Mark W. Bitz

Mark Bitz is a successful entrepreneur, author, and community leader. He is a graduate of Purdue, Cornell, and Harvard Universities, and a lifelong student of science, history, culture, government, economics, business, investing, and leadership. Mark is well-read, entrepreneurial, close to nature, thoughtful, and practical. He has traveled to all 50 states, over 50 countries, and 200 cities. He was named among the “CNY 40 Under 40” and is a Purdue University Alumni of Distinction. Mark teaches two courses on American culture at New College of Florida and is the author of Creating a Prosperous New York State, The Winning Practices of a Free, Fit, and Prosperous People, and the landmark work American Culture 2.0: Software That Elevates Everyone’s Life.

Working his way up to president, Mark owned and operated Plainville Farms between 1991 and 2007. Under his leadership, the company pioneered an all-natural-ingredient turkey line, animal-friendly practices, and turkeys grown on a vegetarian diet and without antibiotics. The business was the first turkey company to receive the American Humane Association’s “Free Farmed” Certification and became the largest provider of turkeys and turkey products to Wegmans Food Market, Whole Foods, and numerous other food retailers. Under his leadership, Plainville Farms won the Onondaga County Conservation Farm of the Year Award, the New York State Agricultural Society Business of the Year, and the American Culinary Institute Best Taste Award for Turkey.

Mark has coached youth sports, was instrumental in building the Northwest YMCA in Baldwinsville, New York, and has served as the chair, director, or trustee of numerous business, education, conservation and community organizations.