Horizons Spring 2024

COMUNA 13

Medellín Colombia

Horizons Spring 2024

Published three times per year by the California Agricultural Leadership Foundation for alumni, donors, supporters and friends.

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

CHAIR: Michael Young (35)

VICE CHAIR: Cameron Boswell (42)

SECRETARY/TREASURER: Emily Rooney (39)

Yissel Barajas (40)

Nikki Cossio

Correen Davis (45)

Rob Goff (45)

Fidela Irigoyen (21)

STAFF

PRESIDENT & CEO

Dwight Ferguson

Roger Isom

Dr. Joel Kimmelshue (37)

Sal Parra Jr. (46)

Paul Parreira (44)

Dr. Martin Sancho-Madriz

EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT

Abby Taylor-Silva (45)

DIRECTOR OF EDUCATION

Dane White

FINANCIAL MANAGER

Sharon Harney

DEVELOPMENT MANAGER

Jodi Litz

PROGRAMS MANAGER

Judy Sparacino (HF)

MARKETING & COMMUNICATIONS

COORDINATOR

Meredith Rehrman Ritchie (28)

ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT

Mia Mirassou

WRITER/EDITOR

Liza Robertson

DESIGN & ART DIRECTION

IE Design + Communications

CONTACT

831-585-1030 • info@agleaders.org

80 Garden Court, Suite 270 • Monterey, CA 93940 www.agleaders.org

Provide address changes by contacting the office. Content in this magazine may only be reproduced with permission. Contact mritchie@agleaders.org. The number in parentheses (#) after names indicates Ag Leadership Program class.

Leadership and Belonging

iI had the opportunity and pleasure of reading Dr. Peggy Sears Perry’s terrific Leadership Focus piece on belonging (page 10) before sitting down to write these words. It reminded me of the many ways our various stakeholders connect with the foundation, our programs and one another. It also made me think, as demonstrated by this issue of Horizons, how our connections to Ag Leadership are actually a reflection of our belonging to Ag Leadership.

Here’s some proof:

Class 53 fellows will always be members of their new and diverse cohort, and eventually, our entire alumni community.

Class 52’s international seminar will forever remind them of the once-in-alifetime experiences they shared. Our active and engaged alumni consistently connect in numerous ways – as evidenced

Gratitude for Former Alumni Engagement Manager

Former CALF Alumni Engagement Manager Deanna van Klaveren (32) resigned from her role with the foundation on Nov. 30. She first joined the foundation in October 2019 as a part-time alumni coordinator, responsible for the advancement of the foundation through the development

by the event photos, Alumni Council and L4 updates, D.C. Exchange piece, I grew with Ag Leadership features and the calendar of upcoming activities you will find in this issue. And importantly, our loyal and much-appreciated donors connect to us via their time and treasure, as noted in our donor spotlights.

I believe to know and to connect with Ag Leadership is a belonging. It’s a link, an association and an inclusion. And more importantly, it’s an alignment with our mission, vision and values.

In “Braving the Wilderness: The Quest for True Belonging and the Courage to Stand Alone” (2019), Brené Brown wrote, “True belonging is not passive. It’s not the belonging that comes with just joining a group. It’s not fitting in or pretending or selling out because it’s

Connections to Ag Leadership create a belonging to the foundation and its many programs.

and implementation of alumni relations and outreach programs. That position transitioned to full-time manager in line with the 2021 strategic plan.

As a staff member, van Klaveren worked closely with the Alumni Council and hundreds of our alumni – from helping organize dozens of events and learning opportunities to being a primary resource of information. As a volunteer, she had been involved in numerous alumni activities since commencing from the program in 2003.

By Dwight Ferguson CALF President and CEO

safer. It’s a practice that requires us to be vulnerable, get uncomfortable, and learn how to be present with people without sacrificing who we are.” That sounds a lot like leadership to me. Please enjoy the magazine and as always, contact me at dferguson@agleaders.org or 831-585-1030 if I can be of any service. ◆

Said CALF President and CEO Dwight Ferguson, “We are so appreciative to Deanna for the tremendous impact she made in her years as part of our team, with major strides achieved related to our alumni outreach and events, database updates to better serve our alumni and a dedicated focus on lifelong leadership learning that has engaged numerous alumni throughout our community.”

Deanna: We wish you all the best!

If you have any questions about alumni engagement activities, please contact CALF Executive Vice President Abby Taylor-Silva (45) at 831-585-1030 or ataylorsilva@agleaders.org.

Calendar

APRIL

3: Common Threads North Awards Dinner, Winters

8-10: Class 52 Seminar, Cal Poly Pomona

17: Class 54 Phase One Applications Due

30 - MAY 2: California Educational Exchange Program

MAY

9-11: Class 53 Seminar, Cal Poly San Luis Obispo

15: Class 54 Phase Two Applications Due

23: Region 11 Cultivating the Future Dinner, Imperial

JUNE

25-26: ILAC Social and Ag Tours, Monterey

27-28: 2024 Alumni Conference, Monterey

CALF Welcomes Two New Board Members

The California Agricultural Leadership Foundation (CALF) is pleased to welcome Nikki Cossio and Sal Parra Jr. as new members of the board of directors.

Nikki Cossio

Cossio is the founder and CEO of Measure to Improve LLC, which supports fresh produce industry producers and processors in measuring, improving and building credible sustainability programs that generate environmental, social and financial benefits. Part of a multigenerational California farming family, she has served on boards and committees for organizations such as International Fresh Produce Association, Specialty Crops Coordinating Council, the former Produce Marketing Association and United Fresh Center for Global Produce Sustainability. Cossio founded the Monterey County Sustainability Working Group in 2011 and was recognized in the 2019 Packer 25, an annual tribute highlighting leaders in the fresh produce industry.

For a full list of program, foundation and regional events, visit our events website at agleaders.org/events.

Updates

Sal Parra Jr. (46)

Parra Jr. is the director of farming for Burford Ranch, a multigenerational family operation that grows nuts, vegetables and row crops. He is also an owner and partner of Coyula Farms, a family-owned operation that grows almonds, pistachios, wheat, alfalfa, corn and Angus beef cattle. Parra serves on boards for the Fresno County Farm Bureau and James Groundwater Sustainability Agency. He is a member of Class VII of the Western Growers Future Volunteer Leaders Program. Parra Jr. earned his bachelor’s degree in agricultural business in 2008 and MBA in 2015, both from Fresno State. He previously served as a CALF Education Team liaison on the Ag Leadership Alumni Council.

Said CALF Board Chair Mike Young (35), “I am excited and honored that Nikki and Sal have graciously accepted our invitation to join the board of directors. Their rich background in production agriculture, coupled with their thought leadership and industry influence, will make them invaluable in supporting our vision of leaders united to strengthen California agriculture and sustainably supply the world. I look forward to the deep insights and strategic perspectives they will bring to propel our foundation forward and steer us to creating greater impact in our industry and world.”

CLASS 54 APPLICATIONS AVAILABLE

Phase one applications are due April 17 and phase two applications are due May 15. We need your help identifying and mentoring candidates for the program. Please start thinking about and talking with friends and colleagues who would be ideal candidates. You can find downloadable PDFs about the program and additional resources for candidates at agleaders.org/class54apply.

CALIFORNIA EXCHANGE UPDATE

This year we are bringing back our California Educational Exchange Program (California Exchange), focusing on a class of up to six and highlighting agricultural issues, challenges and opportunities occurring in Yolo County and surrounding areas. Applications were opened in January 2024 and the exchange will be held April 30 - May 2, 2024. For more information, contact CALF Programs Manager Judy Sparacino at jsparacino@agleaders.org or 831-585-1030.

CLASS 52 CHOOSES “EL CREDO DE FFA”

Class 52 fellows have selected a class project that reflects their values: to empower the people who work in agriculture to excellence regardless of race, status, language or other cultural barriers. The FFA Creed has been performed by countless FFA members since its adoption in 1930, but it was only in 2022 the California Agricultural Teachers’ Association adopted “El Credo de FFA,” a three-year pilot program for students to perform the creed in Spanish. Class 52 has pledged to donate $7,500 annually for three years and to work with California FFA to promote awareness of the program.

Get to Know

Krystal Abbott / Escondido

Krystal is a regional sales manager in the turf and ornamental market sector for Nufarm Americas, a century-old company that is one of the leading manufacturers and suppliers of plant protection products and seed treatments in the world. She delivers technical support to growers, distributors, retailers and superintendents in California, Arizona, Nevada and Hawaii. She is also a pest control adviser.

Hillari Bynum / Sacramento

Hillari is the director of marketing for Safe Food Alliance, a full-service food safety and agriscience company offering training, consulting and laboratory testing services, and for DFA of California, a trade association serving dried fruit and tree nut processors. She develops innovative communications to tell ag stories and digital tools to translate science to English.

Jeana Cadby / Atascadero

Jeana is the environment and climate director for Western Growers, a West Coast agricultural trade association that represents local and regional family farmers in California, Arizona, Colorado and New Mexico. She leads strategic initiatives to advance sustainable agriculture, accelerating solutions that adhere to scientific rigor, collaborative climate adaptation and enhancing grower resiliency.

Class 53 fellows were inaugurated into the program on Oct. 5, 2023.

