Horizons Fall 2020

horizons California Agricultural Leadership Foundation Magazine

FALL 2020

New Leadership in Challenging Times

Gratitude for Outgoing Leaders

We grow leaders who make a difference.

BOARD MESSAGE

Building a Strong Team for Challenging Times

BY MICHAEL YOUNG (35), CALF BOARD OF DIRECTORS

It is a true honor to step into the chair role of THE finest leadership organization in the world.

For those who don’t know me, my name is Mike Young and I was a member of Class 35. I live in Bakersfield, where I am part of my family’s fourth-generation agriculture and real estate business. Ag Leadership has brought so many amazing opportunities to my life and through it I have gained skills that have developed me into a better husband, father, community leader and businessman. I know I would not be where I am today without Ag Leadership.

Because of that, I look forward to helping lead our organization to amazing heights as we continue to “grow leaders who make a difference.”

As all businesses and organizations have had to pivot in this new world of COVID, so has Ag Leadership. The board took action on May 8, 2020 to pause our in-person programs.

This included a hiatus in recruiting Class 51, in-person seminars for Class 50, and any in-person related foundation activities.

Unfortunately, this also included our muchanticipated celebration of 50 years of Ag Leadership. This time of pause has given us an opportunity to reflect and refocus.

We are excited to announce our path forward with the hiring of two amazing executives—Dwight Ferguson as president/ CEO and Abby Taylor-Silva as executive vice president. They are true servant leaders who will complement each other in their representative skills while moving the foundation through these uncertain times.

With their leadership, I am confident we will find ourselves in a place of sustainability while helping develop leaders who will guide what can arguably be called one of the most important industries in the world. We owe a debt of gratitude to the search committee that helped land our new executive team.

David Krause, Jim Maxwell, Loren Booth (27), Correen Davis (45), Bob Gray and Michael Hollister selflessly worked countless hours in the search process to land two top quality executives. We also must recognize the team from Kincannon & Reed, Fred Medero and Crystal Strauss, who led us through the search process and developed a quality list of candidates for us to vet.

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The CALF board is welcoming the addition of three new directors, Correen Davis (45), Yissel Barajas (40) and Paul Parreira (44).

New board members, along with our existing board, round out what is a dynamic leadership group that is reflective of the diverse nature of California agriculture. They, along with our new leadership team, will propel our foundation on a path of new horizons, positive growth and a sustainable future. We are sad to see four directors move off the board, Rick Burnes, Karm Bains, Bob Cherenson and Jim Maxwell. They each brought depth and experience to the board that will be hard to replace.

I want to offer our most sincere gratitude to Barry Bedwell (13), past president, who continued part time through October, and Jeff Elder (35), past chairman of the board, for their leadership of this organization for the last five years. Under them, our endowment has continued to grow, new partners have been cultivated and the program’s stature has risen.

Once COVID restrictions are lifted, we will send them off with a proper celebration.

I am really excited for the future of Ag Leadership. We have a leadership team, staff and board of directors that is as diverse and representative of the great industry we serve. They are all energized to launch this organization into something special.

Lastly, I want all communication to be transparent and free flowing, so if you have any board level concerns, please reach out to me at mike@wegisandyoung.com.

CALF BOARD OF DIRECTORS Chair / Michael Young Vice Chair / Cameron Boswell Secretary - Treasurer / Eugene Peterson Immediate Past Chair / Jeff Elder Past Chair / Loren Booth Yissel Barajas Karen Caplan Correen Davis Michael Hollister Mike Mendes Dennis Nef Paul Parreira Emily Rooney Bill Van Skike CALF STAFF President & CEO / Dwight Ferguson Executive Vice President / Abby Taylor-Silva Director of Education / Shelli Hendricks Financial Manager / Sharon Harney Program Coordinator / Judy Sparacino Enterprise Coordinator / Emily Lazzerini Alumni Coordinator / Deanna van Klaveren WRITER/EDITOR Liza Teixeira Robertson CONTRIBUTING WRITER/EDITOR Meredith Rehrman Ritchie DESIGNER TMDcreative

California Agricultural Leadership Foundation Magazine

FALL 2020 • www.agleaders.org

COVER STORY 6

Foundation Welcomes New Leadership Team

FEATURES 8

Servant Leadership: The Impact of Dr. Robert Flores

10 12

Alumni Council Update

14

Lifelong Learning: The Education Team’s Perspective

Leadership Focus: Building Trust Through Conservation

DEPARTMENTS 2 2 3 4 18 19

Board Message Calendar of Events Foundation Message Foundation News Alumni & Fellows News Donor Recognition

CALENDAR November

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First Fridays Webinar: 5 Behaviors of a Cohesive Team

December

4

First Fridays Webinar: Understanding Archetypes, How Universal Stories Help us to Navigate Life

January

8

First Fridays Webinar

February

5

First Fridays Webinar

For staff email addresses, visit www.agleaders.org/about/foundation_staff

FOUNDATION MESSAGE

Even More Enthusiastic About Ag Leadership’s Future

BY BARRY BEDWELL (13), FORMER CALF PRESIDENT

Just over four years ago, I wrote my first comments for Horizons. At that time, I reflected on the reasons behind my decision to become the eighth chief executive for the California Agricultural Leadership Foundation. One statement I made then resonates with me in the same sense of purpose today: Coming off 13 years of working legislative and regulatory topics at the local, state and federal levels for growers, packers and shippers, and more than 30 years in representation of production agriculture, I am not only convinced of the value of leadership development, I feel that it is imperative to the future of California agriculture. There simply is no other task I could assume at this point in my career that could have more lasting benefit and value.

Now as I turn the reins of leadership of this outstanding program and foundation to the very capable and accomplished Dwight Ferguson, I can say without hesitation that my tenure as president has not only confirmed my previous thoughts, but in fact amplified them.

Never have the challenges been greater to production agriculture in California or the need to produce thoughtful, influential leaders.

The California Ag Leadership Program was born over 50 years ago with many of the very same concerns we see today. James G. Boswell II and Dean Brown, with crystal clarity, recognized the benefits of leadership skills that would be required to properly influence a system that in many cases does not understand, nor value, the importance of agricultural production to everyone in our society.

So, in spite of this unbelievable world of COVID-19 that has pretty much destroyed our best laid plans for 2020 - including the incredible 50th Anniversary Celebration which was designed to reconnect our alumni - I continue to look toward the future with unbridled enthusiasm for Ag Leadership. I have no doubt that all of the individuals involved with the four pillars of our program, namely faculty, curriculum, alumni and fundraising, will rise to the occasion to give our new CEO the support he deserves and needs to continue the upward trajectory of the best agricultural leadership development program in the United States, if not the world.

And much in the same manner I expressed when I began my time here at CALF, I want you to know how grateful and humble I feel that I have had this opportunity. I now sincerely look forward to spending more of that invaluable time with the best person in the world, my wife Kim, and in getting to know better our six grandchildren, who range in age from 15 years to 8 months. A photo of Hattie, the youngest, follows to give you a visual of why I feel so blessed in so many ways.

Thank you all for what you have given me and my family. I look forward to seeing and working with all of you in the future for the benefit of California agriculture!

My experiences in working with the director of education and core faculty in delivering a leadership curriculum that is second-to-none, have not only strengthened my admiration for their commitment and what they do, but it also further convinced me of the unlimited potential of our program “to produce leaders who make a difference.”

And while our current curriculum focuses on the individual becoming a better person by taking a hard look at their own strengths and weaknesses in “learning from the inside out,” there should be no misunderstanding that the vision of our efforts, specifically, is to be “a catalyst for a vibrant agricultural community.” This is about California agriculture and what our alumni can do working together to ensure true sustainability for everyone connected to our great industry.

