d regulatory landscapes of animal health products, and it was during that time that she was introduced to NASC. After attending her first NASC Annual Conference, she developed a genuine admiration for the organization’s mission, integrity, and approach to industry leadership — an impression that would stay with her and ultimately guide her career path. It was Erica’s time at NASC, from 2015 to 2023, that truly shaped her passion for elevating industry standards. In her role at NASC, she supported member companies in navigating regulatory challenges and implementing best practices, while fostering strong, collaborative relationships across the industry.

After eight and a half years with NASC, Erica returned to industry in 2023 to join PetLab Co. This transition shifted her position from guiding member companies to directly navigating the challenges and responsibilities they face; a familiar view but now with a sharper lens.  It also expanded her scope through global experience, adding new dimensions to her work in compliance and operations. At PetLab Co., she has gained broader exposure to international markets, cross-functional collaboration, and the regulatory considerations that come with scaling responsible practices across geographies.

Erica currently lives in Texas with her rescue dog Minnow — a sassy, soulful sidekick who, despite her name, is neither small nor swims, but who does bring the mission of NASC to life in her home and anchors Erica daily in why this work matters.

Candidate Statement: NASC’s mission has become part of my professional DNA. The eight and a half years I spent at NASC gave me not only deep insight into the organization’s operations and values, but also a true appreciation for the member companies and the people behind them. I built lasting relationships and witnessed firsthand how NASC serves as a force for progress in our industry.

Returning to the member-side of the industry has broadened my perspective. I now understand more clearly than ever the evolving challenges companies face and how NASC’s guidance and leadership can make a meaningful difference. I believe this dual experience—working within NASC and now as a member company leader—uniquely positions me to serve on the Board of Directors.

Running for a seat on the Board is not just a continuation of my professional journey—it is a personal opportunity to give back to an organization that helped shape who I am. Thank you for considering my candidacy. I would be honored to continue contributing to NASC’s mission through service on the Board of Directors.

ational manufacturer, FibreCycle. 

In late 2020, Mike took on the role of President of Kent Precision Foods Group, reigniting growth for the human food focused manufacturer with business split between food service, industrial and retail customers. It was in this role that an appreciation for the regulatory interactions between manufacturers and government. He secured the acquisition of the highly complementary international business, Frosty Boy in 2023.

2024 saw Mike move into the Senior Vice President role in Kent Pet Group’s parent organization to lead long-term manufacturing strategy, consumer-brand acquisitions and the revitalization of Kent’s retail footprint, Blue Seal Farm & Home.

After growing up with dogs, Mike and his family shared their home with three rescue cats spending an outsized share to ensure their health and well-being. Today our adult children all share their homes with pets. After a lifetime with pets and a significant portion of my career working with companion animal brands, I see this as an opportunity to give back to a community that has had a tremendous impact on my and my family’s lives. The long-term welfare of our companion animals is incumbent upon those who work to provide products for them and the households they call home. Self-regulation and mutual accountability should be at our core as manufacturers and marketers.

Candidate Statement: For me, becoming a board member is a privilege that comes with tremendous responsibility to our fellow members and to our members’ consumer base. This is not something that I have to do, this is something that I choose to do. I embrace the opportunity to influence and advocate on behalf of the greater public. I am excited to continue to both teach and learn about how we as a community can improve the lives of our companion animals who in turn improve the quality of our own lives.

Clara is a veterinarian, researcher, and Clinical Pharmacology and Internal Medicine Consultant with extensive pharmaceutical experience. As a DVM and PhD with Board Certification in Internal Medicine (ACVIM), she brings over 30 years of expertise in animal pharmaceuticals, supplements, and regulatory compliance. 

Since 1999, Dr. Fenger has served as an animal supplement consultant providing formulation recommendations, GMP testing, manufacturing consultation, and technical support. She currently serves as Senior Compliance Manager and Preventative Controls Qualified Individual (PCQI) for Animal Healthcare Products and Packaging, and as Adjunct Professor at Texas A&M's Animal Science Department.

