FOUNDATION MESSAGE
Leadership Trajectory and Progress BY DWIGHT FERGUSON, CALF PRESIDENT AND CEO This issue’s feature about leadership trajectory has me thinking about our path of progression at the California Ag Leadership Foundation (CALF). We expect airline flights or rocket launches to proceed along clearly planned paths, but we know sometimes circumstances prevent that from happening. The same can be true in our lives and businesses which is why, as leaders, we embrace change as a way of life, focus on the positive and make personal development a priority (which is especially helpful when overcoming obstacles). At CALF we are busy making trajectory plans for priorities, including program curriculum, alumni involvement, fellow recruitment, communication practices and management of our assets. We’re evaluating ways to expand our leadership influence and increase our impact on California’s ag industry. We’re as focused as ever on our mission to grow leaders who make a difference, just like the alumni we’re highlighting in the Alumni Perspective and Alumni Council Update articles in this quarter’s magazine. I’m also delighted we are featuring leadership lessons on social capital from CALF Education Team member Dr. Athanasios “Alex” Alexandrou from Fresno State. The term “social capital” refers to a positive benefit derived from human interaction. The benefit can be tangible or intangible and can include new information, idea sharing and discovered opportunities. It can contribute to an organization’s success via enhanced personal networks based on shared values and mutual respect. Dr. Alexandrou’s article could not be more timely as we continue to grapple with COVID-related (hopefully by now easing) restrictions on meeting while advancing our strategic planning.
Our recurring book recommendations page has been widely talked about. I am thrilled to have alumni, as well as CALF board Karen Caplan share some of their favorite reads. I hope you’ll take a look at the suggested books and send us your own recommendations for inclusion in future issues of the magazine. The application process for Class 51 opened in January with phase 1 applications due in late April. Qualified applicants from the first phase will have until May 24 to complete the phase 2 application process. Working with our partner universities, CALF is thoughtfully preparing various options to ensure we continue to effectively implement the program during and following the COVID-19 pandemic. Our team continues to meet on a regular basis to review, evaluate and adjust as needed to ensure the program is delivered in the most effective and meaningful way possible while observing state and local protocols for health and safety. Our existing learning objectives will continue to drive decision making related to the curriculum, its delivery and effectiveness. Although we’ve missed out on opportunities for in-person interaction over the course of the last year, I’m extremely proud of the committees who organized two stellar virtual breakfast events. Even though the format was different, the content, participation and funds raised in support of Ag Leadership and education was incredible. I can’t help think how fortunate we are to be sharing this path, i.e. trajectory, with you as part of our exceptional CALF network. I know many of you look forward to receiving our magazine and I hope you enjoy this issue of Horizons as much as I do.
3 SPRING 2021 HORIZONS MAGAZINE