Hattie Kay Morwell (Class 82)

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FALL 2020 HORIZONS MAGAZINE

FOUNDATION NEWS

50th Anniversary Celebration Postponed

Paul Parreira (44) is a thirdgeneration agriculturalist with more than 40 years of experience in the almond industry.

Although we cannot gather to celebrate Ag Leadership’s 50th anniversary, you can still show your support by purchasing CALF “swag” commemorating the program’s milestone. The foundation will receive a percentage of all sales. Customize hats, shirts, bags and more by adding your class number and the special 50th anniversary edition logo to any item. Visit www.agleaders.store to shop for CALF merchandise.

He is a partner in Parreira Almond Processing Co. LLC, an almond hulling and shelling business which serves more than 24,000 acres of almonds for outside growers, in addition to 1,800 acres of their own trees. He is also a partner in RPAC, LLC, an almond processing and marketing company which supplies quality California almonds to customers in the United States and to more than 75 countries. He manages strategic planning, business development, sustainability and innovation for both Los Banos-based companies. Additionally, he is co-founder of HermetiaPro, a black soldier fly vertical farming company, which converts agriculture waste products into high protein livestock feed.

New Directors Appointed to Foundation’s Board

Parreira serves as vice chair of the CDFA Feed Inspection Advisory Board, vice chair of the Almond Board of California’s biomass working group and chair of the Almond Alliance of California’s co-products committee. He is a longtime member of the Merced County Spring Fair Board and helped found the Merced County Spring Fair Heritage Foundation.

Given the uncertainty surrounding the COVID-19 pandemic, the board of directors voted to postpone the 50th Anniversary Celebration indefinitely.

The staff was successful in cancelling all the existing contracts for the event without cost or penalties. Planning for future events has been paused until the foundation’s new leadership has time to consider viable options.

50th Anniversary Merchandise

Yissel Barajas (40) is the chief human resources officer for Reiter Affiliated Companies (RAC), the world’s largest fresh multi-berry producer.

Prior to her current role, Barajas managed RAC’s philanthropy program, where she launched an initiative designed to prevent obesity and diabetes in the farm worker community. The program was developed in partnership with UC Davis and UC Berkeley, creating a successful model for public-private partnerships for the benefit of public health.

She has served on the boards of the California Coalition for Rural Housing, the Ventura County Homeless and Housing Coalition and the American Red Cross of Ventura County. She currently serves on the Ventura County Farmworker Resource Program committee, the Museum of Ventura County board, the Ventura County Agricultural Museum board and the Western Center for Agricultural Health and Safety’s external advisory board.

Barajas earned a bachelor’s degree in political science and a master’s degree in urban planning from UCLA. She and her husband, Jaime, have two children. They live in Camarillo, where they enjoy hikes, bike trails and participating in community events.

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Correen Davis (45) is the managing partner and chairman of Gorrill Ranch, her family’s diversified fourth-generation farming operation in Butte County.

The farm primarily produces premium California rice, but also grows almonds, pecans and walnuts. Gorrill Ranch, which celebrated its centennial in 2018, has a long history of successful habitat conservation projects and partnerships.

Davis served on Ag Leadership’s Alumni Council as a CALF Education Team liaison prior to joining the foundation’s board of directors. She currently serves on the boards of the California Rice Commission and the California Foundation for Ag in the Classroom and on the Northern California Water Association’s communications committee.

Davis is a graduate of the Clark D. Honors College at the University of Oregon. She and her husband, Bradley, who is head coach of the women’s basketball program at University of the Pacific, live in Stockton with their two daughters.

FOUNDATION NEWS

Outgoing Board Directors

New Faculty Members Join

Recognized for Service

Education Team

Karm Bains

During the board’s Sept.

16 meeting, Karm Bains (40), Rick Burnes (41), Robert “Bob” Cherenson (29) and Jim Maxwell were recognized for their service to Ag Leadership. They Rick Burnes were presented with board resolutions signed by Jeff Elder (35), past board chair.

“Rick, Karm, Bob and Jim served as faithful and knowledgeable members of the foundation’s board Robert “Bob” Cherenson Jim Maxwell of directors,” said Elder.

“We are grateful for their contributions and extend our sincere appreciation for all of their hard work and efforts on behalf of Ag Leadership. Thank you for a job well done!”

The outgoing directors were instrumental in advancing CALF’s mission statement, “We grow leaders who make a difference,” and vision, “To be a catalyst for a vibrant agricultural community.” Bains, Cherenson and Maxwell began their service in May 2014 and Burnes joined the board in May 2016.

In Memory of Grace Flannery Grace Flannery, a longtime friend and contributor to the Ag Leadership Program, passed away suddenly in early October. We join our alumni and fellows, as well as the many people Flannery influenced and inspired in her career and life, in expressing our sadness and condolences to her spouse, Glenda Humiston (25), family and friends.

Grace began her work with the Ag Leadership Program in 2008, meeting with Class 38. She eventually became one of the program’s integrating presenters, meeting with classes several times over the 17-month fellowship—starting with the inaugural seminar and finishing up at the seminar right before commencement.

One of the most impactful of her sessions was “Stages of Personal Power.” Her trademark was putting all the chairs in a circle to get people to see one another.

She challenged fellows to look inside and treat themselves and each other with compassionate honesty. Grace will be greatly missed by those of us at the foundation and the fellows who were fortunate enough to learn from her.

In September, the decision to add two new faculty members to the Education Team was ratified by the foundation’s board of directors. Dr. Amanda Crump and Benjamin Lehan have joined the Education Team as part of a succession plan involving Dr. Louise Ferguson (30) and Dr. Peggy Perry (9).

The Education Team includes four core faculty members from our partner universities, Fresno State, Cal Poly San Luis Obispo, Cal Poly Pomona and UC Davis, plus four other team members. The faculty members are appointed by the deans of their respective campuses and work with the Education Team under the leadership of CALF Director of Education Shelli Hendricks.

The group meets throughout the year to discuss curriculum design and implementation, program evaluation, session scheduling, speaker needs, participant progress, program logistics, the application process and other program-related matters.

Crump is assistant professor of teaching within the international agricultural development undergraduate and graduate programs at UC Davis. Her research focuses on improving educational outcomes for women and other marginalized adults studying and working in agriculture.

Crump has managed more than $40 million in international and domestic agricultural research projects and her mentees now work as gender equity specialists, program managers and evaluators throughout the world. She earned a doctoral degree in education from University of California, Davis, a master’s degree in plant pathology and weed science from Colorado State University, and a bachelor’s in agricultural education from the University of Idaho.

Lehan is a lecturer for Cal Poly Pomona’s plant science department.

He has worked with the United States Department of Agriculture (Forest Health Protection), the California Department of Food and Agriculture and the Riverside County Agricultural Commissioner as an agricultural biologist to prevent the spread of invasive species that threaten the agricultural landscape of California. His expertise and research areas include pest exclusion, detection and prevention, invasive arthropods of California, and the economics of California’s agricultural commodities. He earned a bachelor’s degree in business administration and a master’s degree in agricultural science from Cal Poly Pomona.

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COVER STORY

Foundation Announces New Leadership for Challenging Times

BY LIZA TEIXEIRA ROBERTSON

The California Agricultural Leadership Foundation (CALF) has announced the addition of Dwight Ferguson and Abby Taylor-Silva (45) to the foundation’s team and the appointment of Michael Young (35) as chairman of the foundation’s board of directors. Together, they will lead the organization which operates one of the foremost leadership development experiences in the United States, the California Agricultural Leadership Program (CALP).