Candidate Statement: With over two decades of dedicated experience in the animal supplement industry, Dr. Fenger offers a unique combination of veterinary expertise, pharmaceutical knowledge, and regulatory compliance skills. As an equine veterinarian and researcher, she understands the critical intersection between science, safety, and efficacy in animal supplementation. Her extensive work in formulation development, GMP testing, and manufacturing consultation provides her with insights that would benefit NASC members navigating today's complex regulatory landscape.

If elected, Dr. Fenger will advocate for science-based standards that ensure product quality while supporting industry innovation. She is committed to advancing NASC's mission of enhancing animal health through responsible supplementation practices and looks forward to contributing her expertise to strengthen the industry's reputation and regulatory standing.

Paul is the CEO of Vets Plus, Inc., a custom developer and contract manufacturer of animal health supplements with a 35-year legacy of innovation and quality, serving hundreds of animal health supplement brand owners. 

Paul has devoted his entire 40-year career to the animal health industry, which he passionately describes as a noble field due to its vital role in enhancing the quality of life for animals and their owners. Paul has led NASC member organizations since 2015. He seeks to join the NASC Board of Directors to help ensure the continued ability of our industry to promote the health of animals and protect the animal health supplement sector. 

He has served as a board member of the Animal Health Institute and the Generic Animal Drug Alliance trade associations and currently sits on the boards of three animal health companies. He believes that his extensive experience in navigating animal health product regulations, combined with his deep understanding of the needs of supplement brand owners, will enable him to make a significant contribution to the future of our NASC organization.

Before joining Vets Plus, Paul held several CEO roles, including at Med-Pharmex, where he led its regulatory remediation, culminating in the sale to Dechra. He served as CEO of Virbac North America, where he implemented omnichannel distribution and spearheaded the FDA compliance turnaround of its production facilities. Before that, as CEO of Synbiotics Corporation, he guided the company through its transition from public to private ownership, culminating in its acquisition by Pfizer Animal Health. 

Paul held increasingly senior positions at Boehringer Ingelheim, ultimately as Executive Vice President of U.S. Business. Early in his career, he was a member of the U.S. start-up team for CIBA Animal Health (later Novartis) and began his industry journey as a sales representative with Coopers Animal Health. He earned a bachelor’s degree in animal science from the University of Missouri.

Audra M. Mulligan is the Director of Regulatory Affairs and Product Development at W.F. Young, where she brings over 13 years of regulatory expertise across animal and consumer product industries. She has a proven track record in leading compliance strategies, navigating complex regulatory frameworks, and driving the development of science-backed, efficacious products. 

Audra has a strong appreciation for the vital role trade associations play in advancing industry standards and collaboration. She currently serves on the Pesticide Management Executive Board of the Household & Commercial Products Association (HCPA) and remains actively engaged with leading regulatory and industry organizations, including AAFCO, AAPFCO, and AAPCO. 

Audra is recognized for her hands-on leadership and willingness to support the organization wherever needed. She is deeply committed to NASC’s mission and believes in the power of active listening and connection with member companies to foster meaningful progress. Her dedication reflects a broader vision: building a responsible, transparent, and forward-thinking animal supplement industry. 

Candidate Statement: Being deeply involved in respected organizations is part of who I am—it’s in my DNA! I’m fueled by a growing passion to collaborate and drive meaningful, sustainable change that will elevate the industry to new heights. I thrive on engaging fully, committing the time and energy needed, and, most importantly, listening to and valuing the diverse perspectives of all members. Let’s create something powerful together and push the industry forward! 

With over 35 years of experience in the human and pet supplement industry, I currently serve as the Chief Marketing Officer at Icelandirect, LLC, where I lead all Sales and Marketing efforts. Icelandirect is a proud member of NASC and a preferred supplier, known for our pioneering role in the pet supplement market. Since 2012, we’ve successfully launched some of the first pet supplement brands on Amazon, establishing a strong presence and trusted reputation in the industry. 

