Comments:
President Mercer, first president of the Ivory Coast Mission, was recently honored by the World Potato Congress, receiving their highest honor for his contribution to the industry, his occupation before heading to Africa. Here are excerpts from their newsletter: This week (September) Mercer was honoured at the World Potato Congress in Holland, one of the select few chosen for a WPC Award. 20 YEARS AT THE HELM In 1972 Mercer was recruited by the potato growers of the United States to organize and manage a National Potato Board, authorized through enabling legislation of the United States Congress. During his 20 years as the first president and C.E.O. of the Potato Board, it became an example of what growers could do to promote and expand their markets. Through Mercers vision and leadership many awards were given for outstanding commodity promotion. It is studied in business schools and emulated throughout the produce industry. Only his family has been more important than his career. He has been a devoted father and a devout worker in his church. These qualities have made Bob Mercer an outstanding member of our proud potato industry. (Submitted by his daughter May 1, 2001) | 