“I AM EXCITED TO ANNOUNCE THAT WE ARE CULTIVATING A NEW WAY FORWARD AS WE CONTINUE TO PROVIDE THE PREMIER LEADERSHIP PROGRAM IN THE NATION,” SAID YOUNG. “THE FOUNDATION’S TRANSITION PLAN WILL HELP US CONTINUE TO ‘GROW LEADERS WHO MAKE A DIFFERENCE’ WHILE BUILDING A STRONG TEAM FOR CHALLENGING TIMES.”

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PRESIDENT AND CEO DWIGHT FERGUSON Dwight Ferguson has been selected to serve as president and CEO of the foundation. His predecessor, Barry Bedwell (13), is retiring after more than four years as CALF’s president and over four decades in representing production agriculture in the state.

Ferguson joined CALF in October 2020, following 30-plus years in senior leadership positions at top produce and floral companies - both domestic and international. He was most recently the president and CEO of Naturipe Farms, LLC in Salinas. He has been active with several industry and trade associations, most notably the Produce Marketing Association, where he’ll serve as board chairman for 2020-21.

“Dwight has a track record of growing ag businesses and the teams needed to build them,” said Young. “He is a recognized industry leader who is known for his management, interpersonal and problem-solving skills.”

As the ninth president to serve CALF, Ferguson is responsible for directing all foundation activities and guiding its widely recognized and highly respected leadership program. He earned a bachelor’s degree in communications from Ohio University and a master’s degree in management from Aquinas College. He and his wife, Nancy, have two grown children.

“I could not be happier joining Ag Leadership as president/ CEO,” said Ferguson. “I believe in the mission and vision of the foundation and very much appreciate its history, culture and contributions made to California agriculture. I also recognize the excellent quality of its programs and look forward to working with all stakeholders, especially the board, alumni and staff, to build on CALF’s rich tradition of success.”

COVER STORY

EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT

BOARD CHAIRMAN

ABBY TAYLOR-SILVA Abby Taylor-Silva (45) joined CALF as executive vice president in November 2020. She comes to the foundation after 10 years as vice president of policy and communications for the Grower-Shipper Association of Central California. Her experience also includes five years as executive director of Ag Against Hunger.

MIKE YOUNG The CALF board of directors recently appointed Michael Young to serve as its new chairman. He is principal of Wegis & Young, a diversified farming operation which grows a variety of tree and row crops and manages agricultural property for individual and institutional investors.

“We are extremely pleased to have Abby join our new leadership team,” said Young. “She is a true servant leader who will help move the foundation forward through these uncertain times.”

“Ag Leadership’s future is bright, and its trajectory is on the right path,” said Young. “We look forward to having COVID restrictions lifted so we can gather as CALF family and properly introduce you all to our new leadership team, while coming together to share what makes California Ag Leadership so special.”

In the newly created role, Taylor-Silva will be applying her industry and alumni experiences to advance the foundation’s mission.

“Abby is well known and respected in California agriculture and will bring many talents to her position as she helps us realize our program goals,” said Ferguson.

Taylor-Silva is a native of Monterey and San Benito counties and serves on the boards of the Salinas Rotary Club and the Community Foundation for Monterey County. She has been recognized as Salinas Jaycees’ Young Farmer of the Year; California Assembly District 30 Woman of the Year; and Monterey, Santa Cruz and San Benito counties’ Ag Woman of the Year. She has also received the Salinas Valley Chamber of Commerce Ag Leadership Award, Star Young Farmers & Ranchers Award and Produce Business 40-Under-40 Award.

“I am delighted to join this team,” said Taylor-Silva. “The foundation made a distinctive and long-lasting impact on my personal and professional development, providing me with tools, perspective and an awareness-of-self that directly impacted my ability to effectively lead in various capacities. I look forward to the opportunity to build upon this extraordinary program, serve the foundation and support the next generation of California agricultural leaders.”

Taylor-Silva earned a bachelor of arts degree in political science with a minor in agricultural and managerial economics from UC Davis. She lives in Salinas with her husband Paul and their daughters Olivia and Noelle.

Young has given much of his time and talent to CALF. His leadership of the Alumni Council played a key role in developing new tools to create committees, encourage volunteerism, organize annual events and recruit new directors. In 2015, he received Ag Leadership’s Profiles in Leadership Award.

He has been involved with the Kern County Farm Bureau, California Farm Bureau Federation, Kern Citizens for Sustainable Government, San Joaquin Valley Young Presidents Organization, Bakersfield Chamber of Commerce, Youth Leadership Bakersfield, California Cotton Growers Association, Kern County Fair Board, the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society, Bakersfield Californian Editorial Board and the Quest Club.

“I want to offer our most sincere gratitude to Barry Bedwell (13) and Jeff Elder (35) for their leadership of this organization for the last five years,” said Young. “Under them, our endowment has continued to grow, new partners have been cultivated and the program’s stature has risen.”

Young studied business and finance at the University of the Pacific.

He lives in Bakersfield with his wife, Jennifer, and their three children, Emma, Halle and Jacob.

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FEATURE STORY

Servant Leadership: The Impact of Dr. Robert Flores

BY FELIPE VALLEJO & APRIL OLVERA DOMINGUEZ, BROCK CENTER FOR AGRICULTURAL COMMUNICATION, CAL POLY

Although Dr. Flores is retiring from Cal Poly, he will continue to serve in his current role as a core faculty member for the Ag Leadership Program.

He began working with the program in the 1980s as a camera person before becoming a presenter in 1995. In 1999, he took a part-time role as director of education for the foundation. In 2002, he became a core faculty member after his predecessor, Dr. Joe Sabol, retired.

“FOR MORE THAN THREE DECADES, DR. BOB FLORES HAS BEEN AN EXCEPTIONAL TEACHER, AS WELL AS A WONDERFUL MENTOR, TO HUNDREDS OF AG LEADERSHIP FELLOWS,” SAID BARRY BEDWELL (13). “HE HAS THOUGHTFULLY TAUGHT MANY VALUABLE LESSONS, MOST TIMES WITH JUST THE RIGHT TOUCH OF HUMOR AND WE WILL ALWAYS BE GRATEFUL THAT HE HAS BEEN, AND CONTINUES TO BE, A VITAL PART OF OUR CORE FACULTY. THANK YOU BOB!”

A leader, a mentor, a friend. Dr. Robert Augustine Flores has made a profound impact during his 37 years at Cal Poly. Most people know him as the man in charge in the Agricultural Education and Communication Department, but he is so much more.

As a Cal Poly alumnus himself, Flores is passionate about the department he serves, the students he leads and the industry leaders he helped shape.

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“Dr. Flores was the first professor at Cal Poly that truly made me feel important,” said April Olvera. “I can always hear him before I see him in the halls, and I know that every time I see him, he’ll say hi to me with the biggest smile on his face. He always makes sure to ask me how I’m doing, or what he can do to help me.”

Since he was in high school, Flores had his heart set on being an agricultural educator. However, it wasn’t until his credential year, and time spent with Dr. Joe Sabol, that he realized he wanted to pursue a career in higher education. Sabol convinced Flores to be a “teacher of teachers.” Flores realized his breadth of impact would be much larger and he would touch more students if he prepared the teachers that would go on to educate students.

Flores is known for calling his birthplace and home “beautiful” Bakersfield. His mother, Marie Ruth, was an educator for primary grades at various Kern County schools for more than 16 years. His father, Augie, an Iwo Jima survivor, joined the United States Marine Corps in September 1941, three months before Pearl Harbor.

Flores immersed himself in the world of agriculture with various jobs in the industry. He worked harvesting onions and peaches, collecting eggs at a laying hen ranch and milking cows at a dairy. These experiences allowed him to appreciate the value of hard work.

While attending Cal Poly during his undergrad, Flores, an animal science major, met agribusiness student Sheryl Athenour in a marketing course. The two later married in December 1979. She admires how passionate he is working with students, always putting their needs first.

