Poultry Science Association Welcomes Two New Team Members to Strengthen Global Conference and Meeting Operations
CHAMPAIGN, Ill., (December 4, 2025) – The Poultry Science Association (PSA) is pleased to announce the appointment of two new staff members — a move that underscores the Association’s commitment to enhancing support for its growing portfolio of scientific meetings, international engagement, and member services.
Jenny Paul Joins PSA as Conference Programs Coordinator
PSA welcomes Jenny Paul as its new Conference Programs Coordinator. In this role, Paul will support the planning and execution of PSA’s meetings and academic programs — including abstract management, symposia planning, student‑award coordination, and committee support.
Originally from Mattoon, Illinois, Paul earned her degree in Special Education from Eastern Illinois University. She brings enthusiasm for organization and process improvement as she learns PSA’s systems and priorities and works to strengthen communication and consistency across conference processes.
Cara Tharp Named Director of International Conferences & Events
PSA is also delighted to announce the appointment of Cara Tharp as Director of International Conferences and Events. In this strategic role, Tharp will lead PSA’s efforts to expand and enhance its international scientific conferences and global engagement, overseeing logistics, programming, and strategic growth of PSA’s global meeting portfolio.
Born in Sedalia, Missouri, and raised in southwest Arizona before making Champaign–Urbana home, Tharp earned her degree in Liberal Arts/General Studies with a minor in Psychology from Eastern Illinois University. A self‑described foodie with a passion for creative cooking — especially charcuterie — Tharp brings to PSA a passion for international collaboration, member experience, and expanding the reach of PSA’s scientific and educational mission.
“I am very excited to expand the reach of PSA within our international conference portfolio,” Tharp said. “I look forward to working with colleagues and members around the world to deliver meaningful scientific programming and foster global collaboration.”
Strengthening PSA’s Capacity for Growth and Global Collaboration
“These new appointments reflect PSA’s growing ambition and commitment to supporting the global poultry science community with excellence,” said PSA Executive Director Andy Vance. “Jenny’s organizational energy and dedication to members, combined with Cara’s global outlook and event expertise, will strengthen our capacity to deliver high‑quality scientific meetings and deepen our international collaboration.”
Together, Paul and Tharp bring fresh perspective, energy, and expertise — enhancing PSA’s ability to serve its members, grow its global presence, and deliver world‑class scientific programming and events.
About the Poultry Science Association:
The Poultry Science Association is dedicated to the research, dissemination, and application of knowledge that supports the poultry industry. PSA is a global professional organization for poultry science professionals and students. For additional information, visit www.poultryscience.org.