horizons California Agricultural Leadership Foundation Magazine
S U M M E R 2014
CALIFORNIA AG WATER
Alumni Provide Strong Leadership
We grow leaders who make a difference.
FOUNDATION MESSAGE
AG’S FUTURE DEPENDS
UPON OUR LEADERSHIP
California Agricultural Leadership Foundation Magazine
SUMMER 2014 • www.agleaders.org
Water – it’s a precious resource in our state. The cover story of this edition highlights several of our alumni leaders who work on water issues every day. By now, each of us has been touched in some way by the drought. This current crisis highlights inherent weaknesses in water availability, water infrastructure, management and sustainability. The California Agricultural Leadership Foundation provides resources to develop and sustain effective leadership for California agriculture. It is my hope that our alumni use their leadership skills to work together as an industry to find collaborative solutions to a very complex issue. Our industry’s future depends upon our leadership and our ability to communicate to a diverse audience with a compelling and succinct message. Your participation is vital. Should CALF create a statewide, non-partisan task force to address the issue? If you are not directly affected this year, you will be at some point. The problem belongs to the agricultural industry throughout the western states. What solution do you see? How can we collectively address this issue? Please contact me with ideas or suggestions. I want to help. Let’s unite and see if we can make a difference.
Best, Loren Booth (27) Chair, CALF Board of Directors
COVER STORY 4
Leadership in California Ag Water
FEATURES 7 8 13
Alumni Spotlight: Larry Fleming (6) Class 44 National Travel Seminar Leadership Focus: Dr. Annie King
DEPARTMENTS 2 2 3 14 17 18
Chair Message Calendar of Events Foundation News Alumni Events Alumni & Fellows News Donor Recognition
Calendar
Cover Photo: Denise Carter (38)
AUGUST CALF BOARD OF DIRECTORS Chair/ Loren Booth Vice Chair/ Jeff Elder Secretary - Treasurer/ Pierre Tada Karm Bains Barbara Boswell Edwin Camp Bob Cherenson John Colbert A.G. Kawamura Ejnar Knudsen Joe MacIlvaine Jim Maxwell Rod Stark Mary-Ann Warmerdam Dr. Lester Young Rob Yraceburu
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ALUMNI EVENTS
HORIZONS MAGAZINE SUMMER 2014
CALF STAFF President and CEO / Bob Gray | bob.gray@agleaders.org Director of Education / Dr. Michael Thomas | mthomas@agleaders.org Program Advisor / Dr. Charlie Crabb | ccrabb@agleaders.org Finance & Human Resources / Teresa Straub | tstraub@agleaders.org Program Coordinator / Judy Sparacino | jsparacino@agleaders.org Enterprise Coordinator / Emily Lazzerini | elazzerini@agleaders.org WRITER/EDITOR Meredith Rehrman Ritchie mritchie@agleaders.org DESIGNER TMDcreative
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California Exchange / Region 5 Final selection committee, Salinas
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Region 9 golf tournament CALF fundraiser with Fresno State Washington, D.C. Educational Fellowship Program / Regions 9 and 10 L4 Seminar with Dr. Daniel Goleman, Fresno State
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Class 44 seminar, San Rafael/San Quentin Class 45 seminar, Fresno State Class 45 inaugural ceremony, Fresno State 2014 CALF Awards presentation, Fresno State
FOUNDATION NEWS
CALF WELCOMES NEW BOARD MEMBERS The California Agricultural Leadership Foundation has named Barbara Boswell, Karm Bains (40), Bob Cherenson (29) and Jim Maxwell to the board of directors. Their tenure commenced at the May 16 board meeting in San Luis Obispo. “We are pleased to welcome four exceptional and accomplished leaders to the board of directors,” said CALF chair Loren Booth (27). “These new board members have a tremendous amount of experience in business, education, community affairs and leadership positions that will be extremely valuable for the foundation, program and our future. We are grateful for their commitment to serve Ag Leadership and look forward to their input and fresh perspectives.”
Barbara Wallace Boswell
Karm Bains Karmdeep S. Bains Farms/Bains Ranches
Robert B. Cherenson Lander Veterinary Clinic
James R. Maxwell Agriland Farming Company, Inc.
Barbara Boswell earned a master’s degree in administration and supervision from California State University, Northridge, and a doctorate in education from the University of Southern California. She has taught extensively from elementary school to college and worked briefly as an administrator in early childhood education. While living in Paso Robles from 1976-86, Boswell worked part-time at Cal Poly San Luis Obispo in the education department with student teachers. She served on the Paso Robles High School board for four years and on several community organizations. In 1986, Boswell moved part-time to Sun Valley, Idaho, and became involved in local organizations. She served on the Community School board for more than eight years and is an emeritus trustee. From 1992-2012, she served on the Claremont McKenna College board and is a life trustee. In 2004, Boswell moved to San Francisco to join the Greenwood Company as a senior fundraising consultant. She married James G. Boswell II in 2005. A native of upstate New York, she currently lives in Idaho and Southern California. YOUTUBE LOGO SPECS
Karm Bains (40) is a fourth generation California farmer who grows peaches, prunes, walnuts and almonds in Sutter and Butte counties. He has been ownerpartner at Coldwell Banker Commercial Valley Brokers since 2010 and owner and operator of Karmdeep S. Bains Farms-Bains Ranches since 2006. He was farm manager at Didar Singh Bains Farms from 1992 to 2006. Bains is involved with numerous agricultural and community organizations. In 2014, he was reappointed to the 13th District Agricultural Association (Yuba-Sutter Fair board), where he has served since 2012. Bains also serves on the Yuba City Planning Commission and the Sutter County Board of Education, as well as on the board of directors of the Walnut Bargaining Association, the California Cling Peach Association, the Prune Bargaining Association and the Rideout Health Foundation. Born and raised in Yuba City, Bains attended Fresno State, where he majored in business. He and his wife, Harpreet, have four children: Barron, Meaghan, Jaya and Devika.
Dr. Bob Cherenson (29) is one of eight partners at Turlock-based Lander Veterinary Clinic, which serves large production-oriented food animal operations, particularly dairy farms. He joined Lander in 1990. Cherenson’s area of focus is evidence-based herd health decision making, especially in the areas of reproduction, calf health and preventative medicine. He also has primary responsibility for the clinic’s 525-cow Jersey dairy farm and for QMS, the clinic’s pharmaceutical and supply business. Previously, Cherenson practiced and dairy farmed in New England. He currently serves on the National Board of Veterinary Medical Examiners. Previously, he served on the American Veterinary Medical Association’s Council on Education. In his community, he presided over Turlock American/American East Little League for several years and coached. Cherenson has also served on various Ag Leadership committees, including several screening and final selection committees and the program advisory committee. He and his wife, Lisa, a registered nurse, have two young adult children. A New Jersey native, Cherenson earned his DVM from Purdue University in 1984.