“He is the most considerate man I know,” said Sheryl Flores. “He is always thinking about other people and their perspective.”

FEATURE STORY Flores taught for five years at San Benito High School in Hollister, Calif. He joined Cal Poly in 1983, after being invited to apply for a job by Sabol, who was department head at the time. Flores took a leave in 1987 to earn his doctorate degree at Texas A&M University. Upon returning from Texas, he returned to his position as an assistant professor in the Agricultural Education and Communication Department.

In 1990, Flores traveled to Costa Rica with his wife, Sheryl, and their son, Marty.

There he spent two-and-a-half years as a key player in providing faculty support at EARTH (Escuela de Agricultura de la Región Tropical Húmeda) University.

EARTH is a private, nonprofit university aimed at serving students predominantly from Latin America, the Caribbean and Africa. His role at EARTH was to assist the educators to become better college professors and help apply the hands-on experience for students. He was passionate about his time in Costa Rica. He had never been out of the country and was able to support agricultural literacy for students in the tropics.

After returning from Costa Rica in 1993, Dr. Bill Kellogg invited Flores to a meeting with the goal of resurrecting the Latinos in Agriculture (LIA) Club at Cal Poly. The club, which began in 1975, went dormant after trouble finding an advisor. Flores met with Kellogg and six Latinx students and jumpstarted LIA. Since then, the club has grown from six students to more than 60 members in 2020. Flores is passionate about LIA’s 26 Hours of Science and Technology in Agriculture program. The purpose of the annual event is to engage high school students from diverse and low-income backgrounds to learn about and further pursue career opportunities within agriculture.

“IT’S A CHANCE FOR UNDERREPRESENTED HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTS TO SEE THAT THEY HAVE A PLACE IN THE AGRICULTURE INDUSTRY,” SAID FLORES. “THAT’S MY BUSINESS—HELPING THE FUTURE.”

From 2002 to 2009, Flores served as head of the Agricultural Education and Communication Department at Cal Poly before Kellogg took on the role. After Kellogg’s retirement, Flores resumed in 2016.

When preparing students for the future, Flores hopes he has impacted students’ lives positively and hopes he hasn’t left any student out.

“My job is to serve all students,” said Flores. “It’s difficult to reach all students, but I try my best.”

After retiring, Flores looks forward to having more time on his hands, but still aims to be involved within the community. Ask him about his first grandchild, and he smiles. He says he has some home improvement ideas he wants to tackle and trips he is ready to take on his motorcycle. He might be readily found at the Old Mission San Luis Obispo de Tolosa ringing the bells or assisting in various other ways. His laughter, leadership and sincere care for people of all walks of life will continue to make an impact. Robert Augustine Flores is a man to be honored, thanked and admired for decades to come, even after a well-deserved retirement.

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ALUMNI COUNCIL UPDATE

ALUMNI COUNCIL UPDATE

BY JASON COLE (42), ALUMNI COUNCIL CHAIR

Through these challenging times, it has been great that CALF continues to find ways for us to stay connected.

Zoom Gatherings Many of our alumni and fellows have been meeting through virtual gatherings. Staying connected and updating each other on happenings with families, businesses and life in general. Thank you to the class liaisons who are helping our alumni stay connected. (The class liaisons are noted in blue on the class roster page of the CALF website (agleaders.org/ alumni/class-rosters/).

First Fridays and Other Alumni Learning Opportunities It has been great to have so many alumni engage in our First Fridays webinars and to have impactful guest presenters like Dr. Charlie Crabb, Dr. Peggy Perry (9) and Dr. Bob Flores. With Director of Education Shelli Hendricks setting the topics, the alumni have great opportunities to retool, re-engage and reconnect.

The year started with opportunities for learning with Crucial Conversations seminars. In September, we had two offerings of a presentation, “Quantum Culture: An Exploration of Power and Privilege,” which is similar to the program that current classes receive. We hope to offer a variety of opportunities in 2021 and will notify you when more details are available.

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Conduit Communications with Regional Directors and Class Liaisons Thank you to the regional directors who are connected with all of our alumni. The directors have been working on building regional teams, gathering information on what alumni would like to see and do in each region and sharing input from our alumni with the foundation.

We have a full slate of class liaisons who are sharing the good word about the foundation and alumni opportunities with their classmates.

HORIZONS MAGAZINE FALL 2020

Ag Leaders RECOGNIZED for Outstanding Contributions

BY LIZA TEIXEIRA ROBERTSON

They have also been helping to update our directory and are engaging their classes by providing opportunities to connect.

Profiles in Leadership Each year the Alumni Council recognizes the great work that our alumni continue to do in their communities, industries and by supporting others. Read more about the 2020 Profiles in Leadership Award recipients on the next page. It was great to receive so many applications. We look forward to continuing to recognize the great leadership that our alumni demonstrate.

Connecting with ILAC Over the summer, Alumni Coordinator Deanna van Klaveren (32) had an opportunity to engage with the International Leadership Alumni Conference (ILAC) group. The group’s main focus is to host an annual conference where alumni of ag leadership programs from around the world can gather and meet. Due to travel and gathering restrictions, the 2020 and 2021 conferences have been cancelled.

The next conference is scheduled to be held in Maryland in 2022. In the interim, this group will be hosting virtual socials and educational gatherings monthly. We will send out information with the dates via In Touch and through your regional directors and class liaisons. For more information: ilacconference. com.

Craig (5) and Sara Jane Underwood

Holly King (24)

It has been amazing to see how our alumni have stayed connected during these times. We hope that many more of you will take an opportunity to join a First Fridays webinar, jump onto a Zoom social or connect with your classmates.

Every time I have an opportunity to make a connection, I feel like I reconnect and grow.

Looking forward to connecting with you all.

Stay safe and healthy.

Rich Peterson (25)

Sun-Maid Recruitment Event

PROFILES IN LEADERSHIP The Profiles in Leadership Award recognizes Ag Leadership Program alumni for their leadership actions resulting in the betterment of industry, community, business, government, education and/or the environment.

Craig (5) and Sara Jane Underwood Underwood Family Farms is a grower of fresh fruits and vegetables in Ventura County. Craig and Sara Jane Underwood offer a wide variety of farm-related activities and events designed to educate the public about their sustainable farming practices while cultivating a relationship between customers and farmers.

“I am proud of the business we have created that has brought our urban neighbors to the farm to learn and have fun,” said Craig Underwood. “We have talked about how crops grow, the problems we have to overcome and the value of fresh produce. Hundreds of thousands of children and their parents have been able to interact with our farmers and learn to appreciate what we do. Along the way, I hope we have educated and created new customers, starting at an early age.”

Experiences tailored for the entire family include pick-your-own produce, seasonal festivals, two farm markets and several farmers’ markets. During an average year, nearly 60,000 children visit the farm for school tours. The Underwoods relish in the opportunity to reach tens of thousands of visitors annually who learn what it takes for farmers to produce a fresh, safe and reliable food supply.

“Craig and Sara Jane are a true partnership whose operations have grown and evolved over time, reflecting changes in cropping patterns, demand, environmental considerations and population pressures,” wrote Art Bliss (8), Richard Pidduck (21) and Jim Finch (28) in their nomination of the Underwoods.

Although it has been many years since his Ag Leadership experience, Underwood says the perspective he gained from the program helped him deal with many of the challenges he has faced in 45 years of farming.

“Sara Jane and I are honored to be recognized

by CALF. The organization has contributed so much to the California farming industry and influenced me greatly,” said Underwood. “I vividly remember the many varied lessons we learned in traveling and sharing. Many of those stretched me outside my comfort zone. The practice sessions made me more comfortable dealing with the media. It would be hard to enumerate all the interactions that opened my eyes. This also gives me a chance to personally express my appreciation

for the pioneers who launched the Ag Leadership Program and the many who insured its endurance.”

