(PRESS RELEASE) WASHINGTON, DC – The Pet Food Institute (PFI), whose members make the vast majority of dog and cat food and treats in the United States, announced that Kelly Kanaras joined the association as the new director of communications. Kanaras will oversee PFI’s communication efforts.
“I am thrilled to join PFI and use my expertise to support the pet food industry,” said Kanaras. “Pets are such an important part of our families and deserve the best care and nutrition that we can give them. Joining an industry whose goal is to provide for the health and wellness of pets is very exciting.”
Kanaras brings more than 10 years of experience in communications, marketing and public relations to PFI. She previously worked as the director of industry promotion at the National Asphalt Pavement Association where she led several programs and marketing campaigns, including the award-winning Watch For Us campaign.
Kanaras holds a bachelor’s degree in Communications from the University of Maryland Global Campus. She lives in Odenton, Md., with her husband, two sons, two dogs and cat.
Cindy Ndebumadu also joined PFI as an office support specialist. Cindy is responsible for administrative duties to support daily operations in the office and connecting members to the appropriate staff to meet their needs.
Ndebumadu previously worked as a communication intern while attending college with The Center of 4-H & Youth Development at UDC College of Agriculture, Urban Sustainability and Environmental Science.
Cindy holds a bachelor’s degree in Digital Media and Public Relations from the University of the District of Columbia. Currently, she lives in Gaithersburg, Md., and is a proud cat aunty to her sister’s cat, Catilina.
About Pet Food Institute
Since 1958, the Pet Food Institute has been the voice of the U.S. pet food and treat makers. PFI is the industry’s representative before Congress and state legislatures, as well as state and federal agencies; a public education and media relations resource; an organizer of seminars and educational programs; and a liaison to other organizations. PFI represents the companies making up 98 percent of U.S. dog and cat food and treat products, an industry achieving more than $50 billion in U.S. retail sales and $2 billion in exports in 2021. Visit petfoodinstitute.org to learn more.