Jim Maxwell founded and serves as CEO of various California agricultural companies, including Agriland Farming Company, Inc.; Agri Systems, Inc.; Agri Capital, Inc.; Madera Ag Supply, Inc.; and Growers Fig Company, Inc. These companies combine to form a fully integrated, nationally ranked, permanent crop operation specializing in almonds, pistachios, grapes, walnuts, figs, mandarins and kiwifruit. Related operations include an agricultural tree and vine nursery, a custom nut harvesting business, well drilling, Idaho field crop farming, beef cattle operations, wholesaler of ag hardware, safety products and farm supplies, agricultural real estate brokerage, and secured agricultural lending. Maxwell earned an MBA from California State University, Fresno, where he also served as part-time faculty in the Craig School of Business. Prior to founding his own companies, he served as COO of a public agricultural company. He has served on various community organizations and has been a volunteer at Children’s Hospital of Central California for the past five years.
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Check out our new YouTube channel! Having a presence on this popular no gradients no gradients WHITE video sharing website BLACK will be a valuable and effective way to showcase class commencement videos and other videos. For potential candidates, watching a video with fellows’ testimonials and reflections is a powerful way to learn about Ag Leadership. white
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We have posted several videos from various classes, but we want to add and share more. If your class has a commencement video or presentation, please send a DVD copy to the office or contact mritchie@agleaders.org. Please make sure that there is no copyrighted music on the video.
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SUMMER 2014 HORIZONS MAGAZINE
COVER STORY
LEADERSHIP IN
AGRICULTURAL ISSUES AND CHALLENGES ARE CONSTANT, BUT THE WATER CRISIS HAS UNDOUBTEDLY GARNERED THE MOST ATTENTION IN THE PAST YEAR. IT IS AN EMOTIONAL, STRESSFUL, POLITICAL AND DIVISIVE ISSUE. YET IT IS ALSO AN EXAMPLE OF COOPERATION, STRATEGIC THINKING, PROBLEM SOLVING AND OTHER LEADERSHIP SKILLS. IN THIS TIME OF SEVERE DROUGHT, WATER IS DESPERATELY NEEDED AND SO, TOO, IS STRONG LEADERSHIP.
Many Ag Leadership alumni have stepped up as visible and engaged leaders during this water crisis. They sit on water boards and committees, participate on task forces, and meet with regulatory officials and legislators. They also write editorials, talk with the media, speak at rallies and provide testimony. Our alumni are taking the necessary actions to prepare for immediate and long-term solutions, working with diverse groups on solutions, and making their voices heard. They are making a difference. Eighteen alumni currently work for agricultural water agencies, districts and organizations throughout the state and work on water issues daily. Six of those alumni share their insights and experiences in this article. David Guy (26) President, Northern California Water Association Chase Hurley (35) General manager, San Luis Canal Company Danny Merkley (19) Director of water resources, California Farm Bureau Federation Daniel Nelson (14) Executive director, San Luis & Delta-Mendota Water Authority Jason Peltier (16) Chief deputy general manager, Westlands Water District Chris White (43) General manager/district engineer, Central California Irrigation District
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Describe your job. GUY: I help bring diverse interests together –
with support from an inter-disciplinary team of experts – to foster regional sustainability for farms, cities, wildlife refuges, fish and recreation in the Sacramento Valley. I work closely with decision-makers to showcase the special attributes of the Sacramento Valley and to further NCWA’s mission.
HURLEY: I manage a 40,000-acre canal company
that encompasses 45,000 acres and 330 landowners in the heart of the San Joaquin Valley. With an employee base of 36 employees, the company manages over 300 miles of canals and drains that cover a rotation of over 18 crops. Included within my responsibilities are the financial, policy and political activities of a diverse water supply that is supported with the USBR Exchange Contract as its backbone.
MERKLEY: I advocate on behalf of Farm Bureau’s nearly 78,000 members before the state Legislature on policy issues related to water supplies, water development and water quality. My efforts aim to protect and improve the ability of farmers and ranchers to provide safe, reliable and healthful food and farm products through responsible stewardship of California’s natural resources. A clean and reliable water supply statewide is essential to the state’s economy and the maintenance of a local food supply.
WHITE: General manager of a 145,000-acre irrigation district in the central San Joaquin Valley. I’m responsible for creating visionary ideas and strategies that inform our board in setting policy. I’m also responsible for implementing those policies, political outreach, agency interaction, the district’s financial stability, managing 75 plus employees, the district’s routine operations and maintenance, and implementing our modernization, conservation and water resources plans.
How would you define a good leader or good leadership? GUY: The leaders I admire all exude passion, they are good listeners, and they have the capability to synthesize various ideas and expertise into a clear and positive message that helps advance their particular pursuit. HURLEY: Somebody who is willing to listen
and understands that everybody – whether it is an employee, board member or business associate – has a unique personality that needs to be recognized if you want to successfully accomplish a task or negotiate a deal.
MERKLEY: A willingness to address difficult issues, doing what is right regardless of how difficult, working towards the best interests of those you represent without seeking credit.
NELSON: My duties as executive director include NELSON: Qualities of a good leader include: oversight of all facets of the organization, including administration, operation, maintenance and finance.
initiative, clear and open perspective, willingness to take responsibility, confidence, and trustworthiness.
PELTIER: As deputy general manager I work on planning, regulatory, operational, legal, economic and biological issues related to the Delta. I fight for change everyday. Our district serves over 1,200 landowners farming on 500,000 acres on the Westside of the Valley. Twenty years of regulatory drought driven by ESA regulations in the Delta have forced all of us to focus on increasing water supplies and the reliability of the CVP.
PELTIER: A strategic thinker who can anticipate developments ahead. A person who inspires by understanding the needs/motives of others and listens well. A friend you can count on to have clear opinions, who will make decisions and is not afraid to fail. A sense of humor makes all the difference. WHITE: An informed leader with clear personal vision, intent and integrity, who works to
COVER STORY
Photo: Steve Knudsen maintain sound technical knowledge, seeks opportunities to empower others, with the courage to implement deep change. A leader provides the bridge of progress, accomplishment and accountability to the future.
Why is leadership essential in dealing with critical water issues? GUY: Water is an essential and complex resource.
There are many different values with respect to how we should manage and use our precious water resources. Leadership is essential to develop a cogent and credible road map for water supply reliability and sustainability that addresses these different values.
HURLEY: Water is one of our few limited
resources that is absolutely essential in feeding and clothing our nation. Therefore, everybody involved clearly understands its importance. In times of drought or regulatory restrictions people tend to get easily agitated. Good leadership can help keep people moving forward in a proactive manner.
MERKLEY: Water is a scarce and a necessary resource to life, and because of that it can lead to competing interests. It is particularly scarce in California, so it takes tremendous leadership to balance among the many competing needs, such as environmental, urban and agricultural uses, without falling prey to personal attacks. It takes strong leadership skills to advocate effectively for your organization’s views while remaining respectful of others with different and often opposing views, including those within the agricultural community. Water policies affect people personally, but a leader does not take things personally or stoop to personal attacks. NELSON: California water issues are complex
and contentious and there are a wide variety of interests. Developing – and more important, implementing – solutions requires leadership
qualities. Without leadership, fragmentation and contentiousness is an easy default.
