Thanks to the hard work of the founders, this group is now a reality! Fermenta will make its grand debut at the Summer Beer Festival in Ypsilanti. Eleven breweries committed to brew beers in support of the group: Boatyard Brewing Company, Cotton Brewing Company, Dragonmead Brewery, Fenton Winery and Brewery, Griffin Claw Brewing Company, Pike 51, Saugatuck Brewing Company, Short's Brewing Company, Unity Vibration Kombucha Beer and Tea, Witch's Hat Brewing, and Wolverine State Brewing.
Women in all alcoholic craft beverage industries are welcome to join as an active professional. If a woman is not formally in the industry (i.e. a homebrewer), she can still join as an associate member. The group is working on its incorporation and will file for 501(c)(3) status with an eye towards educational seminars and hands-on workshops for members.
In addition to the traditional leadership roles, Fermenta also has subcommittees devoted to event planning, education and fundraising. Both the membership roster and the founding board read like a who’s who of women in beer. The first term officers are President: Pauline Knighton, Short's Brewing Company; Vice President: Angie Williams, Griffen Claw; Treasure: Ginny Sherrow, Fenton Winery & Brewery; Secretary: Megan Pruim, Saugatuck; Communications: Manda Geiger, Pike 51.
The ultimate mission of Fermenta is simple: it is a non-profit initiated by Michigan women, committed to diversity, camaraderie, networking, and education within the craft beverage industry. I’ll drink to that!
Any women who would like to get involved with Fermenta can email Pauline Knighton at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. and/or check out the Facebook page.
