glass as founding board members cannot be overstated. Their leadership during the critical transition period was essential in establishing the organizational infrastructure and guiding principles that will serve the AHA for years to come. Their commitment to the principles of homebrewing and their dedication to representing the newly independent AHA have left an indelible mark on the association. Their willingness to step down after laying this crucial groundwork exemplifies their selfless service to the community.
Looking Ahead: Homebrew Con and Future Initiatives
The 2026 Homebrew Con in Asheville, North Carolina, will not only serve as the venue for the official seating of the new board but also as a platform for the AHA to engage with its members and outline future strategic priorities. Homebrew Con is renowned for its educational seminars, brewing competitions, and opportunities for enthusiasts to connect and share their passion. The event provides an ideal setting for the new board to introduce themselves to the broader membership and to begin fostering collaboration on upcoming projects.
The AHA’s commitment to providing resources such as Zymurgy® magazine, access to award-winning recipes from the National Homebrew Competition, and a comprehensive online platform at HomebrewersAssociation.org, will continue to be central to its member value proposition. The new board will undoubtedly explore innovative ways to enhance these offerings and introduce new programs that cater to the evolving interests of homebrewers, from beginner enthusiasts to experienced craft beverage artisans.
Understanding the AHA’s Structure
Founded in 1978, the American Homebrewers Association has a long-standing history of supporting and promoting homebrewing. Its core values—Community, Education, Joy, and Volunteerism—continue to guide its operations. The dual structure as a 501(c)(6) membership organization and a 501(c)(3) supporting organization allows the AHA to engage in a broad spectrum of activities.
The 501(c)(6) status, often referred to as a "business league," enables the AHA to advocate for the interests of its members within the industry. This can include lobbying efforts, participation in trade associations, and working to shape public policy related to homebrewing.
The 501(c)(3) status, typically associated with public charities and foundations, allows the A-HA Foundation to pursue educational and charitable purposes. This can involve funding research, providing scholarships, supporting community outreach programs, and promoting the responsible enjoyment of homebrewed beverages.
This organizational design provides the AHA with a multifaceted approach to serving the homebrewing community. It allows for both direct advocacy on behalf of its members and the ability to engage in broader philanthropic and educational endeavors that benefit the entire craft beverage ecosystem.
Call to Action: Engaging with the AHA
The AHA encourages all homebrewers and craft beverage enthusiasts to learn more about its committees and the board’s ongoing work. Information regarding volunteer opportunities and ways to get involved can be found on the AHA website. Membership in the AHA not only provides access to exclusive benefits and resources but also supports the continued growth and advocacy for the homebrewing hobby. The association’s invitation to "Join us" is a testament to its belief in the collective power of its community to shape the future of homebrewing.
The successful conclusion of this historic election marks a new chapter for the American Homebrewers Association. With a newly elected, member-chosen board at its helm and a robust organizational structure, the AHA is well-positioned to continue its mission of fostering a thriving homebrewing culture for generations to come. The dedication of its members and leadership signals a bright future for this vital segment of the craft beverage world.