PELTIER: In the highly contentious world of water policy and politics, strong leadership is essential in explaining that the “old” values of economic prosperity and community stability require a balanced approach to dealing with both the environment and the economy. Everyone in farming has a duty to lead in explaining and advancing the interests of food production. WHITE: Leadership is essential because even among local water entities, specific water shortages and crises can affect each entity in a profoundly different way. Active leadership is needed in formulating mutually beneficial actions, plans and outreach that advance change toward progress on a local, regional and state level. We’re fortunate to be associated with leaders in the water industry – many of whom are Ag Leadership graduates – who are selfless and determined, with the endurance, stamina and strategy acumen of field generals.
this by showing respect, by listening to others to better understand their needs and motivations, and then looking for common ground. I like people and I like building relationships regardless of differing personal beliefs.
NELSON: Relationship building is very important. Through relationship building you can develop trust, develop an understanding of each other’s priorities or interests and common interests to build upon.
PELTIER: In water policy there really is 80% agreement, 10% misunderstanding and 10% fundamental conflict. Start with improving on the 80%, build common understanding and push in all branches of government on the conflicts. WHITE: The key is to first seek to understand those with different priorities and interests. It’s important to maintain a respectful attitude of finding and confirming common ground where possible as the basis for making progress. Listen and seek to understand first, then formulate ideas and make progress.
How do you find common ground You’ve all been quoted with those who have different extensively in the news. Is media priorities or interests? outreach important? GUY: The single most effective way that I have
found to bridge different perspectives is to get people in a van or a raft and get them out in the country, walking fields and ditches, watching the birds and fish, getting their boots dirty, talking and listening to each other.
GUY: Our urban population has less connection
to farms and our public lands. It is critical that we continually find new and creative ways to tell our rural story in a way that connects to, and resonates with, people in urban areas.
HURLEY: Actually get them out in the field so
HURLEY: Yes, and it is becoming more and more
MERKLEY: First and foremost you must build relationships and then build understanding. I do
MERKLEY: Farmers and ranchers make up less than 2% of the population, so getting our message out to the greater public is extremely important. When you build relationships with
that they understand issues that our farmers are dealing with on a daily basis. Let them get their boots dirty. At the same time, you must be willing to wear their shoes for a day and understand their issues and anxieties. You might not agree, but hopefully you can gain some insight into their thought process.
interactive every day. I not only communicate with local radio and newspaper media, but I also have to know how to “tweet,” structure a short sentence on Instagram, and understand that Facebook is in fact important to all age groups and industries.
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COVER STORY the media, you build respect and credibility and you can then get your message across to the general public much more effectively. Media outreach is absolutely critical!
NELSON: Yes, media outreach is important.
Developing good relationships and trust with the journalists covering water issues is helpful. This assists you in being a relied-upon source for information and perspective. It helps to position yourself as the go-to person for information and it provides opportunities to share your views.
PELTIER: Media and public awareness of the land + water = food equation is one of the few silver linings of the drought. Unfortunately, with a 0% surface allocation and 400 sections barren this year in Westlands, there is a lot of bleeding. The media attention is welcomed and lets us talk about the permanent regulatory drought. WHITE: It’s important to over communicate with our landowners, board members, city councils and county supervisors, in addition to media. This water crisis is not simply a water agency issue. The facts and implications of this crisis must be communicated to all Californians who are impacted so that they may engage appropriately in the solution.
There are infinite challenges with the water crisis…are you optimistic for the future? GUY: California agriculture has been the
mainstay of California for more than 150 years. Despite the many challenges in California, we are blessed with a truly special landscape that is unparalleled in the world. You have to be optimistic when you look at the intersection of our state’s dynamic human resources and our amazing physical setting – the soils, the rivers and the weather.
HURLEY: Yes. You need to maintain optimism in
order to grind out the frustrating days that might be ahead – especially in times of drought. I have faith in the human spirit and truly believe that if people are open minded and willing to listen that we can move forward. California has too much fertile soil and prime weather to let agriculture go to “waste” on our mighty West Coast.
MERKLEY: I am a fourth generation California farmer, so the optimistic gene is in my blood. Yes, I am optimistic because many of those outside of agriculture that I know and work with, such as environmentalists, regulators, legislators and their staff, continue to gain a better appreciation for farmers and ranchers and what it takes to grow local, healthful food and farm products, and for what farmers do as stewards of the land. I do not waste my time on those that over time you learn are disingenuous or unwilling to work with others in good faith. NELSON: I am optimistic. Although painful, the 6 HORIZONS MAGAZINE SUMMER 2014
current drought has been very informing and revealing. It has revealed serious infrastructure and deep-rooted policy problems and has also revealed the huge impact of failure to resolve our water issues. There are a lot of reasons to be concerned for California agriculture’s outlook in the context of water, such as serious shortages, price and regulations. These are all challenges that have been exacerbated and revealed by the current drought. We now know the challenges that we face. We need to address those challenges and develop a vision for California agricultural water for the future.
PELTIER: I try to be, but it has been a tough 30 years. Our farmers have been magnificent in coping with the adversity that comes with placing environmental purposes ahead of human needs. They are my greatest inspiration. I dread the fact that my generation of water managers will leave the next generation with a lesser system than we inherited. That is what drives me. Paul Harvey was right. WHITE: I am burdened with a very optimistic personality. Our environmental, regulatory and public perception challenges are great, however, in 2014 these issues have impacted a very broad base of agricultural interests and urban citizens in California. Are they not asking for their leaders to implement the necessary changes so that this crisis will not occur in the future? Not the crisis that was caused by the lack of precipitation and rainfall, but the part of the crisis that was caused by poor human judgment, regulation, and the lack of willingness to act.
How did Ag Leadership help prepare you for this position? GUY: The program truly broadened my perspective on a very diverse state, as well as the opportunity to meet and get to know and learn from many agricultural leaders. HURLEY: It made me understand that it takes
more that just my youthful background in tilling the land, milking cows and irrigating crops to make our agricultural sector strong. I better understand the critical thought process of those who live in Los Angeles, San Francisco, New York and abroad who are buying our goods.
MERKLEY: I learned that a strong leader is not necessarily in the spotlight, that strong leadership is often hard work behind the scenes without much recognition. I learned greater understanding for those I did not agree with, those with thinking so different than mine that I used to think they were wrong, rather than just different. NELSON: My Ag Leadership experience began 30
years ago. I feel as if that helped initiate a growth path that I’m still on today. In retrospect, it was an important part of my development, both career-wise and as an individual. The program broadened my perspectives and put California
agriculture in a broader context.