Tomas Aguilar Campos / Mecca

Tomas is a district conservationist for the Natural Resources Conservation Service, a USDA agency that provides farmers, ranchers and forest landowners with financial and technical assistance to voluntarily put conservation on the ground. He leads the Indio office to assess the clients’ natural resources, including soil, water, air, plants, animals and energy. He is also a certified crop adviser.

Kyle Collins / Lodi

Kyle is the manager of North Valley operations for Allied Grape Growers, the state’s largest grower owned winegrape marketing cooperative that sells winegrapes to winegrape buyers in California and other states. He represents more than 150 member accounts in the Northern San Joaquin Valley and Sierra foothills and is responsible for the negotiation and sale of more than 30,000 tons of winegrapes annually.

Robert Donnelly / Fresno

Bob is the chief operating officer at Central California Almond Growers Association, a nonprofit grower-owned and serviceoriented cooperative and the world’s largest almond hulling and shelling operation. He oversees operations of the four almond hulling/shelling plants at the Kerman and Sanger facilities. He also directs the sales of all almond hull and almond shell byproducts for member growers and works with regulatory agencies.

Photos: Tomás Ovalle

Nick Edsall / Woodland

Nick is the orchard manager for Bullseye Farms, a diversified family farm operation specializing in row crops as well as orchard production and management. He is responsible for the development of approximately 5,000 acres of almonds, pistachios and walnuts, and he helps oversee the daily operations and management of permanent crops. He is also a partner of Benbow Stephens LLC, a pistachio farm.

Manuel

Gaitan / Indio

Manuel is the Imperial branch manager for Rain for Rent, a leading provider of irrigation solutions, including pumps, pipe, filtration and services that has been familyowned and operated since 1934. He oversees all aspects of the branch’s operations, which includes the financials, sales and marketing strategies and implementation of the company’s strategic plan.

Miguel Gomez / Watsonville

Miguel is a quality assurance auditor for Driscoll’s, the global market leader of fresh strawberries, blueberries, raspberries and blackberries that has been family-owned and operated for more than 100 years. He is responsible for applying established standard operating procedures across all production regions and contributes to developing best practices that enhance quality systems’ efficiency for Driscoll’s.

Deissy Ibarra / Delano

Deissy is the plant manager for Toor Farming’s Custom Almonds, a familyowned almond processing facility providing quality products to an international market. She oversees production, logistics and food safety. She has contributed ideas to increase the throughput and productivity of the plant and implemented BRCGS, Europe’s highest food safety standard.

Ariana Joven / Bakersfield

Ariana is a manager of government affairs for The Wonderful Company, a privately held global company that grows, harvests, bottles, packages and markets products such as fruits, nuts, wines and juices. She helps manage legislative and regulatory matters for Wonderful’s businesses and assists in advancing its commitment to corporate social responsibility through philanthropic projects.

Scott McArthur

/ Durham

Scott is a fifth-generation farmer and cattle rancher and the ranch manager of McArthur Livestock, his family’s Northern California operation that raises Angus and Wagyu cattle and grows timothy, alfalfa, grass hay and peppermint. In the winter, he manages winter grazing on several ranches; in the summer, he oversees cattle purchasing, hay farming, water reporting and water transfers.

Kurt Metheny

/

Santa Paula

Kurt is the director of harvesting for Limoneira Company, a vertically integrated farming company producing lemons, avocados, oranges, specialty citrus and other crops in California, Arizona and Chile. He oversees all lemon harvesting in California and Arizona and is expanding his understanding of key farming elements, including strategic water rights.

Jack Norton

/

Valley Springs

Jack is the vice president of field operations for Terpene Belt Farms, the world’s leading producer of hemp essential oil. He is responsible for all production operations – from farming to harvest processing – which includes 260 acres of hemp growing between the cities of Tracy and Byron, encompassing more than 40 varieties.

Daniel O’Connell / Sacramento

Daniel is a fifth-generation cattle rancher and partner in O’Connell Cattle Co., which raises registered Angus seedstock for commercial cattlemen. He is a partner in his family’s farm that grows walnuts, hay and more than 60 varieties of fresh fruit. Daniel is also the owner of O’Connell Solar Consulting, which represents farmers and processors who are implementing renewable energy systems.

Katie Panici / Bakersfield

Katie is a fourth-generation family member and the director of business support services for Kern Machinery, a family-owned John Deere dealership that provides ag, landscape and compact construction equipment solutions for the Central Valley. She assists with marketing and advertising, customer and employee events, travel planning, improving company-wide efficiencies and business expansion projects.

Michelle Paul / Rocklin

Michelle is the vice president–marketing at AgWest Farm Credit, a cooperative lending institution that provides financial products and services to the agriculture industry and rural communities. She collaborates with her counterparts in the marketing, learning, customer experience and credit teams to integrate operations and strengthen the new brand, products and services for the expanded territory.

Kristi Robinson / Clovis

Kristi is a second-generation pistachio grower and owner of K. Robinson Farms, which grows 80 acres of pistachios in Fresno County. She is the water and asset manager for her family’s Central Valley pistachio growing operation. She manages the diverse water resources of her family’s growing operations, spearheads the management of commercial assets and is involved in the day-to-day farming operations of her orchard.

Taj Samran

/ Turlock

Taj is a third-generation farmer and the vice president for Hilltop Ranch Inc., which processes and hulls/shells 40-50 million pounds of almonds annually. Additionally, he manages Samran & Sons Farming, his family’s farming operation that grows almonds and pistachios. In these roles, he is responsible for financial management, overseeing daily operations and ensuring long-term sustainability.

Joe Sequenzia

/

Roseville

Joe is the regional marketing officer at Zenith Agribusiness Solutions, a property and casualty insurance carrier specializing exclusively in California agriculture. He is responsible for all facets of the agency management process, including premium growth and retention, prospect pipeline development, market intelligence and key relationship management of agency partners, policyholders and the ag associations that support our industry.

Bryce Spycher

/ Turlock

Bryce is the senior manager–marketing order services at the Almond Board of California, a nonprofit organization that administers a grower-enacted federal marketing order under the supervision of the USDA. His role includes the management of industry statistics/ reporting and compliance programs and support of various industry board/ committee directives. His family operates an almond and peach farm.

Jodi Switzer

/ Ventura

Jodi is the water program director for the Farm Bureau of Ventura County, an organization that advocates for the county’s agricultural industry. In addition to various activities related to water supply issues, her primary role is manager of the Ventura County Agricultural Irrigated Lands Group; she leads a third-party coalition helping landowners and growers comply with water quality regulations.

Amanpreet Virk / Fresno

Amanpreet is a vineyard manager for Gallo Vineyards Inc., a winegrape growing company with operations throughout California. He manages more than 3,000 acres of winegrapes, focusing on labor needs, vineyard cultivation activities, water reporting, pesticide use and reporting, sustainability, budgeting and financials. He is a third-generation farmer, certified crop adviser and pest control adviser.

Trent Voss

/ Denair

Trent is a grower relations regional manager for Blue Diamond Growers, a grower-owned cooperative that is the world’s leading almond marketer and processor. He is responsible for establishing and maintaining the relationship between Blue Diamond and its growers/members by helping all parties obtain operational and business goals. He is a fourth-generation almond farmer and owner/operator of T Voss Farming.

a Belonging: Why Leaders Should Pay Attention

although it seems like life has gotten back to “normal” since the most intensive days of the pandemic, many organizations continue to grapple with the changes wrought by remote work and disconnected relationships. Even volunteer-based organizations are seeing a slow return of people willing to return to their previous levels of involvement. What’s going on?

Certainly, the disruption in our lives has been slow to heal. Mental health issues such as anxiety and depression are increasing for all age groups. U.S. Surgeon General Dr. Vivek Murthy has written about loneliness in his book “Together,” about which the New York Times said, “Murthy’s prescient message is about the importance of human connection, the hidden impact of loneliness on our health and the social power of community.”

Admittedly, the situation cannot be blamed entirely on the impact of the pandemic. Other factors at play include generational shifts in the workplace; we now have as many as four distinct generations of workers in the same organization. We know, from research, that their goals, values and language are often different enough from each other’s to create miscommunication and misunderstanding. The accelerating pace of change in the economic systems and geopolitical patterns, in addition to political polarization in this country, all contribute to a sense of isolation and apartness.

CULTIVATING BELONGING AT WORK

According to EY Belonging Barometer 3.0, a survey of employed adults from various organizations and industries across the globe, 75% of respondents have felt excluded at work.

This may be unfortunate, but why does it matter for leaders of organizations and businesses? What those at the top do and say has direct impact on the culture within an enterprise. How people feel about being there is right at the top of cultural priorities. And, research has shown that cultivating belonging at work is good for business. According to a study conducted in 2019 by the BetterUp Research Labs, organizations in which employees felt a strong sense of belonging saw the following results:

· Performance was better, resulting in wage increases and promotions.

· People were less likely to leave and more likely to recommend their workplace to others.

· Employees showed up for work more and took fewer sick days.

· Financial performance and profitability were enhanced due to increased productivity and savings in turnover costs and absences.

The research also pointed out the cost of people feeling excluded. When people don’t feel like they belong, they are less likely to be engaged in the work they do, and this can impact the success of the teams in which so much of work is performed.