Holly King (24) Holly King was raised on a cattle ranch and farming operation in Northern California, where she grew to understand the challenging financial, operational and environmental decisions farmers make daily.

For 20 years, King worked in agricultural lending, beginning with Farm Credit and ending with leading the development of the Ag Lending Division of Union Bank. She later became the director of agricultural programs for the Great Valley Center.

“Holly combined her love of farming and policy work to create an infrastructure to protect agricultural land through conservation easements,” said King’s nominator, Robin Flournoy (29). “Simultaneously, she was able to bring together commodity groups around the concept of sustainability. She led her family into an almond farming partnership, which brought about her desire to get involved with the Almond Board.”

King first became involved on an Almond Board of California (ABC) committee in 2011. She was elected chair of ABC in April 2018, as the second woman ever to serve in the position.

Just as she was elected, China announced tariffs on American agricultural products, including almonds. Working with industry leaders and the United States Department of Agriculture, King helped secure two rounds of trade assistance to help offset losses due to the tariffs.

King oversaw the launch of the ABC’s Almond Orchard 2025 Goals. These goals serve as a roadmap for continuous improvement in the industry in the areas of water, pest management, air quality and zero waste. In her two years as chair, she championed the goals with industry leaders and partners around the globe.

Of receiving the award, King says she is humbled, honored, elated and fortunate to have had many mentors who helped her on along her leadership journey.

“Leadership is a responsibility—people depend on you,” said King. “It is an opportunity to enhance lives. What could be more gratifying? Leadership is not always easy. The going can get tough, and that is when people learn what you are really made of. Thank you for the recognition—it has been an amazing journey.”

Rich Peterson (25) Peterson served as executive director of the California Prune Board for 25 years. Following retirement, he organized a world congress for the International Prune Association for more than 100 people from seven prune-producing countries. He arranged orchard and processing plant tours, visits to research plots and educational presentations at UC Davis.

Peterson served four years on the PlacerGROWN board and six years on the Contra Costa Food Bank’s board. He later joined the Placer Food Bank’s board where he served a six-year term, including two years as chair. He serves as a member of the St. Vincent de Paul advisory board, where he helps with food drives, fundraisers and home food deliveries.

As a former Navy officer, Peterson has great compassion for fellow veterans and belongs to the Navy League of the United States and the American Legion. He volunteers at local Stand Downs—events organized to provide vital services, such as food, shelter, clothing and health screenings to homeless and at-risk veterans.

“Rich Peterson has worked diligently through his church and many local nonprofit organizations to help the needy in his community,” said Peterson’s nominator, Lori Berger (25). “It is for this reason I highly recommend him to be recognized for his leadership and extensive service to local food banks, senior citizens and veterans.”

He has belonged to the Lutheran Church of the Ascension in Citrus Heights for 18 years, where he served on the church council for 13 years with four years as congregational president. When not serving as president, his main focus has been chairing the social ministry committee, which works with nonprofits that serve the homeless, hungry, poor and aged.

“I’ve always had compassion for people in need, but Class 25’s trip to India, Pakistan and Nepal inspired me to become more proactive,” said Peterson. “Meeting Mother Teresa demonstrated the positive impact a person can have. During my career, I promoted fruits of all types, but Mother Teresa introduced our class to the concept of ‘spiritual’ fruit: ‘The fruit of silence is prayer, the fruit of prayer is faith, the fruit of faith is love, the fruit of love is service, the fruit of service is peace.’ This led me to expand my outreach with a focus on leadership positions in my church and nonprofits. Ag Leadership showed me how to apply my skills in improving the lives of the disadvantaged in my community.”

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FALL 2020 HORIZONS MAGAZINE

LEADERSHIP FOCUS

Leadership Focus: Building Trust Through Conservation

BY SCOTT VAN DER KAR (28), PRESIDENT, LAND TRUST FOR SANTA BARBARA COUNTY Extraordinary leadership that results in success is often credited to the efforts of a single person. I think it is far more common that the success is the result of many people working together, using their individual talents to achieve a common goal. This unique collaboration describes how my life has been refocused and reenergized through the work of the Land Trust for Santa Barbara County (LTSBC).

Having served on various community groups, in addition to ag-related organizations, I gained an appreciation for cooperative problem solving. However, in my professional life, as the manager for my family’s farming business, I had become extremely frustrated by the interruption and distraction of a regulatory process that seemed to be intent on perpetuating problems rather than solving them. Somewhere in my subconscious was the latent desire to achieve success that had a greater impact than just personal business gain.

Now, in hindsight, I realize that I was very particular in my search for an outlet for my volunteerism. It is unlikely for an organization to be all things for all people, but, to me, the work of a land trust comes very close.

The phrase “we only work with willing landowners” attracted my attention. The frustration of dealing with agencies and a bureaucracy of endless time and dollar requirements had made me cynical and suspicious. This phrase was worthy of further investigation. Approach with caution, I told myself when asked to serve on the advisory committee. Did they really want my input and opinion or was it only a ploy to claim agricultural representation?

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In a moment of weakness, I agreed to consider the offer and get to know the organization. To my surprise, as time passed and I learned more, I got to know the purpose and people better, and a certain comfort began to develop. On top of that, these were extremely knowledgeable and qualified professionals. Fulfilling my Ag Leadership commitment of being “out of my comfort zone,” I

HORIZONS MAGAZINE FALL 2020

volunteered to serve on the finance committee. I immediately began building my knowledge and becoming part of the collaborative leadership team.

Relationships and trust take time to build and it seems especially true in the land conservation business. It also takes time and effort to build those same relationships within the organization. I had begun the process and was anxious to see where this would take me.

There is always a risk when working with people who are outside of one’s normal circle of friends and colleagues. The reward is that you’ll always learn something from them and, just as important, they’ll learn from you. It quickly brings you around to the premise of the Ag Leadership Program—we’ll be better at all that we do if we have a broader understanding of how others see us. Education is a two-way street and opportunities for outreach are boundless when urban folks, and especially children, get the chance to experience the outdoors.

Part of our land trust’s mission is to educate our community about our work and why it is important.

The topics have moved quickly of late from the simple explanations of basic conservation techniques, to climate change, carbon conversions, water management and more. New ideas, untapped markets, innovation and imagination can bring vitality and motivation that would not happen without the insight brought by young and old creative minds not hindered by the status quo. We continue to discover that well-managed land, whether forest or field, is better, more productive and the natural habitats and associated wildlife can be a benefit to commercial ag. In most cases, we share the principle of good stewardship, it’s just whether or not it is done in a spirit of cooperation. Some of the most empowering people in the conservation business are those who look forward to the most challenging projects—those that require building new relationships, while drawing on the help of established ones, and meeting challenges with innovation and imagination. A land trust with these people, both as board members, advisors and staff, will meet the landowner on an

equal footing. Combining talents to find solutions to difficult problems and situations is what makes it all worthwhile.

Somewhere in that wide pendulum swing between extreme environmentalists and extreme property rights advocates is a middle ground for land trusts to do their work. And ground it is, that basic, simple resource that we berate when it’s too wet, or too dry or too scarce. But with responsible stewardship, it becomes the most important thing we have. The opportunities are many when considering good land management. That age-old adage that farmers and ranchers are the best environmentalists and conservationists is true. If it weren’t, there would be little left to protect. But how to make it better, more lasting, better understood? Building relationships to do this may take years, even generations.

The leadership model of putting the big things first, and the little things will find their places is a good reminder of how priorities can be set for planning our lives, careers and “free” time. It should be no surprise that these will all change, taking on new roles and importance as our lives unfold. For me, it was important to “make” the time, which means taking it from something else.

