Gregg Halverson named 2025 Potato Person of the Year

Gregg Halverson’s career in the potato industry started at a young age, grading potatoes with his grandfather. Family has continued to be a major theme of his career as he worked with his father and now works with his children as president and board chairman of Grand Forks, N.D.-based Black Gold Farms. Halverson told The Packer that connection in the potato industry has been a career highlight.

Greg Halverson, president and board chairman of Black Gold Farms:

"It’s a family organization, and working with my family has just been a real high point."

The Packer presented Halverson with its 2025 Potato Person of the Year award Feb. 24 in conjunction with the National Potato Council during the 2025 NPC Washington Summit. Halverson played an instrumental role in Black Gold Farms’ expansion into multiple states from the humble beginnings of a 10-acre plot. He also helped Black Gold Farms diversify its offerings to include chipping and processing potatoes as well as red potatoes and sweet potatoes for the fresh market. 

Nominators cited Halverson’s dedication to NPC’s Potato LEAF — Leadership, Education and Advancement Foundation — program as its chairman of the board, noting he helped increase annual fundraising efforts, expand the program’s opportunities to include a Leader in the Field program and a capstone project with its Leadership Institute, which helps foster industry collaboration. Nominators also cited Halverson’s collaborative leadership style.

R.J Andrus, Potato LEAF vice-chair and immediate past president of the National Potato Council:

"This style includes seeking input from the entire board, asking tough questions and keeping the board’s discussions at a strategic level to keep the organization looking forward."

Halverson also served on the U.S. Potato Board, the National Potato Council and the Northern Plains Potato Growers Association. A true potato fan through and through, Halverson has a large collection of antique potato chip cans.

When asked his favorite way to eat a potato, he said to "make sure there’s a potato involved, and whatever way you’re eating that suits me just fine." As for the recognition as the Potato Person of the Year, Halverson he said it was a surprise, but he’s enjoyed his career in the potato industry, forging strong friendships and connecting with leaders in the industry. 

Gregg Halverson:

"It’s great to be recognized by your peers, and The Packer has been a publication that’s been close to our family for a long, long, long time, and I appreciate the recognition not so much for me but for the industry."

Halverson said he sees a bright future for the potato industry.

Gregg Halverson:

"The potato is a vegetable. It’s a very helpful vegetable and it’s one that’s enjoyed in many different ways. I have been in this business for many years. I find a different way to enjoy a potato every year. I’m thrilled to be a part of it and thrilled to be in the middle of it."