Present in almost all organizations these days is an emphasis on diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI). An overlooked component of this movement is creating an intentional focus on belonging. A company can increase diversity, treat people fairly and include them, but these efforts can still come up short. Unless employees feel truly connected in their workplace, the full power of DEI is diminished. And, as noted above, employee engagement suffers. For

Research has shown that cultivating belonging at work is good for business.

By Peggy Sears Perry (9), Ph.D. CALF Core Faculty

Cal Poly Pomona

this reason, it is important to not only put in place the measures and tools that monitor DEI progress, but also to conduct employee engagement surveys. These instruments ask employees about how they feel about their role, whether they have what they need to perform well, how effective leadership communicates the vision, and do the employees feel seen and appreciated by their peers and supervisors. Without this data, DEI efforts may look good on paper but not really impact the people in the workspace.

WHAT’S A LEADER TO DO?

Fortunately, there are several approaches that have been shown to enhance a sense of belonging in organizations.

1. Be the change. Leaders need to connect with others and check in on how they are really doing. An emotionally intelligent leader knows that listening actively, fostering trust and creating genuine connection to team members create what authors Richard Boyatzis and Annie McKee term “resonant leadership,” an essential factor in guiding people to a shared vision.

2. Share the vision. Articulating the vision, helping people see how their contributions fit into the big picture, and why they are important, strengthens commitment and allows employees to realize their significance, no matter how small their role may be. Allowing for team members to find ways to learn and grow further enhances their sense of being an important part of a whole.

3. Be mindful of workload. While our seemingly disrupted economy and fast-paced business environment may spur a desire to strike quickly and

“Leaders who pay attention to how their people feel about where they work – and where they spend so much of their time and energy – can create an organization where everyone finds a place where they thrive and belong.”

–Dr. Peggy Sears Perry

increase the pace, the law of diminishing returns cannot be ignored. Expecting more and faster from already stressed teams can destroy any positive efforts toward improving employee engagement. This is where employee engagement surveys can be useful in taking the temperature of the workforce. And, the leader must be willing to learn and respond to the results.

4. Encourage mentoring. Traditional mentoring has enhanced the ability of newer employees when they are guided in building their skills by those with more experience. Why not extend the inherent benefits to others? Younger team members might have skills to share with those with longer tenure. Team members

with complementary abilities can be paired to enhance team performance and build the capacity of all members. Being valued for what a person brings to the work setting is sure to make them feel like they belong.

5. Host team-building activities. Bringing teams together for skill enhancement or simply for fun builds stronger relationships. Ensure that time is well spent and planned carefully so that the purpose is clear and realized. One way to “mix things up” is to rotate responsibility for team-building sessions, according to Meighan Newhouse, a Forbes Business Council member. Creating space in the calendar for these events also provides a breather (see point

No. 2 above). Debriefing sessions after projects have been completed and “checkin” space on meeting agendas are also ways to bring individuals together for bonding conversations.

6. Empowerment. Nothing says “you are valued and trusted” more than empowering someone to take on a task with permission to pursue it as they see fit. This differs from delegation, which is more of a “do this” and “do that” approach. True empowerment requires teaching, guidance and supporting – all essential tasks for effective leaders – until the team member has the competence and confidence to take over. It may take more time to truly empower someone, but the dividends are multiple – increased capacity in an employee and a clear message that they are an important part of the team.

WE ALL WANT TO BELONG

The responsibility for nurturing a sense of belonging among employees may seem to be outside the normal wheelhouse of a leader. In fact, we must make this an essential focus if we desire to effectively respond to the changing demands of the workplace and the emerging characteristics of newer generations of workers. We all want to belong. Younger generations, especially, desire closer relationships with their superiors and working in teams that exhibit positive social interactions. Leaders who pay attention to how their people feel about where they work – and where they spend so much of their time and energy – can create an organization where everyone finds a place where they thrive and belong. ◆

class 52 traveled to Panama, Colombia and Costa Rica in November 2023.

c Class 52 International Seminar

The purpose and associated learning objectives included immersion into different cultures, examining critical international issues from multiple perspectives, comparing and contrasting complex cultural dynamics, investigating leadership from various historical perspectives and dialoguing with policy leaders.

DAY 1/ Panama Viejo and Panama Canal

On the first day of the seminar, fellows visited Panama Viejo, the original location of the city built by Spanish settlers who arrived before any canal was built. The day included a stop at the Panama Canal, where fellows made their way to the Miraflores Locks on the Pacific side of the canal.

“Day one has already proven to be an exciting start to our experience, and we know our adventure will continue to evolve and unfold in unexpected ways.”

—Jeff Borum, Mallvinder Kahal, Jeannette McClure

The overarching theme for the international seminar was to consider “How does leadership benefit the led versus the interests of the leader?”

DAY 2/ A City of New Beginnings

In Panama Viejo, fellows realized the disparity between the social classes of the area. Passing from the revitalized urban center of Old Town and into the greener areas of the former American Zone, fellows came face-to-face with the civil unrest that was evident in the streets. The day continued with a visit to Puente de la America (Bridge of the Americas) and a drive through Balboa, a small town in the Canal Zone.

“As usual, the program challenged us with a full day of education and learning opportunities. Panama is a vibrant country that has consistently been challenged and reborn. We are seeing firsthand the tension of large decisions that pit the economy against the environment and the disparities found in a growing and rapidly modernizing 500-year-old city.”

—Andrew Genasci, Sean Landberg, Katey Taylor

By Liza Robertson CALF Writer/Editor

DAY 3/ Finding the “American Dream”

Fellows spent the day learning about the mass human migration through the Darién Gap, the history of Panama and some of its leaders who dreamed of the “American” continent and agricultural imports and exports.

“It was a day packed with emotion and thought-provoking questions that didn’t all have tidy, complete answers. Each fellow reflected on our individual experiences of the American dream, while outside our rooms, tear gas canisters exploded as our friends in Panama struggled with the Latin American version of their own American dream. It leaves us all wondering about our own lives and how we can continue to lead in a world that asks us to embrace complexity and seek better for all.”

—Michelle Allen-Ziegler, David Ogilvie, Reid Robinson

Comuna 13, Medellín

DAY 4/

¡Vamos a Medellín!

Fellows left Panama City and made their way to Medellín, Colombia. The group not only learned about artisan ceramics that are cultural touchstones in this area, but also the value an intergenerational family business can bring to an entire community by providing employment, economic opportunity and a sense of identity and pride.

“Our first day in Medellín gave a glimpse into the generations of people who have made Medellín what it is today. We experienced the richness of the work culture and beauty this city has to offer. Though we have many more days ahead of learning and growth, this was most certainly a beautiful experience to take back to our own lives and work.”

—Jeff

Borum, Amanda Gorter, Jacylyn Stokes

DAY 5/

Life in Constant Fear...and a Little Bit of Hope

As they embraced their second day in Colombia, fellows considered how it would feel to deal with everyday violence, have valuable community resources provided by someone who is also responsible for killing your loved one and how spectral thinking (not everything is black and white) can help with understanding Colombian history.

“Being mindful of the questions posed about spectral thinking, we took the opportunity to seek out the gray area in all aspects of the day. Depending on where we stand – physically, emotionally, mentally, spiritually – we can all look at the same thing and see something different.”

—Christopher Greer, Jeff Iniguez, Jeannette McClure

DAY 6/

Community Perseverance

Fellows found themselves immersed in a complex culture, enveloped by a community full of hope, perseverance and resilience. They learned the story of the local people and what it took to create the community that welcomed them. The day’s activities were planned in order to help fellows learn through physical and emotional experiences.

“The last day in Medellín left a permanent, deep imprint on our hearts. There was no way we could have predicted the gravity and intensity of what we were about to experience. The day’s activities included a tour of one of the 16 communities built by hand on steep mountainsides surrounding Medellín. It is easy to see the care and cost invested to create this community.”

—Cornelio

Blanco, Seth Fiack, Anne Megaro

DAY 7/

Cogelo Suave (“take it easy”)

In Cartagena, Colombia, fellows visited the Convento de Santa Cruz de la Popa, the highest point above the city, and Castillo de San Felipe de Barajas, the defensive location that was responsible for protecting the Spanish port of Cartagena.

“This view provided a stark contrast from the west to the east of the city, from working class to upper class. This city requires both. One side provides significant investment within the city and the other provides rich culture and a historic connection and energy that cannot be manufactured no matter how much money you invest in it.”

—Chris McGlothlin, Diana Melero, David Ogilvie

Inflexión Memorial Park, Medellín

DAY 8/ ¡Cartagena BACANO! (“top notch”)

On Colombia’s Election Day, fellows experienced the social and economic struggles that are constant in Cartagena and other surrounding towns. In the oceanside community of La Boquilla, fellows learned about an area listed at the lowest level of the government’s socioeconomic status indicators. They met with the women of DAMARTES, a group of female artists who have established an innovative handicraft market, and learned from Kilele Son, a local community group that teaches English to youth and provides educational resources.

“Our time in La Boquilla really demonstrated the power of cultural exchange. Both DAMARTES and Kilele Son passionately believe in bettering their community and supporting their families in entrepreneurial ways. Through their efforts they’ve given a voice to La Boquilla.”