PELTIER: By forcing me to think about how to best make important contributions to the farmers and all they make possible in our state. It brought into clear focus that regardless of where you farm or what you bring to the agribusiness system, we all have a tremendous commonality of aspirations, values and challenges. WHITE: My recent Ag Leadership experience helped prepare me just in time to face the challenges presented in this 2014 water crisis. Learning my personality strengths and weaknesses, the mentoring of my class fellows by the core faculty, and the study of true leadership in action has provided the foundation for engagement and for lifelong learning and growth. —Meredith Ritchie
Other alumni* who work for ag water agencies, districts and organizations: *We compiled names from the CALF database. We apologize if any alumni were omitted. Ara Azhderian (42), Water Policy Administrator, San Luis & Delta-Mendota Water Authority David Bradshaw (37), Assistant Water Manager, Imperial Irrigation District Dale Brogan (21), General Manager, Delano-Earlimart Irrigation District Maria de la Paz Carpio-Obeso (38), Environmental Scientist, State Water Resources Control Board Chris Kapheim (26), General Manager, Alta Irrigation District Greg Krzys (44), Water Resources Planner, U.S. Department of Interior Eric Limas (39), Business Manager, Lower Tule River Irrigation District Todd Manley (35), Director of Government Relations, Northern California Water Association Tim O’Halloran (25), General Manager, Yolo County Flood Control Beth Pandol (25), Executive Director, Water Association of Kern County Charles Tyson (32), Environmental Program Manager, California Department of Water Resources Erik Vink (25), Executive Director, Delta Protection Commission
ALUMNI SPOTLIGHT
LEADERSHIP IS DEDICATION TO A PURPOSE Four decades ago, Larry Fleming (6) found himself in a key leadership role for a major water rights controversy in the Imperial Valley. He was an energetic, 28-year-old farmer who had just graduated from the Ag Leadership Program. A couple of colleagues thought he would be an ideal choice to spearhead a new campaign fighting for water rights. The grassroots effort developed into a significant political battle that made its way to the U.S. Supreme Court and Congress. It also became a huge part of Fleming’s life. He had to balance work on the family farm in Brawley, family life, and countless crosscountry trips. It all started with a ruling in the summer of 1977. “An adverse decision from the Ninth U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals in San Francisco stated that the 160-acre limitation written into the Reclamation Act of 1902 should be retroactively enforced to the privatelyheld lands within the boundaries of Imperial Irrigation District (500,000 acres),” said Fleming. That decision reversed a ruling by a federal district court in San Diego some years earlier that acreage limitations should not apply to Imperial Valley lands. Fleming said the Ninth Circuit Court’s decision sent a shock wave through the Imperial Valley and California agriculture. Farmers, ranchers and landowners were furious, so they hired attorneys and formed a committee to fight the ruling. Fleming was selected as chair. Thus began a three-year journey that demonstrated absolute commitment to a cause. “In a short period, we launched a massive PR campaign to promote our case to be exempt from the 160 acres,” said Fleming. “We needed to educate the public and
politicians about why we should be exempt. We did not want to concede our water rights.” The first order of business was appealing the decision back to the Ninth Circuit Court. But 18 months later, their appeal for a re-hearing was denied. During the 18 months, the committee initiated an effort to push a bill through Congress that would exempt Imperial Valley farmland from the 160-acre limitation (a person could only get water for 160 acres if it came from the federal project). “We were very active politically,” said Fleming. “I became a registered lobbyist. I traveled to D.C. dozens of times. We spent a lot of time educating legislators about our situation.” But legislators were not sympathetic to their cause. So the idea arose to get the case heard by the U.S. Supreme Court. “We had one shot left,” said Fleming. “Our attorneys said we had a 2% chance getting our case into the Supreme Court, but we had to try.” After some months, the attorneys had good news: the Supreme Court would hear their case. “It was one of the happiest days of my life,” said Fleming. “After all of the challenges and getting our butt kicked for two years, something broke in our favor.” The committee continued its legislative efforts while preparing the Supreme Court case. They argued the case on March 25, 1980. “That day was one of the most awesome experiences of my life,” said Fleming. “To be in the front row of the Supreme Court and watch nine justices decide your fate was unbelievable. It took less than two hours. Then it took a few months for the decision.”
When the decision was finally announced on June 16, Fleming and his colleagues were on a plane to D.C. When he arrived at the hotel, there was a box of messages waiting for him. “We won, nine to zero,” said Fleming, who still gets emotional talking about it nearly 35 years later. “I can’t even begin to explain how special it was that the decision was unanimous. The news had spread fast. TV stations and newspapers were asking for interviews. We celebrated that night.” The ruling was a boost to their legislative effort. Previously, it had been a struggle to get Congressional support. But a unanimous Supreme Court decision worked in their favor and the tide turned. “They were willing to help us now,” said Fleming. “The opposition had folded. The bill we’d been working on was attached to another bill by Vic Fazio. The subsection wording was simple: the lands within the Imperial Irrigation District would be exempt from the acreage limitations of the Reclamation Act of 1902. President Carter eventually signed it and we were done.” Three years of hard work had paid off. After the campaign ended, Fleming returned to farming full time. Since 1985, he has been co-owner of Spruce Farms LLC (founded 1975) with his father, Jack; brother, Robert; and brother-in-law, Roy Motter. They grow 2,500 acres of sugarbeets, alfalfa, lettuce, onions, hay and wheat. The Flemings have been farming in the Imperial Valley for more than 90 years. The water rights effort was just one of Fleming’s leadership endeavors since graduating from Ag Leadership. He served on the board of District
9 Sugarbeet Growers Association. He was also appointed by presidents Ronald Reagan and George H. W. Bush to the Farm Service Administration (state committee for eight years and chair for five), which kept him involved politically. In his community, Fleming proudly chaired two successful efforts: Measure T, a $10 million bond to fix Brawley Union High School District, and Measure N, a $24 million bond to expand and improve Pioneers Memorial Hospital. He and his wife, Mary Frances, were also active in their kids’ extracurricular activities. Fleming learned many leadership lessons from the water rights effort and other projects. “Leadership is about dedication to a purpose and getting others to dedicate themselves as well,” he said. “Dedication is a powerful word. You have to be able to get through the good times and tough times.” —Meredith Ritchie Photos: Dave Alexander / Sugar Producer
AG LEADERSHIP “Ag Leadership was like doing the weight training and when you get out, you’re ready to fight. The contacts I made were extremely valuable. People I met were influential in helping me and introduced me to others who were helpful. You never really know how it’s going to directly influence you until after you graduate.”
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NATIONAL TRAVEL SEMINAR
Lessons Learned in D.C. AND PHILADELPHIA From the historically significant Philadelphia to the somber and poignant battlefields of Gettysburg to our captivating nation’s capital, this year’s national travel seminar was a deeply enriching look at our nation’s history and past and present leadership in communities and government. Class 44 fellows share some of the life and leadership lessons learned during the trip.