The wide-open spaces, a fresh breeze and the smell of tilled soil are things that we in agriculture may take for granted. In these extraordinary times of unrest, wildfires and COVID-19, the escape to, or perhaps the refuge of, the land can bring a solace to people’s lives.

Communities are discovering, more now than ever, that parks, trails or a drive through the country all give an escape from the compact, fastpaced lifestyle that has been so consuming. Orchards, rangelands and fields are all telling a new story to our urban neighbors. We have a new appreciation for stocked grocery shelves, neighborhood gardens and farmers’ markets. Preservation and conservation of resources are the drivers behind land trusts and the communities that support them, but it is the personal experiences that make it special and lasting.

For Santa Barbara County, our land trust is meeting our community’s needs in multiple ways, conserving nearly 30,000 acres. We’ve adopted a strategic plan and a countywide conservation blueprint for cataloging natural resources, while recognizing that more acres need protection.

Our Arroyo Hondo preserve is owned by the LTSBC and has a place in Santa Barbara history dating back to the Spanish Land Grant days. It provides hiking trails, native plant restoration, a managed grazing/weed control program and educational programs for all ages.

Our coastal bluffs and Franklin Trail provide passive recreation and natural habitat for local residents to enjoy, along with access to the National Forest backcountry, all within close proximity to local residents. The Sedgewick Preserve and coastal Salt Marsh are examples of our cooperative preservation work with the University of California at Santa Barbara.

LEADERSHIP FOCUS protection of the California tiger salamander, an endangered species that thwarted the farming, ranching and responsible development of privately owned land, while giving reimbursement and mitigation opportunities to the property owners.

Relationship building has taken on a slightly different approach as cooperative efforts have joined the expertise of the LTSBC and the California Rangeland Trust. Recognizing the expertise of both organizations is essential. This has allowed conservation work to be taken on by the trust that is most appropriate to the need.

Of particular importance to private property conservation is estate planning and family farm preservation. It may be that time in life when the question is asked, “What legacy and lasting benefit could be created?” A conservation easement can make the difference of passing the land to the next generation or putting it up for sale.

Ag Leadership’s lifelong learning creed is a wonderful approach to land conservation and preservation. Hand-in-hand with learning is teaching, and this always leads to better understanding. Sharing knowledge of the land, the exchange of ideas, the building of relationships and trust are all part of the process that utilizes and challenges our Ag Leadership experience.

Each land trust is unique, usually created to meet a singular challenge, then taking on a broader view and understanding as it matures. It is very much like our own journey as we adapt to growth and change.

The important things in life, careers and family are rarely simple and easy. Time, patience and perseverance are crucially important. Much can depend on the experience and expertise of the land trust staff.

Typically, the farmer or rancher knows his/her business and his/her land inside and out, but the opportunities for conservation are many and often complex. Local jurisdictions, state and federal agencies, in combination with neighbors and the public at large, can significantly influence the success of conservation easements. In one sense, they can be described as the ultimate property right—the ability of a landowner to protect property in perpetuity from change of use or development that would alter the land and be contrary to the owner’s wishes.

Truly one of the most satisfying accomplishments for me has been building relationships. It is no surprise that this usually comes back to taking the time to get to know the other person. Building trust, being honest and approaching each deal with the intention that you’ll be working with these people on future projects, are ways to achieve success. Finding common ground and common goals is incredibly rewarding.

Creative, collaborative efforts made with the U.S. Air Force and public and private agencies were able to create a farmland and riparian conservation easement that prohibits urban development within the Vandenberg Air Force Base buffer zone.

My work with the Land Trust for Santa Barbara County has been an opportunity for me to grow professionally and draw on my Ag Leadership skills. In addition to being personally rewarding, it has given me a chance to give back to my community.

With the cooperation of landowners, federal, state and local agencies and the housing development industry, a conservation land bank and private property easements have been created to allow for the

Scott Van Der Kar (28) is president of The Land Trust for Santa Barbara County’s board of directors. The mission of the organization is to conserve natural resources, agricultural land and open spaces for the benefit of present and future generations.

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FALL 2020 HORIZONS MAGAZINE

FEATURE STORY

Education Team Perspective:

The Importance of Lifelong Learning

BY SHELLI HENDRICKS, CALF DIRECTOR OF EDUCATION

Childlike curiosity about life keeps us young and alive! Every day offers new opportunities, new information and new discoveries to which we may be exposed. From a professional development perspective, having a mindset that is open, curious and receptive will not only keep us relevant, informed and competitive, but research also shows the long-term mental health and wellness benefits of lifelong learning, including improved creativity, reduced depression, a more positive outlook on life, and generally improved likelihood of aging successfully. Further, studies link lifelong learning to prevention of Alzheimer’s, dementia and loss of cognitive function (Snowdon, 1996, 2001, 2001; Marx, 2005; Simone & Scuilli, 2006).

In “Aging Well,” the author writes about his findings from the Harvard Adult Development Study: “retirees should continue lifelong learning. The challenge in retirement is to combine the fruits of maturity with the recovery of childlike wonder” (Vaillant, 2003). Further, researchers found that “In order to have a full old age and an enjoyable retirement, you must keep learning. Gusto for education in late life is highly correlated with psychological health.

The capacity to take a fresh look at things makes a young person out of an old person” (Vaillant, 2003).

Use it or lose it! According to Simone & Scuilli (2006), “Alzheimer’s disease, which is primarily a disorder of cognition, is a leading concern of older adults. Therefore, there is a great interest in finding ways to maintain or improve cognition in later life.” Their study goes on to explore the physical changes that take place in the brain.

When learning occurs, the brain actually grows and becomes more active. In the nun study, the

14 HORIZONS MAGAZINE FALL 2020

researcher later reported that nuns who did not participate in learning and other stimulus activities had post mortem brains that were physically smaller, weighed less and had greater occurrence of dementia, Alzheimer’s disease, vascular dementia and strokes (Snowdon, 2003).

A study by Harvard Business Review (2016), showed that “executives estimated that their companies lost an average of more than $10 million per year because teams were avoiding conflict, lacked the curiosity to learn from others or fell victim to analysis paralysis” (cited by Bates, S., 2018).

Stay curious! There are countless ways to continue learning, some of which are traditional formal methods, like taking classes or listening to a lecture. In today’s fast-paced online world, online courses, TEDx Talks and podcasts are filling in the blanks. When working with executive coaching clients, I will have them create a personalized learning plan, appealing to their interests, motivations and aspirations. The intention is that they will continue adding to the list throughout their lifetime. Many leaders stay active by reading trade journals, relevant news feeds, balanced news sources, listening to podcasts or taking courses. Better yet, create your own podcast, program or publication. In his book, “The Mature Mind,” Cohen (2005) offers these options for “challenging your mind and improving health in retirement:” • Play games and do puzzles • Plan a dinner and book or video discussion group • Travel to someplace new–local or distant • Enroll in a course about an unfamiliar subject • Explore the hobby or crafts section at a bookstore for new ideas • Volunteer • Consider new part-time work • Correspond with family and friends

• Develop a dream journal • Write or record your memoirs, autobiography or family history Embrace curiosity! Becoming a leader is not about being perceived as “the smartest guy or gal in the room.” In fact, leaders who are perceived as curious or having a willingness to explore and learn, are frequently evaluated as demonstrating greater executive presence and influence. Keep your brain active and alive. Participate in our First Fridays events, mentor someone, find a mentor, reconnect with your classmates, call your Alumni Council regional director or form your own learning circle. Let’s create something together! The possibilities are endless.