—Michelle Allen-Ziegler, Amanda Gorter, Christopher Greer

DAY 9/ Mindset

Following a visit to San Basilio de Palenque, the first free African town of the Americas, advice from their guide stuck with the fellows: “If you want to see something you have never seen, you have to do something you have never done.” They set off for a meeting with the Colombian Peace Corps with a renewed focus.

“Through experiencing new cultures, we challenge our existing mindsets and develop new ones and ultimately express ourselves in new ways. As we end our time in northern Colombia, we will take the following leadership lesson with us: people are people no matter your location. A single person can make a difference by identifying a need and leaning in.”

—Kasey DeAtley, Anna Nakamura Knight, John Wiersma

DAY 10/ Happy Halloween from Bogotá!

As they headed off for their final destination in Colombia, fellows learned about similarities between Bogotá and California and discussed solutions for both locations. They were reminded of the importance of putting themselves in the shoes of others and reflected on how to better engage with discussions on migration in their own communities.

“Learning more about the migrant journey was the most impactful part of our day. It really tied together what we saw in Panama with what we have seen in other parts of Colombia. This country –like our own – is a melting pot of cultures. Immigration and integration are complex topics, but we are constantly reminded of the good, the beautiful and the important ways that life is enriched through blending our cultures and experiences."

—Cornelio Blanco, Jeannette McClure, Reid Robinson

DAY 11/ The Sights, Smells and Tastes of Bogotá

At the Paloquemao Market, fellows were thrilled to find an array of local

DAMARTES, Cartagena

Paloquemao Market, Bogotá

agricultural products. They also saw examples of creative street art and visited Bogotá’s Gold Museum. In a district known as the Bronx, fellows learned about the neighborhood with a past reputation as one of the most dangerous in Bogotá.

“We have seen firsthand many of the realities of the city of Bogotá. We met wonderful people and heard personal stories reminding us of the power of education, empowering others, having a clear vision and the willingness to overcome obstacles big and small. We will remember to never stop dreaming and appreciate the opportunities we are given.”

—Sean Landberg, Danny Murillo, Katey Taylor

DAY 12/

Costa Rica ¡Pura Vida!

As the fellows prepared to leave Colombia, they reflected on the country’s story as they made their way to sessions at the Universidad de la Paz in Costa Rica, which focused on indigenous people and their rights, countering illicit trade and preventing transnational organized crime.

“While we were sad to leave the gorgeous University for Peace campus, a soothing drive through the Costa Rican countryside gave us time to appreciate everything our final destination has to offer and prepare for an evening with U.S. Embassy staff.”

—Kasey DeAtley, Anne Megaro, Jacylyn Stokes

DAY 13/

Past, Present and the Servant Leaders Who Got Us Here

As their journey reached its final days, fellows continued to experience the culture, history and leadership of Costa Rica through unique lenses. Meetings at the U.S. Embassy expanded on the role of USDA’s Foreign Agricultural Service across the globe and about agriculture as a critical component of trade.

“To learn about the history and leaders of the past in Costa Rica is to understand

the present, but even more so, to shape the future. As we near the final days of our trip, and the last few months of the program, we have all changed. This change will help us to return home and become the servant leaders that Ag Leadership inspires us to be.”

—Kasey DeAtley, Anne Megaro, Jacylyn Stokes

DAY 14/ A Great End

The first stop of the seminar’s last day was at EARTH University, located about halfway between the capital city of San José and the Caribbean port city of Limón. The fellows eagerly learned about the university’s work, particularly as it relates to agriculture. After a tour of the university, fellows had their final synthesis and class dinner.

“While we can’t wait to get home to our friends and families after what for nearly all of us was the longest time we have ever been away, I can’t help but be a little sad that it is over.”

—Andrew Genasci, Jeff Iniguez, John Wiersma

DAY 15/

So Long, Latin America –Thanks for All the Memories!

As they reflected on their international experience and prepared to go home, a wide range of emotions were elicited for the fellows.

“This experience has taught us that life is not black and white; it’s often a mix of colors and a series of contradictions. Our journey down the path of spectral thinking has opened our eyes to the complexities of life. We expect this will temper our knee jerk reactions to issues we see in our country. We will work towards solutions that balance our own interests with the interests of others and strive for sustainable solutions. These experiences will have a lasting effect on our leadership into the future. Mindsets are changing. We will be different in this world.”

—Grant Cremers, Seth Fiack, Diana Melero

Bogotá

San José, Costa Rica

2023

Learning objectives:

· Gaining an understanding of complex issues and situations affecting California agriculture from various perspectives.

· Gaining awareness of tools for engagement with California agriculturalists on challenging topics.

· Providing a forum for fellows to share perspectives and real-life examples of complexities inherent to their priorities from an agency and individual point of view.

DAY 1 / Fresno County

Belmont Nursery / Nursery Production and Plant Research (photos 3, 6)

Ag Leadership Welcome

DAY 2 / Fresno County

Water Issues Panel (photo 4)

Fresno Irrigation District, Friant Kern Canal and Pump Station / Water Issues from the Field

Booth Ranches / Citrus Production

The Mill at Kings River / Olive Oil Production

Abundant Harvest Organics / Regenerative Ag Discussion, Organic Poultry and Fruit Production (photo 2)

DAY 3 / Tulare & Kern Counties

Family Tree Research Center / Fruit Variety Research

Western Milling / Livestock Feed (photo 7)

Seventeen participants from various federal agencies met with alumni and other stakeholders in Regions 6, 7 and 8 for the September 2023 Washington, D.C. Educational Exchange Program (D.C. Exchange).

Tulare County Ag Commissioner / Corcoran Levee Discussion, Outward Mindset Learning Module

Dairyland Farms / Dairy Tour (photo 9)

Camp Family Museum / Meet & Greet

DAY 4 / Kern County

Pandol Brothers / Table Grape Harvest and Labor Discussion (photo 8)

Treehouse California Almonds / Almond Processing

Delano Huller & Sheller / Transportation Discussion

Redhouse Beef / Beef Production and Local Markets

H-2A Housing Discussion

Region 8 Alumni Dinner

DAY 5 / Kern & San Luis Obispo (SLO) Counties

Lost Hills Community Center / Health, Education and Wellness

The Wonderful Company / Pistachio Production

Austin Hope Winery / Wine Industry Overview

DAY 6 / SLO County

Pacific Coast Farming / Winegrape Harvest Bonipak Produce / Plant Health and Vegetable and Berry Packing and Production (photo 5)

Ocean Breeze International / Cut Flower and Avocado Production (photo 6)

DAY 7 / SLO County

Madonna Road Farmers Market / Market Overview

Cal Poly San Luis Obispo / Campus Tour, Grant Projects, Exchange Synthesis

Finale Dinner

PARTICIPANTS

JuliAnna Arnett

USDA Food and Nutrition Service

Robert Boenish State Department

Keegan Cooke International Trade Administration

John Crowe USDA Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service

Paul DiSalvo U.S. Environmental Protection Agency

Hillary Fleak USDA Office of Budget and Program Analysis

Harrison Grafos

USDA Foreign Agricultural Service

Bernadette Juarez

USDA Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service

Dan Kovich

USDA Foreign Agricultural Service

Kelly Maguire

USDA Economic Research Service

Jim Monke

Congressional Research Service

Stephanie Morris

USDA Office of the Chief Economist

Michelle Ranville

USDA Office of Pesticide Management Policy

Roger Rodriguez Rios

Department of Labor

Rebecca Rowles

Department of Labor

Alissa Tafti

U.S. International Trade Commission

Tanika Whittington

USDA Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service

THANK YOU TO OUR VOLUNTEERS!

Jim (32) and Julie Beecher

Leeann Bettencourt (50)

Jeff Boldt (40)

Eric Bream (48)

Jared Britschgi (47)

Carson Britz (43)

Bill (6) and Carol Chandler

John Chandler (44)

Paul Crout (48)

Chris Darway (25)

Leroy and Francis Espericueta

Robert Flores (HF)

Dustin (44) and Lindsay Fuller

Keith (24) and Jennifer Gardiner

John Gardiner (51)

Rob (35) and Kelly Geis

Rob (45) and Joyel Goff

Daniel Hartwig (49)

Mylène Hermier (51)

Tom Ikeda (26)

Julia (34) and Jorge Inestroza (46)

Jeff (18) and Sharon Koligian

Mitch (31) and Teresa Millwee

Kel (51) and Katie Mitchel

Heather Mulholland (44)

Brian Neufeld (45)

Brenda Ouwerkerk (28)

Beth (25) and Andrew Pandol

Sal Parra Jr. (46)

Justin (44) and Rachelle Perino

Vernon (41) and Carol Peterson

Todd Snider (41)

Dan Sutton (40)

Michael Turnipseed (12)

Bill (32) and Pam Van Skike

Ivor (39) and Brooks Van Wingerden

Kim (32) and Tom Vetsch

Sarah Woolf (27)

Mike (35) and Jennifer Young

Kern County

REFLECTIONS

“I’ve been in agriculture my whole life, from a farm in the Midwest to the farm bill on Capitol Hill. The California Ag Leadership Foundation’s D.C. Exchange expanded my appreciation for different kinds of agriculture, issues and networks by seeing them up close.”

