The Organic & Natural Health Association (O&N Health) has appointed Naomi Whittel, founder and CEO of Naomi Whittel Brands, as president of its board of directors. Whittel previously was elected to a board seat in 2019.
 
Todd Harrison, partner at Venable, LLP, will transition from his role as founding president to board counsel.
 
“This is a very exciting development for Organic & Natural Health Association as it shows how far we have grown and matured under Karen Howard, O&N Health CEO and executive director’s leadership,” said Harrison. “With Karen and Naomi leading the association’s efforts, Organic & Natural Health is poised to make huge gains in the near future, and I cannot think of a better person to serve as the president of our association.”
 
Whittel is a serial entrepreneur, New York Times best-selling author, and health and wellness industry expert. She sits on the board of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation Corporate Citizenship Center as an advisory board member.
 
Whittel said that her commitment to O&N Health stems from her passion for improving the supply chain.
 
“Originally, I was drawn to Organic & Natural Health’s commitment to transparency, accessibility, traceability and continuous quality improvement for consumers,” said Whittel. “This is exactly where I care to focus my time and attention. Organic & Natural Health’s mission is to unite consumers and corporations and transform business practices in alignment with regenerative systems to support the health of people and the planet. With this mission, Organic & Natural Health continues to unite and develop shared solutions that honor our resources and future. I am very excited about driving forward our collective commitments in my new role as president.”
 
Sandra Baek Lee, CEO of NJ Labs, was also appointed as a board member. Lee is recognized nationally for her advocacy for quality in chemistry and microbiology testing that serves the pharmaceutical, nutraceutical, dietary supplement, cosmetic, and cannabis/CBD industries.
 
“We continue to keep pushing the envelope in everything that we do and when we see gaps or problems, we are quick to take action,” said Howard. “This is a unique benefit of being a member of Organic & Natural Health. With us you will always be on the forefront of the big issues, without us being influenced by money or politics. Our members and board members are fully vetted to provide the most current and relevant counsel and services to confront the many challenges we face as an industry.”