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NATIONAL TRAVEL SEMINAR
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Lesson: Making
a Difference in Communities
Chester, Penn., is a USDA-designated “food desert,” a low-income area with limited access to healthy food. For 12 years, there were no grocery stores in Chester. Then in 2013, the food bank Philabundance opened Fare & Square, the nation’s first nonprofit supermarket. It is dedicated to providing affordable, nutritious and fresh foods to residents of this very poor community. Heather Mulholland:“We learned about food deserts and hunger in Chester. It was an eye-opening experience to learn about the reality of access to fresh produce and nutritious food.” Paul Parreira: “A truly amazing accomplishment bringing fresh produce back to the people of Chester.” Dustin Fuller, Patrick Hooker, Julie Rentner: “Today we observed leadership being cultivated in local communities by truly passionate and visionary efforts. As we reflect on the day, we are reminded that little things can make a huge difference in others’ lives.”
W.B. Saul High School in Philadelphia is one of three agriculture-focused high schools in the nation. It gives students a unique educational experience of high academic expectations as well as a deep-rooted commitment to agriculture. Its mission is to develop in students an understanding of and appreciation for the career and leadership opportunities available to them in agriculture. Megan Foster: “It was such a privilege to visit W.B. Saul High School. It was inspiring to see a robust agricultural program in a school that services such a heavily urban community. Whether or not these students choose agriculture as a career path, the education and hands-on experiences provided at Saul will make them lifelong champions of ag. I wish there were more schools like this!” Heather Mulholland: “We were inspired by aspiring young leaders at W.B. Saul High School, which offers hands-on education for inner city Philly students.” Tom Merwin: “W.B. Saul is an amazing agriculture magnet school. This school has some great concepts that California schools should consider adopting.”
The Philadelphia district attorney’s office is one of the largest in the nation, serving 1.5 million citizens in a city plagued by crime and violence. In the past four years, it has taken steps to realign their internal organization, worked cooperatively with courts and police, and implemented successful crime prevention strategies. Matt Altman, Layci Gragnani, Luke Wilson: “It was remarkable to hear about how these four leaders in law enforcement were able to lead a wholesale transformation in crime prevention and gun violence rates throughout the city. Using a unique strategy of providing social services as well as real consequences to known gang members, they were able to reduce gun violence by 58% year over year. During the Q&A period we had a lively discussion about gun rights and laws and bridged the divide between views on rural gun ownership and urban gun violence.” Dustin Fuller, Patrick Hooker, Julie Rentner: “As we travel in an unfamiliar area, view firsthand community struggles and hardships, we are reminded that great leaders, even when pushed to the limits, prevail because they have a passion and curiosity to make a difference.”
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NATIONAL TRAVEL SEMINAR
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Lesson: Founding
Fathers’ Vision
Fellows stood in the same spot as the Founding Fathers in the symbolic Independence Hall, where the Declaration of Independence, Articles of Confederation and the U.S. Constitution were debated and signed. They learned more about the courage, vision, teamwork, sacrifices and leadership of these American icons who shaped our nation.
A moving day at Gettysburg gave fellows an opportunity to reflect on many important leadership and life lessons (good and bad) that are as relevant today as they were during this brutal 1863 battle: vision, inspiration, communication, decision-making and strategic thinking – as well as tremendous sacrifices.
Patrick Hooker: “This is where the Continental Congress met to debate independence and where our Founding Fathers met to discuss, debate and create the Constitution. We have learned many leadership lessons as we have studied this crucial event in history, such as the ability to get an important group together to discuss important topics and to find common ground when the stakes are high.”
Layci Gragnani: “Today we took a step back in time at the Gettysburg battlefield. Learning about the crucial conversations that took place between the generals has been quite interesting and educational. While standing next to the statue of Gen. Meade looking across the open field at the statue of Gen. Lee, I thought about all of the thousands of lives that were lost. It’s breathtaking to see this area and wonder what would have happened if things had ended differently.”
Matt Altman, Layci Gragnani, Luke Wilson: “Dr. Spero shared with us his definition of leadership – a leadership that was uniquely American and entirely different from the command and control leadership that had been practiced for centuries throughout the British Empire. This leadership was founded through a collective desire, and evolved from the movement for independence, for an authority that is bestowed from below rather than above, for leaders to gain strength from their supporters not their position, for a leadership that was for the people and by the people.”
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>> Lesson: Gettysburg – Leadership and Sacrifices
Eric Heinrich: “This morning we had an incredible walking tour through historical Philadelphia. We have been moved by a deep sense of gratitude and appreciation for what our Founding Fathers did here.”
HORIZONS MAGAZINE SUMMER 2014
Eric Thor, Paul Parreira and Steve Garland: “The class was engaged from first thing in the morning as we studied each day of the battle in its entirety. Each battle and discussion between Gen. Lee, Gen. Meade and their respective subordinates taught us the importance of such conversations and how poor interpretation can affect outcomes of the fights. It was intriguing to see how the Union soldiers felt it was the battle over a single issue while the Confederates thought the war was for so much more. Gettysburg has really left an impression on the class. We have learned that many of the great qualities from leaders of the Civil War and the Founding Fathers were instrumental in shaping this great nation. They are worthy of imitation and learning to embrace them will help us become great leaders in our own right.”
NATIONAL TRAVEL SEMINAR
>> Lesson: Leadership in the Nation’s Capital Washington, D.C. denotes history, diplomacy, power and diversity. Being exposed to the complex inner workings of the nation’s capital and different forms of leadership was intriguing and educational. While there, fellows met with members of Congress, Supreme Court Justice Antonin Scalia, White House and agency officials, and local church leaders. They also visited the South African Embassy and Georgetown University to learn more about their international travel seminar. Julie Rentner: “After speaking with Justice Antonin Scalia this morning, we have new appreciation for the structure of government, balance of powers, and intellect it takes to keep this great republic afloat. It is so interesting to think that while every country has a Bill of Rights, it is only our country that has the structure in place to protect those rights and keep power from accumulating in the hands of a few. I have new perspective on the role of federal authorities and how the courts function. Fantastic learning experience!” Jose Arriaga, Matt Neubert, Justin Perino: “The discussion at the White House was a very intense, yet professional, roundtable covering issues impacting California agriculture. Most of the discussion was centered on the drought, and how it is impacting our farms, ranches, businesses and communities. It was a great opportunity for the fellows to interact with some of the administration’s influential officials and voice our concerns.”
Tom Merwin: “An inspiring day that concluded with a meeting with Congressman Devin Nunes, an Ag Leadership alumnus. It is amazing to see how much we can make an impact locally, nationally and globally. Earlier today, we met with the assistant secretary of state for business and economic development. He told us about the importance of public service and how rewarding it is to serve and represent his country abroad.” Megan Foster:“It was great to spend time with a Congressional representative who is entrenched in the California drought discussion. We also heard from the vice president of farm animal protection for Humane Society of United States, who prompted a lively discussion surrounding Proposition 2 and other legislation. If there is one take away from the day, it’s that agriculture needs to work much harder at educating the public about the importance of farming, ranching and our practices.” Blog: “The class shared Sunday morning worship with the Metropolitan African Methodist Episcopal Church. We all knew we were in for a great cultural experience. Through song and scripture, we were guided through reflections on the struggles of past abolitionists and civil rights leaders Frederick Douglass, Harriet Tubman and Rosa Parks. We thought about hard sacrifices made for just causes.”