—Jim Monke, Congressional Research Service

“Participating on the D.C. Exchange selection committee and home hosting for the program was a unique mutual learning opportunity. The exchange participants are committed to supporting cohesive agriculture programs through their respective roles in Washington, D.C. and many expressed sincere empathy for the challenges faced by California farmers. I was energized by everyone’s eagerness to learn and experience agriculture firsthand. Through Ag Leadership’s guidance, a mutual trust with program alumni and industry experts quickly formed, which allowed for honest and unbiased discussions. I truly enjoyed sharing my knowledge, experiences and family agriculture story through this Ag Leadership extension.”

—Leeann Bettencourt (50)

“The 2023 D.C. Exchange program was a life-changing experience, taking us from the halls of Washington, D.C. to the fields of California. Being a part of the class selection team in D.C. was such a privilege, and hosting our own farm tour in Kern County was equally rewarding. The program creates a unique opportunity to connect people within the federal government with a boots-on-theground experience of California agriculture. Throughout our day in Region 7, we discussed vital topics, heard from different perspectives and brainstormed big ideas. A true Ag Leadership experience!”

—John Gardiner (51)

Engage

Alumni Council Message

By Heather Mulholland (44) Alumni Council Chair

Alumni Council Retreat

In November 2023, the Alumni Council (AC) gathered in Avila Beach to plan and prepare for 2024. We use the retreat to reflect on the purpose of areas where alumni are engaged, gather ideas for activities and programs and to check in on goals set from last year. We started the day with a synthesis around our fall book club selection, “Trust & Inspire” by Steven M. R. Covey. AC members connected around the book’s teachings and how they were reminded of the importance of trusting themselves and others as well as how to inspire their teams to be at their best.

We also set action items for 2024, including opportunities for outreach, supporting the foundation with fundraisers and gathering contact information for alumni and honorary fellows. The AC spent time digging into the purpose of our regional activities, identifying various ways to strengthen in-person events

and learn from one another as we plan and host. We also focused on ways to make AC meetings more impactful and provided staff with ideas for informing and supporting the AC’s activities. Several thoughts were brought forward around how to more effectively engage with class liaisons to best communicate, connect and keep up with all our alumni classes moving forward.

Prospective Applicants for Class 54

One of the most important things we can do as alumni is bring forward applicants for the upcoming class who have a passion for California agriculture, show a high propensity to make an impact and are demonstrating leadership in their actions in their families, communities, businesses and on behalf of California agriculture. The AC’s goal is to host prospective applicant events in each of the 11 regions throughout the state. We look forward to seeing you! ◆

Photo: DWR

Update

Alumni Learning

Lifelong Leadership Learning (L4) Seminar: Rethinking your Leadership Strengths

At the alumni L4 seminar held in early November at Cal Poly San Luis Obispo, the 28 attendees learned about the Strengthscope® assessment, which helped build upon other assessments used during the program. Alumni were guided through their individual results and worked with each other to build their own personal goals. The seminar helped attendees rethink how they connect and lead in their work, community and home environments. The interactive and engaging seminar was facilitated by Manpreet Bains (43); Dr. Erin Gorter (50), CALF core faculty member at Cal Poly San Luis Obispo; and Dr. Amanda Crump, CALF core faculty member at UC Davis. Thank you to Bayer for its generous sponsorship of this L4 seminar. Visit agleaders.org/alumni for more information about L4 opportunities. ◆

Leaders Are Readers Book Club

Winter - Book club members have finished their winter session selection, “The Trust Edge” by David Horsager, who was also the speaker at this year’s Ag Leadership Alumni World Ag Expo Breakfast in February.

Spring - The spring book club selection is “Hidden Potential: The Science of Achieving Greater Things” by Adam Grant. The book offers a new framework for raising aspirations and exceeding expectations. Grant weaves together evidence, insights and storytelling to show that growth is not about the genius you possess, but about the character you develop. Grant explores how to build the character skills and motivational structures to realize our own potential, and how to design systems that create opportunities.

Memberships are $150 annually or $50 per session. If you would like to join the book club, contact the CALF office at 831-585-1030.

Thank you to everyone who helped make our events a success!

Dean Brown Foundation Dinner

AUG. 31 / SHELL BEACH

$10,000 raised

Anthony Bozzano (43)

Jim McGarry (43), chair

Jim Stollberg (35)

Region 9 Golf Tournament

SEPT. 11 / CAMARILLO

$45,000+ raised

Committee

Luis Calderon (49)

Yezmin Carrasco Valle (50)

Jason Cole (42)

Bailey Diioia (43)

Edward Grether (47)

Susan Josue (43)

Scott Klittich (43)

Helen McGrath (43)

Mike Nuñez (29), chair

Sponsors

AGRX

AgWest Farm Credit Brokaw Nursery LLC

Calavo

Driscoll’s

Flying M Ranch

Granite Peak Partners

Index Fresh

Malachi 3 Foundation Mission Produce

Otto & Sons

Dr. Peggy Sears Perry

Redox

Reiter Affiliated Companies

Texas Agricultural Lifetime Leadership Reception

SEPT. 12 / MODESTO

Bill Lyons (12)

Region 9 Social

SEPT. 25 / BAKERSFIELD

Lucas Espericueta (45), chair

Jim Manassero (1) Memorial Lunch

NOV. 2 / SALINAS

Committee

Grant Cremers (52)

Jensen Devaurs (43)

James Ewart (49), chair

Laura Giudici Mills (29)

Johnna Hepner (46)

Jazmin Lopez (48)

Danielle McShane (43)

Alumni L4 Seminar

NOV. 9 / CAL POLY

SAN LUIS OBISPO

Manpreet Bains (43)

Dr. Erin Gorter (50)

Dr. Amanda Crump

Sponsor

Bayer

Alumni Gathering / MJC Harvest Dinner

NOV. 11 / MODESTO

Yvonne Sams (45)

Alumni Events

GATHERING

Alumni, core faculty and staff connected at Avila Beach following the L4 seminar.

LIFELONG LEARNING

Alumni and core faculty members led the L4 seminar.

Leading California’s Largest Farm Organization

By Meredith Rehrman Ritchie (28) CALF Marketing & Communications Coordinator

sShannon Douglass (46) has been a steadfast supporter of the California Farm Bureau for the past 20 years, serving in numerous roles at the local and state level. Her involvement led her on a path to become the first female president of the 29,000-member organization.

Before being elected president in December 2023, Douglass had served as first vice president since 2017. She was also a Glenn County Farm Bureau director, Young Farmers and Ranchers State Committee chair, Leadership Farm Bureau graduate and participant in American Farm Bureau Federation’s Partners in Advocacy Leadership program. Douglass said these and other experiences – including Ag Leadership – prepared her for the full-time president position, which she knows will come with plenty of successes and challenges.

“California Farm Bureau represents tremendous diversity with commodities and people, and we try our best to represent all of them,” she said. “There are many moments when I’m glad I have the skills I learned through the Ag Leadership Program. Whether it’s working on issues or with people, I use these important skills daily. Crucial conversations, for example, have been incredibly helpful when working with people.”

Douglass and her husband, Kelly, own Douglass Ranch in Orland, which raises cattle and grows walnuts, corn and forage crops. She is the co-founder of CalAgJobs, an online listing of employment opportunities in California agriculture. She also serves on the Glenn County Fair board, Hamilton City FFA advisory board and the Center for Regenerative Agriculture & Resilient Systems Leadership Council.

With all her roles, Douglass has had to make adjustments in her life. She said she’s thankful for receiving support from her family and colleagues, including her CalAgJobs business partner, Miranda Driver (49). “I remember a seminar during Ag Leadership when we discussed balance,” said Douglass. “Balancing life is like balancing on a bicycle; you’re not always perfectly balanced. The program taught us how to be present where you are and continue to improve.”

Adapting, Collaborating and Advocating

Douglass is the second Ag Leadership alum to lead California Farm Bureau; Paul Wenger (17) served in the role from 2009-2017. She understands the importance of its mission to protect family farms and ranches. “Agriculture is under tremendous pressure and battling so many issues, whether it’s regulatory, legislative, generational changes or overall industry issues. Many people we work with do not have an ag background, so that contributes to the challenges. Farm Bureau is 105 years old, so we’re looking at modernizing and adapting.”

In her leadership position, Douglass wants to prioritize collaboration. “We have a ton of stakeholders and viewpoints and I believe we are much better when we work cohesively,” she said. “Our goals and strategies should be in alignment. Ag Leadership training taught me to recognize that I’m not the smartest person in the room. When we empower those around us to find better ways to improve, that’s critical. We find substantially better solutions as a group and get better results.”

Douglass also encourages everyone in agriculture to be an advocate. “Some people in the industry feel that to be a voice and advocate for agriculture, they must do a lot. But that’s not the case,” she said. “I want people to use their voices in whatever way they can to raise awareness about agriculture. If you’re on social media or just having a conversation with non-ag friends and colleagues, share your ag life in a simple and casual way. We are a small percent of the population, but we can have a big impact.”

I grew with Ag Leadership: “We know the program will make us better leaders for agriculture. What I did not expect was to become a better businessperson, wife and mom. These are also significant. I’ve been so appreciative of all my Ag Leadership experiences.”

