AFIC@MCO is scheduled to open in March 2025.

Meet the Team

at AFIC@MCO

At AFIC@MCO, our dedicated team of experts brings a wealth of knowledge, experience, and passion to support the vibrant food ecosystem of Northwest Arkansas. From business development to processing, research, and gleaning, our staff works collaboratively to help food entrepreneurs, farmers, and community members succeed.

Darryl Holliday in a light blue shirt with an white background.

Darryl Holliday

Executive Director

479-575-4316  |  aficmco@uada.edu

Leading AFIC@MCO with a vision for innovation and growth, Darryl oversees all operations, ensuring the center fulfills its mission to empower food entrepreneurs and strengthen the regional food system.

Daymara Baker, Smiling with gray hair and glasses, wearing a sleeveless navy top with a pearl necklace, posing outdoors with greenery and flowers in the background.

Daymara Baker

Business Development Manager

479-575-6611  |  dbaker@uada.edu

With extensive experience in social enterprise and food entrepreneurship, Daymara helps entrepreneurs launch and grow their businesses through tailored guidance and strategic support.

Roni Mathis in a white chef's coat with a background of fields and mountains.

Roni Mathis

Commissary and R&D Manager

479-431-0124  |  rmathis@uada.edu
Roni manages the Commissary Kitchen and supports entrepreneurs in developing innovative food products, providing technical expertise and hands-on assistance.

Nanje Gowda wearing a striped shirt, standing confidently with a neutral expression.</p> <p>

Nanje Gowda

Processing Manager

Nanje leads the produce processing operations, transforming local harvests into value-added products while ensuring efficiency and compliance with industry standards. He also collaborates with food entrepreneurs to develop and produce their products according to their unique specifications, helping them bring their ideas to market.

Marissa Dull wearing a striped sweater smiles warmly, exuding a cheerful and inviting demeanor.

Marissa Dull

Gleaning Manager

Marissa oversees AFIC@MCO’s gleaning efforts, bridging the gap between local farms and community needs by reducing food waste and maximizing resource use.

Tabea Pauli wearing a black apron stands confidently in a well-equipped kitchen, ready to prepare a meal.

Tabea Pauli

Processing Intern

Tabea supports the processing team with a focus on learning and enhancing the efficiency of food production operations.

Lucy Ricco in glasses and a black shirt holds a bag, smiling.

Lucy Ricco

R&D Intern

Lucy contributes to research and development projects, working alongside Roni to help entrepreneurs refine and perfect their food products.

Together, our team is committed to fostering innovation, collaboration, and success for all who engage with AFIC@MCO.