Editor's note: This story was originally published Feb. 12 to honor Michael McGuffin's career with The American Herbal Products Association. The AHPA announced Tuesday that Michael McGuffin died on Monday, Feb. 17. His obituary, originally published in SupplySide Supplement Journal, can be found here.

The herbal products industry has grown, evolved and matured immensely over the last quarter-century due to the dedication, passion and perseverance of so many. But one person in particular has been wildly influential, thanks to his leadership, expertise and love of the herbal community. That, of course, is Michael McGuffin, president of the American Herbal Products Association since 1999.

In January, AHPA announced that McGuffin will transition out of the presidency and into a senior advisory role. Here, New Hope chatted with him about his tenure at the helm of the trade association and his hopes for AHPA and the entire industry’s future.

Michel McGuffin worked in the herbal products industry for 25 years before starting his tenure as president of the American Herbal Products Association.

What led you to join AHPA and become president?

Michael McGuffin: My tenure as AHPA president began in 1999, after serving as board chair from 1995 to 1998, but my commitment to the herbal products industry started long before that. I have been active in the herbal community since 1974, and throughout my career, I have been deeply invested in promoting the responsible and sustainable commerce of herbal products. AHPA provided the perfect platform to advance this mission through advocacy, education and industry leadership.

Related:Michael McGuffin, herbal products champion, dies at 73

Back then, did you anticipate such a long tenure?

MM: When I first took on the role of president, I certainly didn’t anticipate serving for over 25 years. My focus was on the immediate work ahead: strengthening AHPA’s role as an advocate for our industry and ensuring consumer access to safe, high-quality herbal products. But as the years passed, it became clear that this role was more than just a job, it was a calling. The work remained engaging and the challenges evolved, which kept me motivated to continue leading the association for so long.

What were the biggest challenges you faced as president?

MM: Navigating the ever-changing regulatory landscape has been one of the most persistent challenges. Over the years, we’ve seen shifts in public perception, regulatory scrutiny and evolving market dynamics. AHPA has had to continuously adapt while ensuring that our members remain compliant and competitive.

Another significant challenge has been protecting consumer access to herbal products and dietary supplements in the face of regulatory overreach. We have worked tirelessly to ensure that regulations are science-based [and] fair, and do not unnecessarily restrict access to safe, high-quality products that our family members, friends and neighbors seek to support for their personal health.

Related:30 supplement industry voices suggest changes to DSHEA

Looking back, what is your greatest achievement as president? Or, which accomplishment makes you proudest?

MM: There are many accomplishments I am proud of, but if I had to highlight one, it would be AHPA’s longstanding leadership in advocacy. One of the key victories was the enactment of the Dietary Supplement and Nonprescription Drug Consumer Protection Act, which established serious adverse event reporting for dietary supplements. This legislation strengthened consumer confidence in our industry and demonstrated our commitment to safety and accountability.

Additionally, AHPA’s Botanical Safety Handbook and Herbs of Commerce texts have become essential industry resources, helping to shape regulatory discussions and ensure consistency in herbal product standards.

But beyond the policies and publications, what I am most proud of is fostering an industrywide culture of collaboration and integrity. Seeing AHPA grow in influence and membership over the years has been incredibly rewarding.

What will your new role as senior advisor involve?

MM: As I transition into the role of senior advisor, my focus will be on ensuring a smooth leadership transition. I will work closely with the next AHPA president, sharing insights, institutional knowledge and guidance on key industry issues.

Additionally, I will continue to support AHPA members, particularly in areas where my expertise in regulatory affairs, legislative advocacy and industry strategy can provide value. While I will be stepping back from the day-to-day responsibilities of running the association, I remain committed to AHPA and its mission.

What is your best advice for the next AHPA president?

MM: First and foremost, listen to the members. AHPA’s strength comes from its engaged and passionate membership. Understanding their challenges and priorities will be key to success.

Second, be proactive, not reactive. The regulatory and legislative landscapes are constantly evolving, and AHPA must continue to anticipate and address issues before they become crises.

Finally, stay true to AHPA’s mission. Advocacy, education and resource development are the pillars of this association. Upholding these principles while adapting to the changing industry will ensure AHPA’s continued impact.

What is your hope for the future of AHPA and the wider herbal products industry?

MM: I hope AHPA continues to be a trusted leader and advocate for the herbal products industry. The association has a critical role to play in shaping policy, supporting businesses, and ensuring that consumers have access to safe, high-quality herbal products and dietary supplements.

For the industry as a whole, I hope to see continued growth, innovation and a strong commitment to sustainability and ethical business practices. Herbal products have a long history of supporting human health, and it is my hope that future generations will benefit from an industry that is transparent, science driven and consumer focused.

I am incredibly grateful for the past 25 years and look forward to seeing how AHPA and the industry continue to thrive in the years to come.

What do you hope your legacy as president will be?

MM: I hope my legacy is one of leadership, integrity and unwavering advocacy for the herbal product and dietary supplement industries. I want to be remembered as someone who strengthened the voice of our industry, built bridges between stakeholders and ensured that AHPA was a respected and influential force in regulatory and legislative matters.

Most importantly, I hope I have helped create an industry that is better positioned for the future—one that is more transparent, more accountable and more committed to quality than ever before.