Alumni Reunions

By John Weiler (22)

The Minnesota Twins just won the World Series, Magic Johnson announced he was HIV positive, George Bush was president, 911 was just an emergency phone call and none of us had any idea what a pandemic was. It was November 1991. Thirty fellows (we weren’t even called fellows at that point) gathered in Sacramento to form Class 22 of the California Agricultural Leadership Program.

Thirty years later — after many kids and grandkids, several weddings, a couple of funerals and a lot of life experiences later — 16 alumni and nine spouses gathered for a reunion in Crescent City, Calif. We had the opportunity to see what an economic and social powerhouse Alexandre Family Farm (Blake and Stephanie) has become in that region. All of us came away impressed and proud of what our classmate has accomplished. We know that the Ag Leadership Program was a key component and that each of us might have contributed a tiny part ourselves.

By Beth Pandol (25)

Class 25 (pictured above) in October 2023 gathered at the beautiful Rancho Canada de Los Pinos, home of classmate Doug Circle and his wife, Jan. Approximately 29 class members and spouses/partners enjoyed the beautiful ranch in Santa Ynez. “Jan and I enjoy doing it to keep up the spirit of the group,” said Doug. “It was such an important program in all our lives and the relationships that were created. It’s fun for us because everybody pitches in, just like during our class time, and we pull off a great event. It’s kept us well connected every few years.”

The first night included a barbecue provided by the Circles and tours of the winegrape harvest in the surrounding vineyards. Classmates enjoyed a bit of the same wine that evening. During the day, the group enjoyed hiking, walking tours, great food and catching up. Since Class 25 learned so many valuable skills during the program, the group even did a mini “synthesis,” with each member providing a summary of their current circumstances. Grandchildren, children, travels, new hobbies, new beginnings, retirements and some sad moments were, as always, met with compassion and friendship by the group. As the weekend closed, the class members vowed to get together again soon, and were extremely grateful to the Circles for opening their beautiful home and ranch for the reunion.

By Abby Taylor-Silva (45)

Ten members of Class 45 gathered in Oceanside in mid-January to reconnect, revisit program learnings and enjoy time together. The class was delighted to have Dr. Peggy Perry (9) join them for a discussion focused on revisiting power stages, based on Janet Hagberg’s book - “Real Power: Stages of Personal Power in Organizations” - as well as their now 9-year-old leadership models. Taking the time to connect about the leadership goals from their time in the program and compare those to today’s

priorities was impactful. The group also enjoyed lunch and a tour at One Kitchen Collaborative, a nonprofit dedicated to creating solutions to reduce food waste while addressing food insecurity in its community through catering, food production and education programs.

I grew with

Darcy Vlot (51) is the CFO of three first-generation, family-owned ag operations: Vlot Calf Ranch Inc., Cross Creek Farms and Dairyland Huller. She and her husband own and manage 3,000 acres in Chowchilla. The ranches encompass a cattle feed lot and custom calf ranch for dairy and beef calves; dairy facility; almond huller; and the cultivation of crops such as corn, wheat, alfalfa and almonds. She is a member of the Tenaya Guild of Valley Children’s Hospital, an active participant in her local church and serves as the dairy leader for Alview-Dairyland 4-H. Vlot graduated from Chapman University with a degree in social sciences.

“Ag Leadership helped me sharpen specific qualities; doing so gave me the confidence, as a woman in the ag industry, to use my voice to ask questions, share opinions and engage.”

Jack Vessey (34) is the president of Vessey & Company – a grower/packer/ shipper of leafy greens in California’s Imperial Valley – and the fourth-generation family member to be involved in the 100-year-old company. After attending Cal Poly San Luis Obispo, he returned home to begin his family and career and give back to the community. Vessey is very active in his community and the farming industry. He is the past president of the Holtville Rotary Club and Imperial Valley Vegetable Growers Association (IVVGA). He currently serves on the boards of IVVGA, Western Growers Association and California Leafy Greens Marketing Agreement.

“If you want to be a leader who can help change the world and help California agriculture continue to feed the nation and beyond, the Ag Leadership Program is an excellent first step.”

Get to know the four alumni featured in our outreach campaign from September through December. Read their compelling testimonials at agleaders.org/alumni/i-grew-with-ag-leadership/

Joyce Jong (39) is a multigenerational poultry farmer in Southern California, serving Asian retail markets with fresh egg products for more than three decades. Since 2018, she has also been the senior project manager for the City of Riverside, leading food systems and sustainability initiatives and related economic development programs with stakeholder partners. Jong received a master’s degree in agriculture and management from UC Davis and an MBA from California State University, Sacramento. She serves as a board member on several local ag organizations, including the Riverside County Farm Bureau.

“Ag Leadership helped me gain confidence in being a voice and advocate for agriculture, take action on important opportunities and to not be complacent in key issues that impact agriculture.”

Tou Her (45) is the assistant general manager of water resources for the Turlock Irrigation District, where he has worked for more than 26 years. He is responsible for water resources and regulatory affairs, hydrology, civil engineering and other functional areas. Her is of Hmong decent and immigrated to the U.S. in 1980. Prior to coming to the U.S., the Her family farmed the hillsides of Laos for generations. He is a member of the Southeast-Asian American Professionals Association board, a member of the Alliance Church of Merced service team and volunteers in his community. He holds a bachelor’s degree in civil engineering from Cal Poly San Luis Obispo and is a licensed professional civil engineer in California.

“Ag Leadership provided me with the ability and tools to strategically manage complicated matters while navigating politics, differing interests and a broad range of opinions.”

The Finest Educational Experience of My Life

fForty-two years ago, a family illness turned my life inside out. I was living in New York and working in the film business, a career I had planned since middle school. My undergraduate degree was in drama; my years of full-immersion graduate school started behind the wheel of a truck on the streets of New York City –taking orders, hauling equipment, mopping studio floors, gaining membership in the craft unions and eventually being hired as a television producer. But something was eating me up.

The Big Apple to Farm Life

I knew enough at the age of 30 to realize that the only similarity between the words “money” and “meaningful” was the letter “m.” I’d planned on going back to California one day, but not to take on a new occupation whose only similarity with film production was the letter “f.” Which seemed fitting, since I barely knew one end of a tractor from the other, had never lived outside of big cities and the only things I had ever grown were in the back yard. I didn’t have a single friend who was a farmer. I expected I would fail remedial farming, just as I failed fourth grade penmanship. The prime rate was 21.5%. Bankruptcies were everywhere. I had no idea what help lay in store.

After a couple of years, Tim O’Neill (10) encouraged me to apply for Ag Leadership. I was turned down. But it was a kind, helpful rejection; the written application, the interview process and the thoughtful follow-up from an interview committee member helped me understand just how unqualified I still was and what I needed to accomplish before applying again. None involved farming.

My second try was successful, sending me on a two-year journey that was the finest educational experience of my life. It was also a hell of a lot of work, especially for my wife, since we had two small children. When it was over, she didn’t even get a lousy T-shirt, but she did get a better husband. Two years was just the start. The subsequent years that I spent as a regional chair, on the foundation board and on interview committees were a bonus.

Why Do I Still Support Ag Leadership?

It has been nearly 40 years since my Ag Leadership experience. One reason I still support the program is the satisfaction I get from watching those uncertain young people I remember sweating their way through their interview grow into articulate, disciplined and thoughtful leaders inside and outside of California agriculture. Instead of the pig-headed yokels our enemies would like us to be, Ag Leadership graduates stand before the public as examples of the diversity,

Alum writes about the reasons he has supported Ag Leadership for 40 years.

By Philip Bowles (16)

competence and vision that have built the finest food production system in the world.

There are a dozen other concrete reasons why I support Ag Leadership. However, my most important reason is abstract. I have a debt to pay. Ag Leadership didn’t just give me skills, friends and experiences at a time in my life when I needed them most; it let me discover parts of myself that had been missing and taught me how to fix other parts that were broken. Money can’t repay that debt; I try to repay it with my life. The money goes so others can have what I was given. ◆

Philip Bowles is a former director and officer of the CALF board of directors. He is the chairman of the family-owned and operated Bowles Farming Company, located near Los Banos in the Central Valley of California. His nephew, Cannon Michael (39), is the president of the company. The farm is currently being managed by the sixth generation of the Bowles and Lawrence families.

Alumni & Fellows News

Nat DiBuduo (6) was honored at the inaugural Whole Vine Festival at Fresno State. The event was dedicated to him for his role as a longtime area grape industry leader and advocate.

John Muller (8) was honored along with his father-in-law, Al Adreveno, by the San Mateo Veterans Commission. The pair were named Veterans of the Year at the eighth annual Veterans Recognition Luncheon for their decades of service.

Peter DeGroot’s (9) operation, John DeGroot and Son Dairy, was honored with the 2023 Agribusiness of the Year award by the Fresno Chamber.

Brenda Davis (22) was reappointed by Gov. Newsom to the California Horse Racing Board, where she has served since 2020.

Glenn Proctor (29) was a speaker at the Wine Industry Financial Symposium in November.

Jeana Hultquist (38) was awarded an Honorary American FFA Degree at the National FFA Convention in November.

Cannon Michael (39) / Bowles Farming Co. was a finalist for the California Leopold Conservation Award.

