Mission Statement
Inspire lifelong health and enjoyment of dairy through evidence-based nutrition education and leadership.
At the Washington State Dairy Council, we are a team of registered dietitians passionate about helping individuals and communities thrive—starting with the food on their plate.
Since 1934, we’ve provided credible, science-based nutrition education to support healthy, balanced, and joyful eating habits. Our work is made possible by the support of Washington’s dairy farm families and local processors, whose commitment to health and wellness helps bring our mission to life.
We promote healthy, sustainable eating patterns that include nutrient-dense foods—like milk, cheese, and yogurt—grounded in the most current, evidence-based nutrition research and guided by the U.S. Dietary Guidelines.
Whether you’re a health professional, educator, or someone who simply wants to make informed food choices, we offer trusted tools and resources to help. Because nutrition isn’t just about nutrients—it’s about connection, culture, and cultivating lifelong well-being.
Our Board Members
Leann Krainick – Board President since 2024, Member since 2015
Dairy Farmer – Krainick Dairy, Enumclaw, WA
Dustin Highland – Board Vice President since 2024, Member since 2012
CEO, Smith Brothers Farms
Tim Pierson, MS, RDN, CD – Board Secretary since 2025
Sustainable Nutrition Director, Washington Dairy Commission
Terri Raymond, MA, RDN, CDN, FAND – Board Member since 2005
Owner, Dietitian Consulting Services
Michelle Carter – Board Member since 2012
Member Communications Manager, Darigold
Lana Smaciarz, RDN, CDN – Board Member since 2017
Dairy Farmer – Oxbow Dairy, Raymond, WA
Leanne Eko, RD, SNS – Board Member since 2020
Child Nutrition Services Director, OSPI
Dan DeRuyter – Board Member since 2023
Dairy Farmer – George DeRuyter & Sons Dairy, Outlook, WA
David Lukens – Board Member since 2025
Owner, Grace Harbor Farms
Celeste Piette – Board Member since 2025
Interim Executive Director, Washington Dairy Commission
Erin Pike – Board Member since 2025
Royal Dairy, Royal City, WA
Meet your Dairy Council Team:
Tim Pierson, MS, RDN, CD
Executive Director, Washington Dairy Council
Sustainable Nutrition Director, Washington Dairy Commission
[email protected]
Brianne Cowan, RDN, CD
Nutrition and Wellness Director, Washington Dairy Commission
[email protected]