—Meredith Ritchie
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NATIONAL TRAVEL SEMINAR
U.S. Supreme Court: A Momentous Visit Photo: Architect of the Capitol “Equal Justice Under Law.” These simple but powerful words – engraved above the majestic west entrance of the Supreme Court building – represent the ultimate responsibility of the Supreme Court of the United States. The court is the highest judicial body in the nation for all cases and controversies arising under the Constitution or the laws of the United States.
or the right to bear arms – all available to us because of the Bill of Rights. Scalia said that any bill of rights would be only a parchment guarantee (a piece of paper) without the proper structure behind it.
During the Washington, D.C. portion of the national travel seminar, fellows visit all three branches of government. The signature visit is to the judicial branch. The foundation and alumni have worked to provide fellows with access to the Supreme Court, and many classes have had the privilege to participate in a once-in-a-lifetime private educational session with a justice. (Class 1 fellows visited with retired Chief Justice Earl Warren during their trip in 1972.)
• The Founding Fathers did not debate the Bill of Rights; they debated and then created the structure to set the foundation for a new government. • The Founding Fathers created a unique structure with three branches of government. They broke the legislative branch in half (created a bicameral legislature) to weaken it, because they were worried about giving too much power to the legislative branch. They wanted it to be very hard to pass “bad” legislation. The system was deliberately difficult to navigate, which meant that the rights of minorities were better protected under this system versus a Parliamentary system. They also created an independent presidency (a chief executive who was not from the legislative party in power and not a product of the Parliamentary majority) and an independent judiciary (not a House of Lords). The system was not designed for efficiency; it was designed to protect the rights of individual citizens from the excesses of one-party power and monarchy. • Scalia is committed to upholding the original constitutional structure. He spoke about the justices’ view of the Constitution, and that he and Clarence Thomas are the two “originalists” on the court. Their view is that the Constitution means what it meant when it was ratified. • The strength of the Supreme Court is that the justices do not need to worry about political gain. • Weight of the job: There is no significant weight if you are true to your convictions. He said he was appointed as an originalist and remains an originalist. There would be internal conflict if not consistent. • His leadership role: “Am I that significant?
“The lessons learned in this session complement our objectives from the Fresno State seminars,” said CALF Director of Education Dr. Michael Thomas. “Through the Q&A sessions with justices, fellows have gained a deeper understanding about the court and its importance as a coequal, independent branch of the federal government.” Fellows learn about why the Supreme Court was created, its special role in government, the tremendous power it holds, and how justices make difficult decisions on cases. They learn about the U.S. Constitution, the Founding Fathers and federal leadership. Further, they get the justices’ perspectives on disagreements, dissenting opinions, and the leadership dynamic of an influential nine-person panel. Classes have met with Justice Antonin Scalia more than any other justice (in large part due to the efforts of former Congressman George Radanovich, Class 21). This year, Scalia opened Class 44’s session with a question: “What is the source of our liberties?” He said this question is most frequently answered with responses regarding rights to freedom of religion, speech, press, assembly, petition
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Scalia shared his thoughts on several other topics:
How many of you have worked with a panel of nine? Did you really feel you had overwhelming power?” REFLECTIONS FROM PREVIOUS YEARS
Danielle Dupree (43): “Justice Breyer explained the complex process prior to the very short trial, including the debate and discussion between the differing opinions in our land’s highest court. The amount of respect for differing opinions was apparent and expressed as valuable to the process. It reminded me that conflicting opinions often bring important details to the issue at hand.” Rachelle Antinetti (42): “Justice Breyer described this leadership lesson (dissenting opinions) about how he and Justice Scalia debate and disagree about many things but remain good friends. Deciding on legal matters, Breyer considers what’s happening around the world, while Scalia may focus more on the constitutional influence and the Founding Fathers’ intentions. While having polar opposite opinions, they are a great example of how to have a respectful friendship.” Erin Field (39): “Our Q&A session with Justice Scalia was fascinating. He offered many profound responses to questions from our class that were incredibly thought provoking about the structure of our nation’s government. It was a tremendous opportunity to be afforded that kind of time with a Supreme Court justice.” Scott Anderson (38): “Interacting with Justice Scalia, one of the most influential Supreme Court justices of our time, made him much more of a real person. It also made our entire judicial system seem more personal and provided a real link to our Founding Fathers and the U.S. Constitution.” —Meredith Ritchie
LEADERSHIP FOCUS
Commentary:
VALUING DIVERSITY Class 40 at Loaves & Fishes By Dr. Annie King
Diversity is valued by the foundation and discussed often throughout the Agricultural Leadership Program. Fellows’ exploration of diversity begins at the inaugural seminar, where they observe and discuss how the people of Mauritius, with various backgrounds and voices, always help each other. At subsequent seminars, fellows continue their observations of diverse members of communities. For example, fellows interact with “guests” of Loaves and Fishes, which provides meals and support for the homeless in Sacramento. After the visit and discussing issues of homelessness with Sister Libby Fernandez (director), fellows understand ways that destitution occurs and create avenues to assist people who endeavor to become productive members of communities again. “I have passed by Loaves and Fishes many times without knowing the plight of men, women and children here. Now I know how to help in a small way to embrace homeless people and include them in my world,” said Luke Wilson (44). After visiting AbilityFirst! in Los Angeles, Randy (40) and Susan Asadoor, family members and other Class 40 fellows expanded their world by designing and building the Giving Garden for students with physical and mental disabilities at Rata High School in Fresno. The garden is a source of inspiration for students, personnel and visitors. Other experiences have prompted many fellows to commit to long-term projects where inner city youths are introduced to agricultural production. In her TED Talk on leadership, Roselinde Torres, senior partner and managing director at Boston
Consulting Group, advised leaders to deal with a diverse network of people. Defining diversity in biological, functional, physical, political, cultural, social or economic terms, she said that a diverse network would provide leaders with people who think differently, and therefore, create different solutions to problems. Amanda Kimball, research specialist at the UC Davis Graduate School of Management and author of a UC Davis study of California women business leaders, said, “There is surprising data from my own research about absence of gender diversity in the leadership of today’s organizations. Companies that have gender balanced leadership tend to perform better by a number of measures.” Fellows are encouraged to explore diversity in their workplaces to find new solutions to problems and, possibly, increase profits. At one seminar, fellows participate in a fun exercise called “What’s in your guacamole?” They create a dish using some unusual, but useful condiments. Avocado and salt are the basics, but by substituting unfamiliar condiments, new flavors are created. This metaphor suggests that in business, the basics are the same; however, hiring unusual, but talented people or soliciting solutions from workers often provides new solutions to challenges. Brian (30) and Johnine Talley developed Talley Vineyard’s Fund for Vineyard and Farm Workers in 2005 to award grants to organizations that help farm workers and their families. While supporting and celebrating their workforce, the Talleys have noticed enhanced worker safety, productivity and loyalty. At Solimar Farms, Inc., Susan Josue (43) noted that over the past eight years, the company has improved relationships between field and office workers by bringing field workers into the office. “Given the chance, people can challenge themselves by being in a new setting or trying different things,” said Susan. “Bringing field employees into our office has been invaluable in that they opened the pathways for our understanding of field operations.”