Derek Azevedo (45) served as a panelist during the Organic Grower Summit for the Unlocking the Value of AI on the Digital Farming Journey session.

Yvonne Sams (45) was a speaker at the Farm-to-Fork Festival in Sacramento in October 2023. She was part of the panel What’s Growin’ On? How our Food Moves from Farm to Fork.

Shannon Douglass (46) was elected president of the California Farm Bureau in December 2023. She is the first female president of the organization.

Blake Vann (46) was appointed chairman of the Almond Alliance in January.

Sara Neagu-Reed (49) was part of a GOPEX 2024 panel on USDA's strengthening organic enforcement rule.

Matt Peyret (50) started a new position as senior vice president – regional commercial banking manager at EverBank.

Charlotte Mitchell (51) was honored by the California chapter of the American Society of Farm Managers and Rural Appraisers with the 2023 Pick & Shovel Award, which recognizes great effort, support and service to the chapter.

Kevin Souza (51) was one of the honorees of Fresno’s “40 Under 40” list.

Marlene Velasquez (51) started a new position as director of human resources at Rumiano Cheese Company, where she was previously the health and safety/ payroll manager.

Seth Fiack (52) was elected to serve a three-year term on the California Rice Commission’s board of directors as a District 3 alternate.

MULTIPLE CLASSES

The California Association of Winegrape Growers elected new officers and directors: Jeff Bitter (32) and John Chandler (44) are vice chairs and Tom Merwin (44) is a new director. Outgoing

directors include Stephen Kautz (27), Mike Testa (42) and Taylor Serres (49).

Paul Squires (37) and Carson Britz (43) were speakers at the 2023 CAPCA Annual Meeting in November. Squires spoke about mitigating drift issues with high value crops and Britz spoke about FARMSMART’s nitrogen management opportunities.

Jonnalee Dunn (39) and Rob Goff (45) were speakers at the Aspire to Grow Conference 2024, hosted by the Cal Poly San Luis Obispo College of Agriculture, Food and Environmental Sciences.

Todd Snider (41) and Lucas Espericueta (45) are Kern County Farm Bureau executive officers.

Gabe Cooper (44), Justin Spellman (45), Beau Howard (46) and Mark Unruh (49) were appointed to several water district boards by the Kings County Board of Supervisors.

Daniel Hartwig (49) is the California Fresh Fruit Association’s (CFFA) new president; he started his tenure with CFFA in December. He succeeds Ian LeMay (48), who has held the position since 2019. LeMay is the new president and CEO of the California Table Grape Commission.

IN MEMORIAM

We will honor Benjamin Goodwin (7), Steve Sagouspe (26) and Burt Bundy (29) in the summer issue.

In Memoriam

The California Agricultural Leadership Foundation and Alumni Council share condolences on the passing of these alumni and friends.

Al Poncia (2) passed away in August. He was a lifelong resident of Fallon. He joined the Army National Guard after high school and then returned home and worked on the family’s dairy farm. He served on the Marin County Farm Bureau’s board of directors and helped lead a movement that led to the preservation of open space and agriculture in Marin County. He held leadership positions for many community and ag organizations, including the Marin County Committee on Small Family Farms, Marin Agricultural Land Trust and the Shoreline Unified School District Board. In 2002, the USDA awarded Poncia the NRCS Excellence in Conservation Award. He and his wife, Cathie, had four children and eight grandchildren. As a member of Class 2, Poncia traveled internationally to Guatemala, Panama, Colombia, Mexico, Greece, Israel, Cyprus, Lebanon, Kuwait, Iran, the Soviet Union and Finland and nationally to New York, Virginia, West Virginia and Washington, D.C.

Charles Edward “Ed” Boutonnet (3) passed away in November. He joined the Army and Army Reserve after high school before attending Hartnell Junior College later earning his bachelor’s degree in crop science at Cal Poly San Luis Obispo and master’s in vegetable crops and soil science from Cornell University. Boutonnet joined his father in the family farming business in 1966 and began growing crops for Ocean Mist Farms in 1968. The Boutonnet family later joined forces with Sea Mist Farms (an Ocean Mist Farms affiliate). Boutonnet proudly served as president and CEO of Ocean Mist Farms for 25 years. He is survived by his wife, Rosa, a son, two daughters, a stepdaughter, the mother of his children, Patricia (Terry) Boutonnet, and many grandchildren and extended

family members. As a member of Class 3, he traveled internationally to Taiwan, Philippines, Thailand, Indonesia, Hong Kong, China, Singapore, Malaysia and Japan and nationally to Virginia, North Carolina, Tennessee and Alabama.

Charles “Chuck” Lohse (9) passed away in October. He grew up near Artois where he excelled in sports and academics. He graduated with a degree in civil engineering from Santa Clara University. He worked in the family business, Lohse Mill, in Glenn County before launching his own document storage and destruction company in Chico. In retirement he and his wife, Jane moved to Bryan, Texas. He rang the bell for the Salvation Army, was a Butte County volunteer firefighter and was a Rotary, Elks and Knights of Columbus member. He served on the boards of the California Seed Association and Pacific Seed Association. He enjoyed traveling, golfing and spending time with friends and family. He is survived by his wife, Jane, three children and four grandchildren. As a member of Class 2, Lohse traveled internationally to Great Britain, Egypt, Kenya, Botswana and South Africa and nationally to Alabama, Georgia and Washington, D.C.

John Gibson (10) passed away in October. He attended Menlo College in Atherton before graduating from Fresno State. He worked in the family business, Gibson’s Irrigation Systems and Delano Rock Ready Mix Company. He served in many leadership roles at the Delano United Methodist Church and the Delano Elementary School Board. He loved choral music and sang in the church choir. He was a licensed pilot and flew his family often, including across the country for vacations. His love for the ocean led him to retirement in Cambria where he joined the Cambria Chorale and enjoyed many hours of singing with friends. He also enjoyed traveling and took cruises on the Hudson River and in Maine. He is survived by his wife, Jane, two children and three grandchildren. As a member of Class 10, Gibson traveled internationally to China, Hong Kong and the Philippines

and nationally to Massachusetts, New York, Connecticut, Pennsylvania and Washington, D.C.

David Hoxsey (21) passed away in November. He grew up on and later managed his family’s SX Ranch in Alturas. He attended Chico State and UC Davis where he laid the foundation for his future endeavors in agriculture. His love for the outdoors was unparalleled. He was an avid hunter, fisherman and sports enthusiast who particularly enjoyed golf, basketball and baseball. His knowledge of the wilderness was vast, and he took great pleasure in teaching younger generations about the beauty and importance of the natural world. He had been living recently in Grant County, Ore., surrounded by the bucolic nature he so enjoyed. He is survived by his mother, Dawne Pelissa Dickenson; his brothers, Andrew and Joshua Hoxsey and their families and many extended family members. As a member of Class 21, Hoxsey traveled internationally to China, Japan, Korea, Hong Kong and nationally to Missouri, Illinois and Washington, D.C.

Kenneth “Ken” van Löben Sels (23) passed away in October. He was raised in Berkeley and Lafayette and earned a degree in ag business from Cal Poly San Luis Obispo. He managed the cultivation of melons and lettuce for Lindeman Farms in Merced County and then worked in the viticulture industry in Sonoma and Napa counties for many years before returning to Merced County. He took an early retirement and then worked part time in production and transportation for Hilltop Ranch in Ballico. He enjoyed skiing, camping and traveling, even spending months in Paris, Nice and Bordeaux, France where he had friends of many years. He spent many holidays and weekends with friends at Lake Tulloch. He is survived by his spouse, Blaine, two sons and seven grandchildren. As a member of Class 23, van Löben Sels traveled internationally to Paraguay, Peru, Chile and Ecuador and nationally to Georgia, South Carolina and Washington, D.C.

Time, Talent, Treasure

IAN LEMAY (48)

President, California Table Grape Commission Vice chair, CALF Alumni Council

By Jodi Litz CALF Development Manager

Donor List

Sept. 1 – Dec. 31, 2023

$100,000 – $250,000

Taylor Fresh Foods Inc.

The Otis Booth Foundation

The Zenith

$25,000 - $50,000

Paul Parreira

Quinn Co.

$10,000 - $24,999

Dean Brown Foundation

“Philosopher Lao Tzu once said, ‘Great acts are made up of small deeds.’ We all have been so fortunate to be afforded the opportunity of Ag Leadership. While each of us would like to move mountains to give back to the program that gave so much to us, there is virtue in giving back in reasonable and consistent ways. I encourage all Ag Leadership alumni to consider signing up for recurring gifts to the foundation. Every bit helps, and with time, can become ‘great acts.’” ◆

MARY-ANN WARMERDAM (17)

Senior vice president - governmental affairs, Rural County Representatives of California Class 17 liaison

“Even though the years have passed rather swiftly, my Ag Leadership experience continues to provide me with guidance and inspiration. The idea of giving back to a state and sector I feel passionate about was deeply embedded through my two years of immersion in the program. Continuing to do so allows me to refresh through the experiences of the current group of fellows and the engagement with alumni. What a gift I keep on receiving! Thank you, CALF.” ◆

JOHN WEILER (22)

Class 22 liaison

“Being involved in the community and industry where I lived and worked had always been important to me. I was on numerous committees helping with and organizing events and projects. The greatest benefit I received from my participation in the California Agricultural Leadership Program was a change in my expectations of myself. After the Ag Leadership experience, I was no longer willing to limit myself to helping or being on the committee. I began to look upon those roles as ‘followership’ or ‘helpership.’ I realized that I could be the chair or the president and effectively provide leadership. The self-confidence that I gained as a result of the Ag Leadership experience thus enabled me to be president and chair of numerous community and industry organizations and boards. Most of these efforts would never have happened without the Ag Leadership experience, and it’s why I continue to give to Ag Leadership year after year. Thanks for allowing me to express my gratitude for the opportunity and the experience.” ◆

Doug and Jan Circle

E. & J. Gallo Winery

Jim and Kristen Finch / The Finch Family Foundation

Fred Lagomarsino / AgSource

Tom Mulholland

George Myers / Ladera Foundation Fund

Peggy Sears Perry

Richard Pidduck

Syngenta Crop Protection AG

$2,500 - $9,999

AgWest Farm Credit

Philip Bowles

Calavo Growers Inc.

