The Philadelphia Orchard Project (POP) celebrates an exciting milestone with the appointment of Vikram Krishnamurthy as its new Executive Director. With more than 25 years of experience in conservation, horticulture, and nonprofit leadership, Vikram brings deep expertise and a shared passion for POP’s mission to plant and support community orchards across Philadelphia.
Throughout his career, Vikram has strengthened horticultural and food systems in the greater Philadelphia region and served in leadership roles at American Forests, the Delaware Center for Horticulture, Fair Food Philadelphia, and the Center for Public Horticulture at the University of Delaware.
“POP’s deep community roots and the passion of its partners, supporters, and volunteers have long inspired me, and I’m honored to build on that legacy with our talented staff while helping the organization thrive in fresh, meaningful ways,” shared Vikram. “We’re grateful for partners like the Junior League of Philadelphia, as community collaboration is central to delivering on POP’s mission.”
As part of the transition, former Co-Executive Director Phil Forsyth will continue his work with POP as Director of Horticulture.
“JLP’s partnership with POP is rooted in our shared values of building sustainable community impact through volunteer action, collaboration, and education,” shared Rose Cuozzo, JLP member and POP Board Vice President, who helped lead the executive search committee. “POP’s growth from a few orchards to 71 sites across Philadelphia shows what’s possible when communities unite with a bold vision and purpose.”
The Junior League of Philadelphia has supported POP for several years through hands-on volunteer work, board leadership, and a $48,000 grant to establish POP’s headquarters at The Woodlands, which includes a learning orchard, nursery, greenhouse, and high tunnels.
JLP members are invited to the Spring Plant Sale and Open House at the POP Learning Orchard at The Woodlands on May 16th. For details, visit Philadelphia Orchard Project.