McLean, VA (August 24, 2026) — The U.S. Apple Association (USApple) has named a new chair to lead its Board of Directors. Fourth-generation Virginia apple grower Philip Glaize III, of Glaize Apples, will serve the 2026-27 term.  

Raised on his family’s orchard in Winchester, VA, Glaize continues a legacy of both apple growing and industry leadership. His father, Phil Glaize II, served as chair of USApple from 2000-2001, making the younger Glaize the second generation of his family to lead the association.

“Philip has a deep understanding of this industry not only from growing up in it, but from showing up for it,” said Jim Bair, President and CEO of USApple. “He understands the challenges growers face, believes strongly in the value of advocacy, and isn’t afraid to ask questions about how we can do things better. We’re fortunate to have his leadership as USApple looks to the future.”

After graduating from Colorado College and prior to coming back to the family business, Glaize worked in New York City for Red Jacket Orchards, receiving apples at a large warehouse and learning what it takes to move fruit through the supply chain. The experience gave him a broader view of the food system and a desire to help make it work better for growers and consumers alike.

“Some of my earliest memories are dangling out of my dad’s Jeep as we drove through the orchard, and I attended my first Capitol Hill Day when I was just ten or so,” said Glaize. “This industry has been part of my life for as long as I can remember. I’ve learned that progress rarely happens all at once. It comes from staying engaged, building relationships, and continuing to push for change over time. I’m honored to serve as Chair and help carry that work forward.”

Glaize succeeds 2025-26 Chair Steve Smith of Washington Fruit Growers in Yakima, WA. The gavel was officially passed from Smith to Glaize at USApple’s Board of Directors meeting in Chicago at the completion of its Outlook conference on Friday August 21st.

USApple’s 2026-27 elected board officers include: 

  • Chair: Philip Glaize, III, Head of Operations / Sales, Glaize Apples; VA
  • Vice Chair: Elizabeth Pauls, Wittenbach Orchards; MI 
  • Secretary: Bob Mast, President/CEO of CMI Orchards; WA
  • Treasurer: Kaari Stannard, President & CEO, Yes! Apples; NY 
  • Immediate Past Chair: Steve Smith, Vice President of Marketing, Washington Fruit Growers; WA

You can find all USApple Board Members here.

Steve Smith (right) passing the apple gavel to Philip Glaize III (left) at Outlook 2026.