My career includes key leadership roles such as Global Business Director at Balchem, where I oversaw the sale of Choline for both human and animal nutrition. At DSM, I worked extensively with vitamins, premixes, and fish oils for human and pet formulas. At Farbest Brands, I was involved in the sale of pea protein and gum acacia to leading dog food manufacturers. One of my proudest contributions was playing a critical role in the launch of Greenies with Mars. 

Currently, I’m actively helping numerous pet brands grow through innovative offerings in liquid and powder supplements. I have helped Icelandirect secure exclusive supply and distribution agreements with Alaskan fisheries, Norwegian salmon oil, and Veramaris Pet Algal oil—further solidifying our commitment to quality, sustainability, and transparency, 

I am passionate about the health and well-being of animals and firmly believe high-quality supplements are essential to their care. My goal in joining the NASC board is to contribute meaningfully to ongoing efforts that ensure the safety, efficacy, and integrity of animal supplements. I am committed to building a sustainable and ethical industry that prioritizes animal health and earns the continued trust of pet parents. 

As a board member, I will bring decades of experience and industry insight to support the council’s mission and help shape the future of the industry. I will focus on fostering collaboration among industry leaders, advancing best practices, and advocating for rigorous standards that benefit both pets and the people who love them. 

The love a pet gives is pure, unconditional, and lifelong. When you bring a pet into your home—especially a rescued fur-baby—they remember it forever. That deep bond between humans and animals inspires me every day and fuels my commitment to advancing the pet supplement industry through innovation, sustainability, and regulatory leadership to better protect our pets.

n talent within her team and encouraging innovation. A deep love of pets as well as her commitment to health and wellness contributes to Sara’s natural drive in the space of pet supplements.

Candidate Statement: Dear NASC Members—I am honored to seek your support for re-election to the National Animal Supplement Council’s Board of Directors. During my previous term, I have been deeply committed to upholding NASC’s mission of ensuring the quality and safety of animal health supplements. 

The animal supplement industry continues to evolve, facing new challenges and opportunities. My experience at FoodScience, LLC and Pet Tech Labs, as well as on the NASC Board has provided me with a deep understanding of the pet supplement landscape, the needs of our members, and the importance of maintaining consumer trust. I am passionate about:

• Maintaining rigorous quality standards: Ensuring our members adhere to the highest levels of manufacturing and labeling practices.

• Advocating for responsible regulation: Working with regulatory bodies to create a fair and effective framework for our industry.

• Enhancing member resources and education: Providing valuable tools and information to support our members’ success.

• Promoting consumer confidence: Building trust in the safety and efficacy of animal supplements. 

If re-elected, I pledge to continue working tirelessly to advance the NASC's objectives and represent the interests of our diverse membership. I am committed to fostering collaboration, transparency, and innovation within our industry. I believe my experience, dedication, and passion make me a valuable asset to the NASC Board.

Thank you for your consideration. I look forward to the opportunity to continue serving the NASC and its members.

Élan is CEO of Alkemist Labs, a passionately committed contract testing laboratory specializing in plant and fungal authentication and quantitative analytical services to the food & beverage, nutraceutical, companion animal and psychedelic industries.

He holds a degree in chemistry from California State University Long Beach and has authored numerous articles on phytochemistry and analytical techniques for the natural products industry. Élan is on the AHPA board, was founding chair of the Cannabis Committee, and now chairs the Psychedelic Plants & Fungi Committee. Other boards he serves on include the National Animal Supplement Council (NASC) and the United Natural Products Association (UNPA) Executive Advisory Committee. He is a Pharmacognosy and Natural Products Chemistry Advisor to the American Herbal Pharmacopoeia.

The industry has honored Élan and his company in 2019 with NutraIngredients-USA NutraChampion award for advocacy of best testing practices, and the Nutrition Business Journal (NBJ) award for Efforts on Behalf of Industry in 2022.

