Meet Our Staff
Stuart Spencer
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
Stuart Spencer began his career with the Lodi Winegrape Commission in 1999 as the Program Manager where he was instrumental in conceptualizing and guiding many of the region’s successful marketing, research and education, and sustainable viticulture programs, including LODI RULES. Today, Stuart remains heavily involved in these areas serving as the Executive Director at the pleasure of the region’s 750 winegrowers. As the principal spokesperson for the Lodi appellation and respected winegrower, winemaker, and Lodi industry expert, Stuart participates regularly in promotional and educational opportunities throughout the United States and abroad, raising awareness of Lodi’s distinctive winegrapes and wines.
Stephanie L. Bolton, PhD
GROWER RESEARCH & EDUCATION DIRECTOR
LODI RULES SUSTAINABLE WINEGROWING DIRECTOR
stephanie@lodiwine.com
Having joined the Lodi Winegrape Commission in 2016, Dr. Stephanie Bolton leads the grower research, education, and communications initiatives, along with the LODI RULES sustainable winegrowing certification program, providing targeted and daily support to Lodi winegrowers in these areas. Stephanie brings to the table proven team organizational leadership, a high level of motivation and passion to discover both short- and long-term solutions for the farming families she adores, and an innate ability to creatively open communication channels between growers, scientists, and relative industry personnel. In 2023 she was selected as a Nuffield International Farming Scholar, a Wine Enthusiast Future 40 Honoree, and a Wine Business Monthly Industry Leader. She serves on the National Grape Research Alliance Board, the Fresno State Viticulture Advisory Committee and as a mentor for several amazing students. When Stephanie isn’t collaborating on exciting viticulture projects or out in the vineyards, you can find her in Marin Co. exploring the coastal headlands.
Jenny Heitman
INTEGRATED MARKETING & COMMUNICATIONS MANAGER
Jenny Heitman began her career with the Lodi Winegrape Commission in 2010, working as a wine educator in the Lodi Wine Visitor Center. Today, she guides the organization’s marketing and public relations initiatives. Jenny’s role is fundamental in managing brand consistency across all departments and in establishing strategies for advertising, social media, email, and media and trade outreach to increase awareness, perception, and value of the Lodi appellation, winegrowers, diverse winegrapes, and wines. When Jenny is not busy responding to emails, she’s cooking for, reading to, or chasing after her energetic toddler, Rustyn.
Paul R. Marsh, CS
VISITOR CENTER MANAGER WINE CLUB DIRECTOR
Paul Marsh joined the Lodi Winegrape Commission in 2021 as the Lodi Wine Visitor Center Manager and Wine Club Director. A certified sommelier, Paul’s extensive experience in wine education, food and beverage programming, customer service, and business management has been key to his success in managing the day-to-day operations of the Visitor Center, creating guest and wine club member experiences, and fueling membership and sales for the Lodi Wine Club.
Kim Miller
ACCOUNTING MANAGER
Kim Miller joined the Lodi Winegrape Commission in 2017 as the Accounting Manager. A master of prioritization, Kim’s considerable experience in business management along with her sharp analytical skills are integral to her role in managing the general accounting functions for both the Lodi Winegrape Commission and its 501 (c)(3) – the California Wine Education Foundation – including, but not limited to: accounts payable, accounts receivable, general ledger, payroll, audits, insurance, and taxes. When Kim is not crunching numbers, you’ll likely find her traveling with her husband Ron, making memories with family – grandkids and Bella, her Aussie Border “child,” included – cooking, running, or working out at the gym.