Mary Fales named Winrock International’s Director of U.S. Agriculture
LITTLE ROCK, Ark. − July 13, 2026 − Winrock International has named Mary Fales as its new director of U.S. Agriculture, reflecting Winrock’s commitment to advancing resilient food systems, supporting agricultural innovation and expanding opportunity for farmers and rural communities across the U.S.
Fales joins Winrock with more than two decades of experience in sustainable agriculture, conservation and cross-sector partnerships. In her new role, she will help lead Winrock’s U.S. Agriculture strategy, working across the organization and leading the Wallace Center at Winrock International to expand the impact of programs that strengthen farm profitability, support natural resource stewardship and build more resilient regional food systems.
“As Winrock strengthens its commitment to resilient food systems, regenerative agriculture and thriving rural communities, Mary’s leadership will help us expand our impact and shape the future of this important work,” said Maqsoda Maqsodi, Winrock’s president and CEO. “She brings a deep understanding of the opportunities and challenges facing U.S. agriculture and proven ability to build the partnerships needed to deliver lasting results.”
Fales, whose areas of expertise include regenerative agriculture systems, conservation and water quality, and sustainability strategy and program design, said she was drawn to the opportunity to help guide Winrock’s next chapter in U.S. agriculture.
“This role presents an incredible opportunity to advance regenerative and resilient food systems — work that has been at the center of my career for more than 20 years,” Fales said. “I’m so excited to join Winrock as the organization expands partnerships, innovates and attracts new resources and investments in U.S. agriculture.”
Fales’s appointment comes as Winrock implements its 2026-2028 strategic plan and continues to build on its 40-year history of agricultural innovation rooted in Arkansas and the U.S. heartland. Through U.S. agriculture initiatives, Winrock works alongside farmers, communities, businesses and public-sector partners to strengthen regional food systems, support regenerative and conservation-based agriculture, improve land and water outcomes, and create new economic opportunities in rural communities.
Today, Winrock’s U.S.-focused agriculture work spans a range of priorities, including regenerative grazing and livestock systems, farmer-led soil and water conservation, regional food system development, sustainable market creation, and approaches that help producers navigate increasing environmental and economic pressures.
“Winrock’s roots in agriculture run deep, from our earliest work in Arkansas to decades of partnership with farmers and rural communities across the South, Midwest and beyond,” said Lucy Jodlowska, Winrock’s senior director of U.S. Programs. “As we implement our 2026-2028 strategic plan, Mary will help us grow our foundational work, with particular focus on building on our core technical focus areas, examining emergent needs, and expanding the partnerships needed to create lasting economic and environmental benefits in the communities we serve.”
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