Canterbury Consulting

Gary Cusumano

Driscoll’s Inc.

Dwight and Nancy Ferguson

Gail and John Gray

Bob and Pat Gray

Index Fresh

Robert and Jennifer Kolberg

Land IQ LLC

John and Edyth

Ledbetter

Helen McGrath / Flying M Ranch

Jean and Bill Phillimore

Garland Reiter / Reiter Affiliated Companies LLC

Gary and Karen Robinson

Pierre Tada / Granite

Peak Partners

Raymond Tonella

Darcy Vlot / Vlot Calf Ranch

Luke and Margaret Wilson

$1,000 - $2,499

AG RX

Dennis Albiani

Kevin Andrew

Yissel Barajas

Carlo Bocardo

Anthony Bozzano

Richard Burnes

Jim and Ellen Clare

Mitch Coit / Marv Coit Farms L.P.

Correen Davis / R. Gorrill Ranch

Rick and Bonnie (Fernandez) Fenaroli

Seth and Sandy Fiack

Five Crowns Marketing

Robin Flournoy

Matthew Freeman / Camulos Ranch LLC

John and Sharon Garner

John and Betsy Grether

Grether Farming Company Inc.

Kevin Grizzle

Les and Janet Heringer

Kevin and Diane Herman

Higashi Farms Inc.

Holly A. King

Justin Micheli

Mixtec Group

Paul and Yvonne Murai

Stephen F. Murrill

Bart Nelson / Nelson Irrigation Corporation

Louis Pandol

Ty Parkinson

Kelley Parsons

Gerry and Elaine Rominger

Todd Snider / Western Ag Crop Insurance Services LLC

Kevin Steward

William Stokes and Janet Berriman

Brian Talley

Rosemary Talley

Craig Underwood

Bill Van Skike

John Weiler

Mike Young / The Mike and Jennifer Young Family Foundation

Joe Zanger

John and Teresa Zonneveld

Jarett Zonneveld

$500 - $999

Dick Akin / Akin Ranch

Anonymous

Gregg Avilla

Caroline and Fred Berry

Arthur Bliss

Karen Buchinger

William Carriere

Bill Chandler

Robert and Lisa Cherenson

Paul Crout

John Ellis

James Ewart

Joey Fernandes

Joseph Ferrara

Fred and Susan Ferro

Roberta Firoved

Bart Fisher

Michael Fitch

Bob Flores

Rob Goff

Robert Goodwin

John and Carol Gorter

Ted Grether

Ed Grossi / Grossi Farms

Randi Gwilliam

Heartland Financial

Stephen F. Heringer

Linda HildebrandBallentine

Huntington Farms

Dale and Mary Jane Huss

Cathie Joughin

Keathley, Maxwell & Antongiovanni LLP

Kevin Kenagy / The Elmore Company

Butch and Laurie

La Velle

Bob Lilley

Eric Limas

Thomas Lucas

Bill Lyons

Todd Manley

Kathryn and Kent

McKenzie

Jon Munger

Erin O’Donnell

Thomas and Karen Pecht

Patricia Reynolds

Kim Rogina

Rick and Michelle

Schellenberg

Dan Souza / Dan Souza

Family Fund

Ulash Turkhan / Pearl Crop Inc.

Scott and Susan

Van Der Kar

Mary-Ann Warmerdam

Ken and Rebecca Wiseman

Stuart and Pilar Yamamoto

$250 - $499

Juliet Allen Anonymous

David Arakelian

Steven Arnold

Mike Bennett

Stacy Bonnifield

Karen Caplan

Maria de la Paz Carpio

Edwin Coe

Noelle Cremers

H. Clay Daulton / Daulton Ranch

Peter DeGroot

Michael Dimock

Tom and Rose Ellis

Randy Fiorini

Bryan Foley

Layci Gragnani

Jody Graves

Jackson Gualco / The Gualco Group

Melissa Heinrich

Gary Hester

Glenda Humiston

Janis Jones

Michael and Jessica Kelley

Sharan Lanini

Larry Layne

Robert Longatti

Leo McGuire

Mark and Megan McKean

Dina Moore

Sopac Mulholland

James Neeley

Steve and Elaine Olson

Lucy Pandol

Lane and Joyce Parker

Jeff Rasmussen

Todd and Andrea Rehrman

Jane Roberti

Gerald Schwartz

Ann Thrupp

Roger and Deanna

van Klaveren

Paul Violett

UP TO $249

Keith Abercrombie

Janet Berriman

David Bradshaw

Carson Britz

John Callis

Thomas Chandler

Kelli Coffey

Mark Dalrymple

Kevin Dennis / De Pue Warehouse Company

Doug Dickson

John and Antoinette

Draxler

John Draxler / Draxler Land Company

Andrew Genasci

Cathy Haas

Benjamin Henry

Bart Hill

Jim Hogan Jr.

Gayle Holman

Fidela Irigoyen

Betsy and Mike Karle

Ejnar Knudsen

Jazmin Lopez

Dexter McDonald

Anne Megaro

John Mercado

Jeff Merwin

Jim Miller / Villa

Pacifica Ranch

Jason Miller / Miller

Honey Farms Inc.

Jenny Lester Moffitt

John and Eda Muller

Mark Oldenkamp

Ken and Florrie Oneto

Bre Owens

Richard Peterson

Paul Quinn

Mark and Janellen

Quisenberry

Robert and Patricia Rathbone

Fred and Martha

Rehrman

William Scott

Judy Sparacino

Julie Spezia

Robert Steinhauer

Tim Vaux

David Viviani

IN MEMORY OF

RANDY AXELL

J. Link and Sally Leavens

LINDY BACHETTI

Jack Norton

ROB BAKER

Charles Kosmont

ED BOUTONNET

Mike Campbell

RICK COSYNS

Lynne Cosyns

BILL DANIELL

Lynne Cosyns

Lori Frommer

SAMUEL J. DANNA

Douglas Rudd

DAVID D’ARRIGO

John D’Arrigo

PAUL DAVY

Julie Morris

BOB DEVOY

Anonymous

PAUL DIENER

Clay Groefsema

STEVE DODGE

Adam Borchard

Louise Ferguson

PETER FALLINI

J. Link and Sally Leavens

JOHN GIBSON

John and Edyth Ledbetter

The Ledbetter family

Randy and Barbara

Linquist

ADIN HESTER

Paul Newton

DEWAYNE HOLMDAHL

Larry and Katie Lemke

DAVID HOXSEY

Lynne Cosyns

SONNY KALKAT

Julie Morris

Parmjit Dhaliwal

CHUCK LOHSE

Mark Borba

Randy and Barbara

Linquist

FRED LOVGREN

Adam Lovgren

SAMIA MACON

Theresa Becchetti

ROBBIE MAST

Stuart Mast

TOM MCGRATH

Ralph and Jane Maiello

DARRELL NELSON

Randy and Barbara

Linquist

MELVIN ONETO

Lena Oneto

AL PONCIA

Bob and Shirley Dempel

Jerry Diefenderfer

JIM POWELL

Anonymous

LELAND RUIZ

Roger Wood

BOB AND JOYCE SMITH

Jan Smith

KEN VAN LÖBEN SELS

John Callis

Teodoro Martinez

JEAN WALLACE

Ron and Martha Bass

IN HONOR OF

CLASS 36

Nicholas Miller

CLASS 43

Bill Lewis

CLASS 50

Brian Gill

CLASS 51

Deborah Willmann

CARSON BRITZ

Martin Britz

JIM HAYES

Meredith Rehrman Ritchie

FIDELA IRIGOYEN AND JOHN HILL

Roxanna Smith

ANDREW AND BETH

BROOKHART PANDOL

Mary Brookhart

BILL WILLIAMS

Marcia Snidow

IN KIND

Allied Grape Growers

Belmont Nursery

Jason Cole

Creekside Farms

Ejnar Knudsen

RECURRING GIFTS

Blake Vann ($1,000/quarter)

Bob and Anne Atkins ($100/month)

Louise Ferguson ($50/month)

Megan Grima ($50/quarter)

Ian LeMay ($50/month)

Darren Schmall ($20/month)

Ken and Rebecca Wiseman ($500/year)

Murrieta

Santa

Victorville