Staff and Board

FCIA is led by a volunteer Board of Directors and an Executive Director, supported by a small, part-time staff and volunteers. The development of the Fine Chocolate Industry Association is conducted under the leadership of a Board of Directors and an Executive Director. All Board positions are on a volunteer basis.

2024 FCIA Board of Directors 

Dahlia Graham
Interim President
Fruition Chocolate Works
Connect with Dahlia on LinkedIn

Shadel Nyack Compton - Secretary

Shadel Nyack Compton
Secretary
Belmont Estate
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Andal Balu - Member

Andal Balu
Cocoa Town
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Jacques De Waele - Member

Jacques De Waele 
Savage Brothers Company
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Maricel Presilla - Member

Clark Guittard
Guittard Chocolate Company
Connect with Clark on LinkedIn

Maricel Presilla - Member

Maricel Presilla
International Institute of Chocolate and Cacao Tasting, Gran Cacao & Blue Cacao
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FCIA Staff 

Lauren Adler, Interim Operations and Membership Director

Olja Hocevar Van Wely, Executive Director 

Olja combines two decades of success in grant and program management with hands-on experience making award-winning bean-to-bar chocolate. Throughout her tenure in the international nonprofit sector, Olja has effectively managed a range of grants from both local and global public and private donors. Olja's extensive experience encompasses the oversight of a diverse portfolio of international programs focusing on advancing global women's and youth rights and promoting their equitable access to education and health care. She excels in cultivating partnerships with global public and private donors, partners, and stakeholders.  

Originally from Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Olja immigrated to the United States in 1997. She received an MA from the School of International Service at American University, Washington, DC.  Olja is currently residing in Seattle with her husband, daughter, and their dog, Daisy.

Connect with Olja on LinkedIn


Cathy Ford, Manager of Communications & Public Relations

Cathy Ford, Manager of Member Services

Cathy has more than 20 years of experience supporting corporate executives and conducting training in how to use technology applications in a business setting. She has a Bachelor's Degree in Communication Studies and a Master's Degree in Health Administration. Cathy is the owner of Red Owl Business Services, LLC. and lives in Albuquerque, NM with her husband, Mark, and her dog, Molly. 

Connect with Cathy on LinkedIn