Woodbury, NJ — October 21, 2025 — BestBuds Dispensary is proud to announce Kristy Straub, a Woodbury Heights native and Gateway Regional High School graduate, has joined the team as General Manager. Kristy brings a wealth of knowledge, compassion, and local pride to her role, helping lead BestBuds’ mission to educate, empower, and elevate the community through cannabis wellness.
Kristy holds a Master of Science in Medical Cannabis Science and Therapeutics from the University of Maryland School of Pharmacy—one of the nation’s first and most prestigious graduate programs focused on cannabis medicine. She also earned a Bachelor of Science in Psychology with a minor in Human Development and Family Science from Messiah University.
Her path to the cannabis industry has been anything but conventional. Kristy began her career in substance use prevention, risk assessment, and health education, supporting individuals and communities in achieving healthier lifestyles. Her own personal health journey led her to explore the therapeutic potential of cannabis—first experimenting with the plant at age 34 and discovering its powerful healing benefits. That experience ignited a lifelong passion to study cannabis science and advocate for its role in integrative wellness.
Kristy’s commitment to holistic health and wellness deepened as she cared for her mother through a battle with a severe autoimmune disease. This experience inspired her to champion whole-person, integrative approaches to care, emphasizing education, empowerment, and patient advocacy.
“Healthy people create healthy communities, and healthy communities change the world,” Kristy says. “I believe cannabis medicine plays a crucial role in achieving that.”
“Kristy embodies everything we value at BestBuds—knowledge, compassion, and a true commitment to helping others live healthier, more balanced lives,” said Amanda Terpstra, Co-Founder of BestBuds Dispensary. “Her deep understanding of cannabis science, her leadership, and her local roots make her an incredible addition to our women-led team.”
BestBuds is honored to welcome Kristy to serve the Woodbury community with her expertise, empathy, and unwavering dedication to helping others achieve their highest potential for health and well-being.
About BestBuds Dispensary
BestBuds is a women-owned and women-run dispensary located in Woodbury, NJ, co-founded by Laura Trujillo and Amanda Terpstra, also a native of the Woodbury area. Built on values of inclusivity, education, and empowerment, BestBuds is dedicated to fostering community wellness through high-quality cannabis products, thoughtful education, and compassionate care.
Media Contact:
Laura Trujillo
BestBuds Dispensary
laura@bestbudsnj.com
973-968-1089
bestbudsnj.com
