HVADC People: Linnette Diaz

HVADC welcomes Linnette Diaz as the organization’s newest Program Associate. The position is vital to HVADC as Diaz will be an integral member of the office team, handling major aspects of client relations, project administration and communications. As a self-made social media business consultant Diaz demonstrates a self-motivated adaptability that makes her a great fit for this important position.  

In the Program Associate position Diaz will coordinate with other HVADC staff, Board members, advisors and clients across all HVADC programming. She will administer several of the HVADC digital communications vehicles such as the HVADC Cultivator newsletter, The Famer newsletter which is distributed to food producers listed on the Hudson Valley Bounty, informing them of educational, funding, promotional and workforce opportunities; and the and the Hudson Valley Bounty newsletter which is consumer-facing, promoting the food producers listed on the portal. She will also be involved with website and social media marketing.    

A specific and important characteristic Diaz impressed HVADC with, was her personal drive and dedication to continued learning. In her free time she take classes and courses to gain certifications and skills that aid her in her career. Such exploration led to Diaz adding design, website emailing and events management to her skillset.  

“Especially when it comes to social media you have to constantly be learning,” Diaz said. “Everything changes so fast you have to stay on top of it. I think social media is an area where I can really help HVADC expand.”  

Along with social media and marketing classes she says, she has been studying local food systems and food waste issues for years.  

“I’m really excited to work with the FeedHV program,” Diaz said. “Fighting food waste is a personal passion of mine.”  

Diaz is also bilingual in English and Spanish which is an incredibly valuable asset in this forward-facing position and as HVADC strives to grow inclusivity and equity throughout all its programming. She also has worked with sign language and Braille.  

“Linnette brings a lot to the table but the most important thing is her desire to make an impact,” said HVADC Deputy Director Mary Ann Johnson. “HVADC has dynamic projects that involve a varied skillset to navigate. Linnette has the drive and a hunger to learn. That’s the best combination for this position with us.”  

Diaz grew up in Stratford Connecticut, where she says she loves to go back to visit. She received her degree in psychology from the College of New Rochelle. She worked with youth and as an ABA therapist for children with autism, before staring a successful freelance career as a virtual assistant, social media and influence manager based out of Catskill. Diaz moved to Catskill during the pandemic and as things have opened up she has been excited to get to know the town and explore the Hudson Valley.  

“I love to work, I’m always researching things on my own and looking for solutions,” Diaz said.