Over the past couple months, Asheville Brewers Alliance Board of Directors set out to find someone with the right vision and experience to lead the Alliance through its next phase. Karis Roberts will be serving as that leader in the role of Executive Director. 

A Wilmington native, Karis moved to Asheville 15 years ago to attend UNCA and immediately feel in love with our unique little town. Karis is no stranger to non profit work as a board member of Girls On the Run WNC, big sister for Big Brothers Big Sister of WNC and volunteer for CoThinkk. While she is not volunteering, Karis has immersed herself in the Asheville creative scene and serves as a bartender for Wedge Brewery, Rabbit Rabbit, and The Mule at Devil's Foot Beverage. 

Karis said that she is passionate about Asheville and what she can do as the ABA's new executive director. "Recently, I was able to attend my first ABA mixer and left with feelings of hope, support, and inspiration," she said. "Asheville Brewers are such a big part of our local culture and economy, and being able to effectively impact change in the city I love has been at the core of community service efforts. The Brewer’s Alliance welcomes all and each individual person seems very passionate and proud of their craft. I am honored to be joining such a formidable team." 

When offered this position, Karis said that she was both elated and apprehensive. "Serving as the face and community liaison for the ABA comes with opportunities for growth, change, and ingenuity," she said. "There aren't many Black women in the beer industry, and after living in Asheville for 15 years, I have seen how lack of visibility can become harmful and also how diversification can bring about change and new perspectives." 

As a lifelong educator and learner, Karis said her goal as the new Executive Director is to make sure our core membership feels supported. "Cohesion, communication, conflict resolution, and community will be my driving force as we uphold our mission, vision, and goals," she said. "I am eternally optimistic while knowing I have lot to learn and a lot of hands to shake - but I am looking forward to supporting and adding to the burgeoning culture that is Asheville beer."

Source: Asheville Brewers Alliance