Ultimately, when discussing diversity, it is exceedingly important to examine our own prejudices. We all prejudge or make generalizations as a mechanism to categorize others and make sense of our surroundings. Various seminar speakers challenge fellows to recognize prejudicial attitudes in themselves and others and gain a deeper understanding of the origins of their perceptions. Through participation in cross cultural activities – and discussions on how culture is formed, how culture shapes perspectives, and the theory of biculturalism – fellows gain greater awareness of the need to respect various cultures when solving complex societal issues. Understanding and respecting cultures are “front and center” when fellows travel to developing countries on the international seminar. Whether visiting South Africa (Class 9) during apartheid, experiencing the lives of floating islanders in Lake Titicaca (Class 32) or visiting Russia and Ukraine (Class 41) to hear about evolving issues that have now captivated worldwide attention, fellows understand the importance of valuing “the other” and appreciating our own heritage. Remembering her international seminar, Elisabeth Silva (41) said, “I care much more by virtue of having made a personal connection with the region. Having met some wonderful people in Russia, I can no longer just dismiss the country as a bad actor. I now have a soft spot for Ukraine. I worry for the university students we met, many of whom were likely involved in the uprising at Maidan.” Indeed, being an Ag Leadership fellow, valuing all people and their cultures, makes one a citizen of the world. Dr. King is one of CALF’s four core faculty members, representing UC Davis.
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ALUMNI EVENTS
Region 5
Washington, D.C.
Region 7
Region 1
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Region 2
Region 2
HORIZONS MAGAZINE SUMMER 2014
Washington, D.C.
Region 1
Region 8
Region 8
Region 1
Region 5
ALUMNI EVENTS
EVENT VOLUNTEER RECOGNITION RECRUITMENT EVENTS
Region 7
Regional recruitment events are valuable for bringing together prospective candidates, alumni, board members and CALF staff. Alumni hosted 11 events – a record number – between February and May. The success of these events helped contribute to a 13-year high in the number of Class 45 applicants. REGION 1 / Montna Farms, Yuba City
Jon Munger (36) Jeff (24) and Cheri Stephens Nicole Van Vleck (26) John Weiler (22) REGION 2 / Imagery Estate Winery, Glen Ellen
Andrea Card (38) Henry Cornelssen (2) Bob Dempel (4) Steve Knudsen (41) Bob Parks (3) Kelley Parsons (37) REGION 4 / Stanislaus Fairgrounds, Turlock
Region 7
John Arellano (35) Robin Flournoy (29) Chase Hurley (35) REGION 5 / Ocean Mist, Castroville
Art Barrientos (24) Ed Boutonnet (3) Jorge Suarez (41) REGION 6 / Sun-Maid, Kingsburg
Hal Collin (14) Gail Gray (22) Denise Junqueiro (42) Vernon Peterson (41) Rick Stark (39) Rod Stark (29) Tim Vaux (31) Phil Waddell (29) REGION 7 / Talley Vineyards, Arroyo Grande
Washington, D.C.
Lisa Bodrogi (39) Danielle Burk (43) Cara Crye (39) Chris Darway (25) Tom Ikeda (26) Brenda Ouwerkerk (28) Tim Sugishita (30)
Dan Sutton (40) Brian Talley (30) Rosemary Talley (19)
COMMON THREADS SAN JOAQUIN VALLEY
REGION 8 / Kern Machinery, Bakersfield
The 18th annual event was held March 28 at Fresno State. More than 300 people attended the luncheon and awards ceremony.
Edwin (15) and Kaye Camp Jensen Devaurs (43) Matt Fisher (41) Rob Geis (35) REGION 10 / Atkins home, Fallbrook
Bob (17) and Anne Atkins REGION 9 / Ventura County Ag Museum, Santa Paula
Yissel Barajas (40) Scott Beylik (40) Susan Josue (43) Scott Klittich (43) Leslie Leavens (34) Helen McGrath (43) REGION 10 / Angulo home, El Centro
Cher (25) and Tom Angulo John (11) and Donna Grizzle REGION 10 / Way home, La Quinta
Ellen (28) and Mike Way
D.C. EXCHANGE SELECTION COMMITTEE Members of the D.C. Exchange selection committee were inside the Beltway on March 10 and 11 interviewing 80 federal agency staff members for the September program. They also hosted an evening reception at USDA on for Class 44, local D.C. Exchange alumni and other guests. Bob Atkins (17) Yissel Barajas (40) Scott Beylik (40) Darlene Din (35) Melissa Duflock (40) Matt Fisher (41) Rob (35) and Kelly Geis Joyce Jong (39) Steve Knudsen (41) David Martella (22) Jorge Suarez (41)
COMMITTEE MEMBERS
Ross Borba, Jr. Carol Chandler Jackie Giacomazzi Shannon Fast Alcidia Freitas Gomes Sadie Hemsath Emily Lazzerini Karen Musson Debbie Raven – chair Kim Rogina (25) Louise Silacci Rod Stark (29) Annie Stuhr Cristel Tufenkjian Marsha Vucovich – co-chair Sarah Woolf (27) Betty Young HONORARY MEMBERS
Cindy Myers (22) Soapy McCarthy Mulholland (25)
COMMON THREADS NORTH The awards ceremony and luncheon was held April 24 at UC Davis. The event was restarted after a three-year hiatus. COMMITTEE MEMBERS
Manpreet Bains (43) Nicole Darracq Bert (37) Terry Bressler (30) Judy Culbertson Sarah DeForest (39) Stephanie Etcheverria (43) Sharlene Garcia Ria de Grassi (21) Annie King (30) Lynn Martindale (31) Elisa Noble (42) Lynnel Pollock (14) Dana Welch
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ALUMNI EVENTS
L to R: Deanna van Klaveren, Nan Keohane, Rachelle Antinetti, Michele Laverty.
L4 SEMINAR: DOES GENDER MATTER IN LEADERSHIP? Nannerl Keohane, a respected scholar of political philosophy and leadership, shed light on the issue of gender and leadership during the Life-Long Leadership Learning seminar in March at Cal Poly San Luis Obispo. According to Keohane, “Leaders define or clarify goals for a group of individuals, and bring together the energies of members of that group to pursue those goals.” Leadership covers a spectrum, from high-profile leaders to low-key leaders who make a difference to a few individuals. Keohane offered historical context about women in leadership. She said throughout the centuries, leadership has been linked with masculinity, but certain situations and occasions have been favorable for women as leaders. Women have been active in politically unsettled times, they often lead women’s issues movements, and they’ve been leaders in families, family businesses, and volunteer endeavors. “This is a more low-key, behind-the-scenes kind of leadership, but it is essential to the health and flourishing of all human communities,” she said. Since 1950, hundreds of women have been in some of the most authoritative positions in the world, but Keohane said there are very few professions in which women are as likely as men to hold the very top jobs. KEOHANE’S THOUGHT-PROVOKING PRESENTATION FOCUSED ON THREE AREAS: 1. Obstacles to women’s leadership Women who are ambitious for top leadership positions still face significant obstacles: • Domestic duties: Women in most societies have primary or sole responsibility for childcare and home making. They are expected to undertake home tasks in addition to any professional occupations. Being a mom today takes more time and energy than it did decades ago. Keohane said more childcare centers, flexible schedules, telecommuting and shared jobs can help tackle work/family conflicts. If a woman is to succeed as a leader, she and her partner must share home responsibilities.
