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The World Potato Congress Inc. (WPC) has made history by conferring its inaugural “Directors Emeritus” titles to Nora Olsen and Jang Sangha, two towering figures in the global potato sector. The newly adopted “Emeritus Policy” by the WPC Board of Directors marks a significant milestone, recognizing individuals whose long-standing contributions have shaped the organization and advanced the global potato industry. The first nominations were unanimously approved, underscoring the respect and admiration both honorees command within the international agricultural community.
Jang Sangha: A Legacy of Innovation and Collaboration
Jang Sangha’s association with the World Potato Congress spans nearly two decades, beginning with his active participation at the Boise Congress in 2006 and continuing through Christchurch (2009), Edinburgh (2012), Cusco–Peru (2018), Dublin (2022), and Adelaide (2024). His presence at these global gatherings has been more than ceremonial; Sangha has consistently engaged with speakers, delegates, and industry leaders, fostering connections that transcend borders and cultures.
As Managing Director of the Sangha Group, Jang Sangha oversees a diversified farming enterprise that manages approximately 2,000 hectares of land. The Group’s operations encompass seed generation, crop management, cold storage, and post-harvest value addition, setting benchmarks for progressive farming systems in India. Sangha’s commitment to integrating mechanization, precision agronomy, and sustainable practices into seed potato production has positioned the Sangha Group as a leader in scale-efficient and environmentally responsible agriculture.
Sangha’s influence extends beyond his own enterprise. He has served on the Boards of the Punjab Agricultural University, the World Potato Congress, and the Australia India Institute. Since 2008, he has also been Secretary General of the Confederation of Potato Seed Farmers, where he has championed initiatives that connect farmers, researchers, and policymakers to drive innovation in seed quality, agronomy, and farmer-led modernization.
His global outlook is reflected in his collaborations with international research institutions, including the University of Lincoln (UK) and Punjab Agricultural University (India), focusing on reducing food losses and improving post-harvest efficiency. These partnerships are critical in building resilience and sustainability across the potato supply chain.
Sangha’s work is deeply rooted in a sense of continuity and legacy. His late father, Hardev Singh Sangha, established a pioneering seed potato production model in the 1960s and was honored with the prestigious WPC Industry Award at Christchurch in 2009. Jang Sangha continues to uphold these values of integrity, innovation, and collaboration, which he credits as the foundation of lasting professional relationships both within India and internationally.
Reflecting on his association with the Congress, Sangha describes the WPC as “an unparalleled global platform that connects science, policy, and practice — where shared learning transcends geography and culture.” He believes the Congress continues to play a vital role in shaping the potato’s future as a crop of resilience, nutrition, and opportunity for farmers across the world.
Nora Olsen: A Trailblazer in Potato Research and Education
Dr. Nora Olsen’s conferral of Director Emeritus by the World Potato Congress Inc. recognizes her more than ten years of dedicated service and influential leadership in the global potato sector. Since joining the WPC Board in 2014, Olsen has driven major initiatives, including the launch and ongoing development of the WPC Webinar Series, a platform that continues to connect and educate potato professionals worldwide. Having attended seven World Potato Congresses over the years, she has also been a regular featured speaker at Congress events and industry conferences, where her engaging style and deep expertise have inspired audiences across the globe.
Olsen’s impact goes far beyond her WPC roles. She is a Professor and Potato Specialist at the University of Idaho, with more than 25 years of research and extension work focused on postharvest management, disease control, and sustainable potato production. Her research has shaped best practices for growers internationally.
Olsen made history as the first female President of the Potato Association of America (PAA) and has served as chair of the Extension section and participated on various committees. She was named an Honorary Life Member in 2019 for her outstanding service. She is also a board member of the North America Potato Storage Organization (NAPSO) and a driving force in the organization, co-hosting landmark events such as the Potato Storage Symposium. In the international arena, she serves as a member of the European Association of Potato Research. Additionally, Olsen has served as a trusted advisor and collaborator with the Idaho Crop Improvement Association, helping to advance crop management standards in Idaho and beyond.
Olsen’s efforts have been recognized with prestigious accolades, including Spudman’s Woman of the Year award, acknowledging her lasting impact on potato research and outreach, as well as Honorary Life Member, Potato Association of America (2019). She has also received multiple extension and research awards recognizing her contributions to potato storage, disease management, and industry education at local, national, and international levels.
Olsen has inspired many professionals in the field, serving as a role model for researchers and extension professionals, occasionally referred to as the “Queen of Potatoes.” Her extensive network and influence have made her a sought-after speaker and advisor, regularly invited to lead seminars, webinars, and industry symposia.
Upon learning of this appointment, Olsen spoke to the value of attending a congress. “There is such value in this organization and in attending the Congress – the international networking and connections made thru the in-person congress and on-line, the continuity that flows from country to country on the need and desire to produce potatoes to feed the world and the integration of all sectors from ‘research to production to marketing’ at a congress provides continued momentum for the potato industry. The value from this type of networking has changed the global industry. I love how the organization reaches diverse audiences and encourages participation and provides availability of resources for everyone.”
A New Chapter for the World Potato Congress
World Potato Congress Inc. President Peter VanderZaag offered his congratulations to Jang Sangha and Nora Olsen. “Your legacy will continue to shape innovation, education, and partnership throughout the potato sector.” The conferral of Directors Emeritus titles to Olsen and Sangha not only honors their individual achievements but also sets a precedent for future recognition of those who have made significant contributions to the global potato community.
As the World Potato Congress continues to evolve, the legacy of Nora Olsen and Jang Sangha will serve as a beacon for future leaders, inspiring continued collaboration, innovation, and commitment to the advancement of the potato industry worldwide.
