The Ohio Expositions Commission has named Adam Heffron to be the new executive director of the Ohio Expo Center and State Fair.
The Ohio Expositions Commission has named Adam Heffron to be the new executive director of the Ohio Expo Center and State Fair after being appointed by Gov. Mike DeWine last week. Heffron will replace long-time General Manager Virgil Strickler, who is retiring.
“Replacing someone with the decades of experience and dedication of Virgil Strickler was not an easy task, but we look forward to working with Mr. Heffron as the plans to enhance the Ohio State Fair and other popular events at the Ohio Expo Center come to fruition for the betterment of Ohio agriculture,” said Adam Sharp, executive vice president of Ohio Farm Bureau.
Heffron comes to Ohio from his position as the director of Dane County’s Alliant Energy Center, a multi venue events center hosting agricultural and other large events in Wisconsin’s state capital.
“I am excited to welcome Adam Heffron back to Ohio to lead the next period of growth and development at the Ohio State Fair,” said Gov. Mike DeWine. “Adam has the experience and passion to make our state fair the best in the nation. He will lead the changes outlined in the Expo 2050 plan that will make our fairgrounds even better for fairgoers, exhibitors and other visitors.”
Heffron has more than 30 years of experience in the hospitality and entertainment industry, including organizing major music and agricultural events. He has worked in leadership positions with the Wisconsin State Fair, Washington State Fair, Meet Minneapolis: Convention & Visitors Association, the Minnesota State Fair, and the Ohio Expo Center and State Fair.
In addition to his agricultural events experience, Heffron was director of facilities and operations for Milwaukee World Festival, Inc. which produces Summerfest, one of the world’s largest music festivals, generating $187 million in economic impact for the Milwaukee community.
“I am excited to step into this role and build upon the incredible legacy of Virgil Strickler by helping to make the governor’s 2050 vision a reality. I look forward to bringing my diverse experiences to the table to lead Ohio’s state fair and expo center in becoming the best in the nation,” Heffron said.
Heffron is expected to start in March.
This year, the Land and Living Exhibit will be merging with the Little Farmers Exhibit to ensure that Ohio Farm Bureau and agriculture still have a presence outside of the livestock barns.
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Meet the new executive director of the Ohio Expo Center and State Fair and learn how the major renovations are going.
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The Ohio Expositions Commission has named Adam Heffron to be the new executive director of the Ohio Expo Center and State Fair
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Ohio Farm Bureau, along with partner Kroger, purchased the Reserve Grand Champion Market Beef exhibited by Beckett Winegardner from Allen County. Ohio Farm Bureau, along with partners Bob Evans and Kroger, also purchased the Reserve Grand Champion Market Barrow exhibited by Logan Deel of Gallia County.
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In testimony before the Ohio House and Senate Joint Ag Committee, Adam Sharp said investing in the Ohio Expo Center and State Fair helps secure the future success of the state’s No. 1 industry.
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Visitors to the Nationwide Donahey Agriculture & Horticulture building will get in-depth, hands-on lessons about farming, food and high-tech agriculture.
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On this Ohio Farm Bureau Podcast, find out what not to miss at this year’s Ohio State Fair!
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State Fair Interns Reily Bell, Ashley Tate and Branson Van Fleet talk about their role in bringing the Land & Living exhibit together, as well as what to expect this year.
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Visits to the Controlled Environment Agriculture Research Complex and learning the ins and outs of the harness horse racing industry are helping us prepare for the Ohio State Fair.
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Each year, the interns take a trip to learn more about the diversity of agriculture in Ohio. This helps them as they plan the exhibits for the state fair.
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