I am currently working on achieving my lifelong learning goals—I am in the dissertation phase of completing my Ph.D., so every day I am immersed in learning. My challenge is that I want to learn everything, but the reality is I need to focus on learning this bit today and then the next idea tomorrow. To keep myself on track and moving forward, I now have a whiteboard in my office to list post-doctoral endeavors. So when a new idea looks shiny and interesting, I am disciplining myself to capture the idea by writing it down. When I finish the dissertation, I will then have freedom to explore the next idea. One topic of particular interest to me is the science of awe, which is “the emotion that arises when the individual encounters something vast or complex that cannot be readily made sense of with current knowledge,” which leads to wonder, curiosity and search for knowledge (Keltner & Piff, 2020). Perhaps you’ll see more on this in the future, who knows, maybe in a podcast series!

FEATURE STORY

Dr. Louise Ferguson (30) UC Davis

Dr. Peggy Perry (9) Cal Poly Pomona

Dr. Robert Flores Cal Poly San Luis Obispo

Sal Parra Jr. (46) Burford Ranch

Members of Ag Leadership’s Education Team discuss the importance of engaging in lifelong learning and suggest ways that alumni can achieve learning goals.

Why should leaders find ways to continue lifelong learning?

Dr. Ferguson: Only those who pursue lifelong learning will be able to adapt to the constant change that is life.

Dr. Flores: We live in changing times. Maintaining currency in how to address current issues requires continued practice and preparation.

Dr. Perry: John Gardner, founder of Common Cause, wrote a book called “Self-Renewal: The Individual and the Innovative Society” several decades ago but I’ve remembered his words ever since. He describes the natural human tendency over our lifetime to “…progressively narrow the scope and variety of our lives. We develop set ways of doing things.” Sometimes life events jolt us into a new way of looking at things—in some cases, the COVID-19 pandemic has been such a disruption. We may not go back to doing things exactly the same way. But the leader who intentionally seeks out opportunities for learning new things will benefit from new ideas, challenges to long-held beliefs, development of new skills and motivation from new interpersonal relationships.

Sal Parra: Lifelong learning feeds the soul. Learning new things is stimulating to the heart and the mind. Our world is ever-changing, with multiple layers of diversity. Diversity in humans, diversity in technology and diversity in nature. As leaders, we must have lifelong learning to know and understand how to manage and lead in our global society.

Lifelong learning involves questioning one’s own state of mind and learning from our past. Lifelong learning keeps the mind fresh and our souls open. Lifelong learning helps leaders keep an open perspective. As our politics become increasingly polarized and our societal problems increasingly complex, it is important to keep an open mind so that we can understand where people come from. This will help in bridging the gap to continue to accomplish goals.

What are the dangers of not seeking out lifelong learning opportunities?

Dr. Flores: A failure to take advantage of opportunities and resources for lifelong learning is a recipe for reverting to behaviors that do not result in desired outcomes.

Dr. Perry: By not seeking out renewal, leaders have a tendency to stick to the same ideas, activities, people and outlooks. This can lead to dissatisfaction, boredom, hopelessness and can close down a person’s enthusiasm and willingness to take risks. And an organization with such a leader may suffer the same fate.

Sal Parra: Having a stagnant state of mind is like dying a slow death. To continue to learn is to live.

If one does not continue to learn as they move ahead in their careers and in life, they will struggle and they will fail. Challenges in life will come as one gets older with illnesses, family deaths and stubborn relatives. The same goes for our careers. As responsibilities and pay grows, so do our problems.

Dr. Ferguson: Living is listening and learning, if you are not doing either you are not really living a life worth living.

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FEATURE STORY

What are some ways leaders can engage in lifelong learning?

Dr. Ferguson: The best way to learn is to first listen, and then ask questions.

Dr. Flores: Staying engaged with a cohort of learners that you trust will prove fruitful—Ag Leadership’s alumni council provides a mechanism for staying engaged.

Dr. Perry: My go-to is reading. There are countless books on any subject from which one can learn and grow. Fiction can open up new worlds. Nonfiction can bring us up to speed on issues that are important today. Dr. Allen Christensen, who served as dean of the College of Agriculture at Cal Poly Pomona and also the campus coordinator for Ag Leadership for many years, recommends reading biographies of great leaders to understand how they lived and served.

Hearing speakers from all walks of life can create new perspectives. Now, on Zoom, you can hear from all kinds of people. Public libraries, colleges and universities, community service organizations, university clubs and museums often have speaker series that bring the best in the world to your community or your computer.

Trying new things, even with risk of failure, is a key part of continuing to learn. It can be learning a new skill or sport and even looking for new ways to volunteer and serve others. I had a mentor who told me, when I was thinking of applying for a new position on campus, “Why would you want that job? You already know how to do it. When you decide to explore a new role, pick something that will teach you new things.”

Sal Parra: Leaders can engage in lifelong learning through multiple channels.

Technology is ever evolving and there are multiple channels to consume lifelong learning: podcasts, YouTube, Zoom presentations, audiobooks and so much more. My favorites are in-person seminars, reading a book and one-on-one sessions.

What advice do you have for CALF fellows and alumni who are interested in advancing themselves through lifelong learning?

Dr. Ferguson: Read, travel, get involved and listen.

Dr. Flores: The best way to advance learning goals is to be a part of the decision making. Self-directed learning requires Ag Leadership fellows to identify topics of interest and ideas on how to deliver the information/actions.

Dr. Perry: My approach would be to develop a “lifelong learning plan.” Reflect on areas that you know little about but that interest you or would bring value to your work and your life. Identify the resources that could teach you about this new area. Do you know people who are already engaged with it—what can they suggest to you? Is there a way you can involve others in the exploration—significant others, children, mentees? This will reinforce your own efforts. Create a timeline to explore and then decide what your eventual goal will be.

Curiosity and wonder are the two most important qualities we need to continue to learn and grow. Cultivate these aspects of yourself.

Sal Parra: Get involved with your Ag Leadership regional director! Hopefully, post COVID, there will be opportunities to do in-person learning at a regional level with local alumni. Connect through the First Fridays webinars with CALF Director of Education Shelli Hendricks. The content and connection with alumni is great! Get online and download the Ag Leadership reading list. Make it a goal to read one of these books each month. Apply what you learn to your everyday life.

THE MATURE MIND, COHEN (2005) OFFERS THESE OPTIONS FOR CHALLENGING YOUR MIND AND IMPROVING HEALTH IN RETIREMENT: • Play games and do puzzles • Plan a dinner and book or video discussion group • Travel to someplace new–local or distant • Enroll in a course about an unfamiliar subject • Explore the hobby or crafts section at a bookstore for new ideas • Volunteer • Consider new part-time work • Correspond with family and friends • Develop a dream journal • Write or record your memoirs, autobiography or family history 16 HORIZONS MAGAZINE FALL 2020

FEATURE STORY

What have you done to achieve your lifelong learning goals?

Dr. Ferguson: I read, travel, set personal and work goals and volunteer.

Dr. Flores: I strive to attend workshops, read articles and books recommended to me by colleagues/mentors and remain connected with like-minded people via various avenues of engagement. The core faculty group plays an especially critical role in my continued professional/personal development.

Dr. Perry: I have the very good fortune—and I think I can say this without danger of contradiction—of having gained directly from the California Agricultural Leadership Program for a longer period of time than anyone. I’ve been continually exposed to seminars, grappling with the challenges of keeping the program fresh and contemporary and—my favorite part of all—working closely with so many individuals who teach me so much about myself and about the world. I have been learning ever since I graduated from Class 9!

Sal Parra: I regularly connect with my classmates. They are my unbiased sounding board for difficult problems. I connect as much as I can to First Fridays. After every session, I come away with two or three things that I put into practice and work on myself. I regularly do individual therapy and coaching. It is an amazing way to do reflection and understand myself. It also helps me in setting goals and keeping accountability to meet those goals.