Candidate Statement: Dear Fellow NASC Members—I'm Élan M. Sudberg, CEO of Alkemist Labs, a leading family-owned plant and fungi lab in the Dietary Supplement industry. You might know me for my efforts in tackling the adulterated Hoodia market, advocating for fit-for-purpose testing, chairing industry committees on cannabis and psychedelic plants, and promoting transparency in quality standards.

I'm seeking re-election to the NASC Board of Directors. My journey began over 25 years ago when my father and I founded Alkemist Labs. Growing up in the 'alternative medicine' industry, I've been passionate about plant and fungal analysis since childhood. At an early industry meeting, the late Michael McGuffin advised me to make my voice heard, and I've been a vocal advocate for best practices ever since. Through our work at Alkemist Labs, we understand the strengths and weaknesses of the herb/mushroom trade and aim to ensure the best products are made.

I believe sharing my knowledge and experience with my colleagues will benefit the NASC board. I look forward to continuing our work to support the health of companion animals and the animal health supplement industry.

nimal health market. The company is also the manufacturer of one of the leading human probiotic medical food products, Visbiome, which is supported by over 100 human clinical trials, further underscoring ExeGi’s commitment to evidence-based innovation.

 ExeGi is an NASC-audited member in good standing, and Marc himself is an active member of the International Probiotics Association (IPA) as Co-Chair of the IPA Companion Animal Committee. His background includes more than two decades in probiotics, live biotherapeutics, medical foods, and rare disease therapies, including executive roles at Cambrooke Therapeutics, Cerium Pharmaceuticals, and Sigma-Tau Pharmaceuticals.

Marc holds an MBA and BA from Loyola University and is widely respected for his integrity, strategic vision, and dedication to science-backed health solutions.

Candidate Statement: I am pleased to put forth my candidacy for the NASC Board of Directors. As the Founder of ExeGi Pharma and the executive responsible for the management of Visbiome Vet, I bring a unique combination of entrepreneurial leadership and deep domain expertise in probiotics and regulatory strategy. ExeGi is proud to be an NASC-audited member in good standing and to be at the forefront of probiotic innovation in both the human and veterinary sectors.

Since founding ExeGi in 2015, I have focused on developing professionally recommended probiotic products that meet the highest scientific and regulatory standards. Visbiome Vet is now one of the most widely recommended and studied veterinary probiotics, while our human probiotic medical food is backed by more than 100 clinical trials — an achievement that reflects our company’s unwavering dedication to quality and clinical credibility. 

As an active member of the International Probiotics Association, I stay closely connected to global developments in probiotic, prebiotic, and postbiotic science, regulatory policy, and best practices. I believe this perspective will be of value to the NASC community, particularly as our industry continues to evolve and intersect with rapidly advancing fields such as microbiome research and precision nutrition.

I am deeply aligned with NASC’s mission and values and would be honored to help guide the future of our industry as a member of the Board of Directors. My goal is to contribute constructively to NASC’s initiatives, ensuring continued transparency, scientific rigor, and trust in the animal health supplement marketplace.

Bryan is the CEO of Precision Science, a global contract manufacturer specializing in animal pharmaceuticals and supplements. Since 2006, Bryan has led the company’s transformation from a single-product operation into a recognized leader in the animal health industry, with a growing international footprint.

With decades of experience serving on both nonprofit and corporate boards, Bryan brings deep expertise in financial oversight and long-term strategic planning. His professional background includes significant experience in the animal health sector—across both supplement and drug product lines—as well as extensive involvement in global markets. He also has a strong foundation in the technology sector, having led numerous strategic transactions and business development initiatives.

In addition to his work with Precision Science, Bryan enjoys cycling, photography, my daily walks with the four-legged children and his time with Phoebe, his cat.

Candidate Statement: I am seeking to join the NASC Board to contribute my experience in animal health, strategic planning, and global business to support the continued growth and impact of the organization. As a long-time NASC member, I value the council’s leadership in elevating quality and compliance in our industry. I believe in NASC’s mission and would be honored to help guide its realization and long-term success.