GFB News Magazine

Schmidt leading Georgia Foundation for Agriculture

Posted on September 27, 2026 4:21 PM

Andrew Schmidt has been leading the Georgia Foundation for Agriculture (GFA) since July. Schmidt has more than 20 years of experience in nonprofit leadership, fundraising, marketing and communications. 

 “Andrew stood out from the field of qualified candidates who applied for the position with his experience, leadership and passion for the foundation’s mission,” said GFB President Tom McCall, chairman of the GFA Board of Directors.

Schmidt worked the last two years as senior director of development at WABE in Atlanta. Prior to that, he was the assistant vice president for development and alumni engagement at the University of North Florida. Before that, he served in development and marketing with two Boys & Girls Clubs in Florida and in communications at Georgia State University. 

“Education has always been at the heart of my career. That’s what drew me to the Georgia Foundation for Agriculture: the chance to advance programs that put agricultural education directly into the hands of Georgia’s students and communities while also supporting and strengthening our farmers,” Schmidt said. “Agriculture has been part of my story. I started college as a forestry major and interned with Georgia-Pacific before my path shifted toward nonprofits. I have close friends who farm, so I’ve seen firsthand how much this industry means to the people in it. I’m excited to help GFA grow that story.”

Schmidt is a certified fundraising executive. He earned master’s degrees in business administration and professional writing and a bachelor’s degree in political science, all from Kennesaw State University. He is a member of the Midtown Atlanta Rotary Club and regularly fosters dogs for service work.

The GFA is a non-profit 501(c)3 organization dedicated to preparing the next generation of Georgia ag leaders for success. The foundation works with Georgia Farm Bureau and other Georgia agricultural and educational organizations to achieve its mission. The GFA offers ag scholarships, funds leadership development, ag awareness programs and programs that support farmers’ health and sustainability. To learn more about the foundation and the programs it offers, visit www.gafoundationag.org or email Andrew Schmidt at agschmidt@gafoundationag.org .

Andrew Schmidt