Ahimsa lights the way

Celebrate Freya Dinshah’s Retirement!!!

Jay and Freya Dinshah Honored at India Night 1975

Artist's rendering of historic moment when Freya Dinshah arrived in US in her signature white dress with blue roses.

American Vegan Society Speakers Bureau Freya Dinshah

Freya Dinshah

President

Freya Dinshah has been leading the American Vegan Society as president since 2000. On May 26 2025, at age 83, she will retire from administrative and executive duties.

Although Freya will step down as president and treasurer of American Vegan Society, she will continue in an advisory role as president emeritus and volunteer in areas of special interest. The best news for readers of American Vegan is Freya will continue in her favorite role as senior editor of the magazine!

AVS was a nonprofit, one-room, two-person volunteer organization in 1960 when Freya embarked on what became a life-long vocation. “The past 64 years have seen critical growth in vegan understanding and practice,” Freya says. “Contributing to this development are individuals, families, professionals, pioneers, adopters, thinkers, writers, activists, innovators, cooks, philosophers, nutritionists, artists, and many others on this multicultural collaboration. I have been privileged to meet and work with an amazing group of people on this journey, the best of friends! Together, we have taken veganism from the fringe into the center of world decision-making and cuisines.”

Reflections About Freya

“Working with Freya Dinshah and the American Vegan Society has been an incredibly rewarding educational experience for the students at the Academy of Culinary Arts. The opportunity to gain hands-on experience in creating and serving vegan cuisine greatly enhances their culinary education. Our partnership has spanned more than a decade, and the students truly enjoy and benefit from the opportunity.”

—Joseph T. Sheridan, MS, CEC, Director Academy of Culinary Arts

“When my wife and I became vegan 17 years ago, we learned about AVS and Freya’s work and were immediately inspired! We joined as lifetime members and have been richly nourished by Freya and this community ever since… Thank you so much, Freya!”

—Sherry Zitter, Brookfield MA

“… Freya has been a trailblazer and unwavering advocate for veganism for an impressive 64 years. She leaves an indelible mark on the movement she helped shape …”

—Brenda Davis, RD, Calgary Alberta Canada

“… Thank you so much Freya and the AVS Team for all that you have done and continue to do for the betterment of our societies (planet, animals, humans, etc.)”

—Paul Ihlenfeld, West Deptford NJ

“… I’m grateful to Jay, Freya, and AVS for setting me on this path. I have, in turn, done what I can to promote veganism locally.”

—Ron Elterman, Willits CA, AVS Life member

“I first met Freya and Jay at Woodbury Friends Meeting 36 years ago. They made a huge impression on me. Intelligent and committed, they have always come to mind, in addition to the Nearings, over the years especially when I was struggling. We can only hope to achieve their level of commitment. The world is a better place because of them. Happy Retirement!”

—Beth Mutch, Philadelphia PA

5 ways to celebrate Freya’s retirement:

1. Write a testimonial below about how Freya and AVS have helped your vegan journey.
You can also send us a letter via U.S. mail to AVS, 56 Dinshah Dr, Malaga NJ 08328.

2. Donate to American Vegan Society (AVS) in Freya’s honor.

3. Attend the American Vegan Garden Party on Sunday May 25 2025.

4. Watch and enjoy Freya’s talk at the 2022 American Vegan Garden Party.

5. Save the Date! Dinner Cruise on the Delaware! Another way to celebrate Freya’s retirement with Freya! Thursday October 2 2025. Stay tuned for more info!

Write a Testimonial

Let us know how Freya
and AVS have helped your vegan journey!

Donate in Honor of Freya

Enter your donation amount above. Click on DONATE NOW and complete the check out process.

Or send a check to AVS, 56 Dinshah Dr, Malaga NJ 08328 with “In honor of Freya” in the memo line.

Attend the American Vegan Garden Party

At: American Vegan Society, 56 Dinshah Drive, Malaga NJ

Freya’s talk at the 2022 American Vegan Garden Party

Enjoy Freya telling her story of coming to America and the early days of the American Vegan Society with her husband Jay Dinshah.

American Vegan Society

Veganism

AVS is a registered 501(c)(3) organization, EIN 226058533. All donations made to the American Vegan Society are tax deductible in accordance with applicable law..