References: • Bates, S. (2018). A new era for EOS: Using the LTPI to develop high performing teams. Retrieved from https://www.batescommunications.com/bates-blog/the-future-ofhr-analytics-0.

• Cohen, G. D. (2005). The mature mind. Basic Books.

• Dacher Keltner & Paul K. Piff (2020) SelfTranscendent Awe as a Moral Grounding of Wisdom, Psychological Inquiry, 31:2, 160-163, DOI: 10.1080/1047840X.2020.1750927 • Marx, J. (2005). Preventing Alzheimer’s: A Lifelong Commitment? Science; Washington Vol. 309, Iss. 5736, (Aug 5, 2005): 864-6.

• Simone, P. M. & Scuilli, M. 2006). Cognitive benefits of participation in lifelong learning institutes. LLI Review, 1,44-51.

• Snowdon DA, Kemper SJ, Mortimer JA, Greiner LH, Wekstein DR, Markesbery WR. (1996). Linguistic Ability in Early Life and Cognitive Function and Alzheimer’s Disease in Late Life: Findings From the Nun Study.

JAMA. 1996;275(7):528–532. doi:10.1001/ jama.1996.03530310034029 • Snowdon, D. A. (2003). Healthy aging and dementia: Findings from the nun study. Annals of Internal Medicine, 139(5), 450-4. Retrieved from https://fgul.idm.oclc.org/docview/2222462 50?accountid=10868 • Vailllant, G. E. (2003). Aging well. Little Brown & Company.

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ALUMNI & FELLOWS NEWS Classes 20-29

Steven Arnold (20) was honored as the San Luis Obispo County Cattlemen’s Association 2020 Cattleman of the Year.

Rich Engel (28) joined the Ag1Source agronomy team as a recruiting consultant in 2020.

Devin Nunes (29) is seeking his 10th term in

the U.S. House of Representatives, representing California’s 22nd District.

Classes 30-39

Cindy Jewell (30) was appointed to the USDA’s Fruit and Vegetable Industry Advisory Committee.

Mat Conant (31) is an incumbent candidate

for Sutter County Board of Supervisors District 5.

Steve McShane (33) is a candidate for the Monterey County Board of Supervisors District 4.

John Amarel (38) is a candidate for Yuba City Unified School District Board Trustee Area 1.

Classes 40-49

Karm Bains (40) is a candidate for Sutter County Board of Supervisors District 4.

Casey Creamer (47) was appointed by

USDA and USTR to the Agricultural Technical Advisory Committee for trade in fruits and vegetables.

Chris Drew (47) has been promoted to chief operations officer of Ocean Mist Farms.

Multiple Classes

Mary Ann Warmerdam (17), Paul Wenger (17), Soapy Mulholland (25), Cherie Watte Angulo (25), Dina Moore (26) and Craig McNamara (28) were appointed to the U.C. President’s Advisory Commission on Agriculture and Natural Resources.

Paul Wenger (17), Randy Fiorini (21), Michael Frantz (36), Julie Rentner (44) and Jake Wenger (49) were featured in a documentary titled “Until the Last Drop.”

For the California Association of Winegrape Growers board of directors: Stephen Kautz (27) and Mike Testa (42) were reelected for a third term and John Chandler (44), Cameron Mauritson (45) and Taylor Serres (49) were elected for a first term.

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The 2020 California Leopold Conservation Award finalists include Burroughs Family Farms, owned and operated by Ward and Rose Marie (30) Burroughs and their children, including Benina Montes (36).

In Memoriam

Adin Hester (3)

May 27, 1939 - October 5, 2020 Adin A. Hester was born on Government Island, Ore. to Adin L. and Rose Hester. He graduated from Canby High School in 1957 and served as president of the National FFA Organization from 1958-1959. After graduating from Oregon State University in 1963, Adin and his family moved to Modesto where he worked for HuntWesson Foods. They later relocated to Stockton and he served as vice president and general manager of CalAgra Industries from 1969-1977.

He was president and CEO of California Citrus Mutual from 1977-1980. He was president and CEO of the Olive Growers Council of California from 1980 until his retirement in 2018. He was a lifelong member of the Masonic Order; a 32nd Degree Scottish Rite Mason; a member of the Fresno Shrine Club and an instrument rated pilot. Donations in Adin’s memory can be made to Visalia Rotary Club, Shriners Hospitals for Children or the California Agricultural Leadership Foundation. A memorial service will be held in the spring of 2021.

John DeRuiter (11)

April 21, 1952 - August 29, 2020 John Henry DeRuiter was born in Hanford, Calif. to Henry and Mata DeRuiter. He was the youngest of four brothers. John attended Hanford Christian School and graduated from Hanford Union High School (HUHS) in 1970. He attended Cal Poly San Luis Obispo, on a full scholarship. He was active in student government, Ag Council, Alpha Zeta and Alpha Gamma Rho. After receiving his bachelor’s degree, he continued his studies and obtained a master’s degree in ag business management.

Upon graduation, John worked at Golden Genes in Riverdale, buying and selling Holstein dairy livestock internationally. In 1980, John entered the world of agricultural finance. Most recently, he served as a senior vice president/ regional manager of the food and ag division for Rabobank Agri-Finance. John had retired from Rabobank on Aug. 15, 2020. He served on the boards of the American Cancer Society and the California State FFA. He was also a longtime member of the Fresno County Farm Bureau and the Fresno Rotary Club. In lieu of flowers, the family requests contributions be made to the following organizations in which John held dear: California FFA Foundation, Alpha Gamma Rho Fraternity Foundation Chi Chapter, the California Ag Leadership Foundation or Special Olympics.

Donald Dewey Nelson (4)

June 8, 1938 - July 5, 2020 Donald Dewey Nelson was born in San Francisco, to Dewey Francis and Leila Crabtree Nelson. An only child, Don’s affinity for horses began at an early age when he would take the bus from his suburban home to a riding stable— toting his saddle along the way. His parents fully supported his growing livestock and agriculture interests and his mother shared and fostered this passion by traveling with him to the family ranch in Oakdale at every opportunity.

While pursuing his bachelor’s degree in animal science at Fresno State, Don rode bulls and bareback horses for the rodeo team and cowboyed in Nevada in the summers. It was also there that he met the love of his life, Suzanne Phister, in a cattle feedlot class where he raised his hand stating he would be her partner for a class project. Married in 1958, the couple moved to Clovis, Calif., where Don began his career teaching animal science at Fresno State while also working as an AQHA and APHA judge. As a lifelong learner, Don obtained his master’s in animal science from UC Davis and his Ph.D. in animal nutrition from The Ohio State University.

Don’s distinguished career included serving as general manager of agricultural operations at the Bixby Ranch Company in Los Angeles, executive vice president of the American International Charolais Association in Houston, vice president of policy coordination for the National Cattlemen’s Association in Denver, assistant director of the ranch management program at Texas Christian University in Fort Worth and extension beef specialist for the Department of Animal Sciences at Washington State University.

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$5,000 Mr. and Mrs. James Hansen

$660 Network for Good (Facebook)

$2,250 Buck Camp / Tim O’Neill Fundraiser, Class 10 Lance Brown John Crossland Mike Phelan Mike Bennett Bob Denney Steve Chrisman Pete Fallini Ron Caird Randy Linquist Bill Daniell Paul Martin

$500 Fidela Irigoyen

In Kind Loren Booth: $5,266.78 TMD Creative: $1,000 Abby Taylor-Silva: $527.28

$300 Charlie and Jackie Crabb $100 Caroline Berry Rich and Dorothy Peterson $200 Bob and Anne Atkins

19 FALL 2020 HORIZONS MAGAZINE

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