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• Gender stereotypes: These get in the way of women being judged on their own accomplishments. There is a lot of psychological evidence that people associate desirable leadership qualities with men: toughness, decisiveness, and a commanding presence. • Mentoring: Most young women get less career advice and support than young men. There is a lot of evidence that mentoring makes an enormous difference to women. • Popular culture: This is a formidable force in shaping expectations for young people. The ambitions of girls and women are discouraged when they are taught to be deferential to males and not compete with them for power and recognition. Women internalize these stereotypes, which leads them to question their own abilities. “We need the energy, vision and commitment to tackle these obstacles for women and get rid of the gender-related dead ends and cul-de-sacs in the labyrinth of leadership,” said Keohane. 2. Ambitions of young women for leadership Keohane chaired a committee on undergraduate women’s leadership that was charged with determining if “women undergraduates are realizing their academic potential and seeking opportunities for leadership at the same rate and in the same manner as male colleagues.” Results found that women students are not seeking leadership opportunities at the same rate, and or in the same manner, as men. Women preferred to put their efforts where they could have an impact, in places where they could get the work of the organization done, rather than advancing their own resumes or having a big title or visible leadership position. The committee found some statistically significant differences between the ambitions and comfort levels of young men and women at Princeton today, in terms of the types of leadership that appealed to them and the ways they thought about power. Keohane referred to Sheryl Sandberg’s writings: women need to be encouraged to “lean in” versus “lean out.” When this happens, more women step forward for leadership positions. However, leaning in is not enough. “If you lean in hard
against a locked door, all you’ll get is bruises,” said Keohane. “As long as women have responsibilities in the home and the workplace, their ambitions will almost inevitably be conflicted.” 3. Do women lead differently from men? Keohane said she’s agnostic about whether our genes or hormones dictate differences in leadership style. But our situation or socialization (how we were brought up as children and treated as adults) does affect how we lead. She mentioned that some leadership scholars claim that traits of sensitivity, collaboration and nurturing actually make a person a better leader than the traditionally male traits of decisiveness and toughness. But sensitivity, collaboration and nurturing are not the answer in all challenges of leadership. Keohane referred to an essay by Max Weber entitled “Politics as a Vocation.” What matters most for any leader is what Weber identifies as passion (caring about a cause, not just holding power), proportion (the ability to see things in perspective, get some distance), and a sense of responsibility (the conviction that this is your work and it matters that you take it seriously and get it done). She offered a few reasons why it’s important to increase the opportunities for women to exercise leadership. First, providing leadership opportunities is fair to women – half the human race. Second, there is a lot of evidence that diverse leadership teams are stronger than homogeneous ones. And third, including women increases the pool of leadership talent, at a time when we need strong leaders.
—Meredith Ritchie About the speaker: Professor Nan Keohane has taught at Swarthmore College, the University of Pennsylvania, Stanford University, Wellesley College, Duke University and Princeton University. She became the first female president of a women’s college, Wellesley (1981-1993), and a major research university, Duke (1993-2004). Keohane is the author of three books, including “Thinking about Leadership.”
ALUMNI & FELLOWS NEWS CLASSES 1-9 Al Guilin (1) published his third book in fall 2013. “The Short Handle Hoe” offers several short stories about the lives of people who work in the fields. www. alguilinstoryteller.com.
George Soares (4) received
the Mentor’s Award from the California Grape and Tree Fruit League at its 78th annual meeting in March. The award honors an individual who has demonstrated exceptional dedication to the fresh grape, berry and tree fruit communities through their leadership in the industry.
Nat DiBuduo (6) was elected
president of CalASFMRA, the California chapter of the American Society of Farm Managers and Rural Appraisers. DiBuduo has served on the CalASFMRA board for five years.
Kole Upton (8) provided
testimony before the Committee on Natural Resources (U.S. House of Representatives) at an oversight field hearing in Fresno on March 19. The topic of the hearing was “California Water Crisis and Its Impacts: The Need for Immediate and Long-Term Solutions.”
CLASSES 10-19 Ben Drake (12) was reappointed to the California State Board of Food and Agriculture, where he has served since 2010.
Paul Wenger (17) received the 2014 Distinguished Service Award from the Stanislaus County Farm Bureau (SCFB). The award, presented during SCFB’s centennial celebration on May 15, recognized his service to the agricultural community.
Craig McNamara (28) was
named 2014 Agriculturist of the Year by the California State Fair. The award recognizes an individual who has demonstrated leadership and contributed extensively, in a professional capacity, to California agriculture for many years.
Jeff Colombini (28) was elected to the inaugural board of directors for the new Olive Oil Commission of California.
Dan Macon (26) created the Facebook group “FarmerRancher Drought Forum” for farmers, ranchers and others to post information, questions, observations and resources for dealing with the drought.
County Fair, or to the Yolo County Heritage Foundation or California Rangeland Trust.
Megan Foster (44) was one of
1944-2014. Len Francis passed away peacefully from cancer at his home on March 14. Len grew up in the Lucerne Valley. He attended Cal Poly Pomona with a degree in fruit industries and a minor in chemistry. After two years teaching high school, Len worked as a chemist at Sunkist Orange Products. He then earned a master’s degree in chemistry from UC Riverside. In 1968, he began an eight-year career as a farm advisor for Orange, Los Angeles and Riverside counties. He also grew Christmas trees commercially. In 1976, Len and his partner started a grove management company in the Temecula area. Len was an active member of the California Avocado Society (CAS) and served in a variety of positions, including president and research coordinator for the production research committee. In 1998, he received the CAS Award of Honor. Len also served on the CAC Water Task Force and generously contributed time and expertise for grower seminars, locally and internationally. Locally, he was involved with the Temecula Rotary for 30 years, the Temecula Players Group and Temecula Playhouse, and he performed at Lawrence Welk. Len is survived by his wife, Lynn, and his daughter and son. Donations may be made to the American Red Cross.
three young leaders recognized by Valley Vision for having a significant impact on the economic, social and environmental vitality of the seven-county capital region. She was recognized in the environmental category for her work representing more than 1,200 Farm Bureau members in Yuba and Sutter counties.
CLASSES 30-39
Ann Thrupp (32) made a presentation to UC Berkeley alumni in Grass Valley on March 26. Her speech was titled “Why Food Matters: How the Berkeley Food Institute is Going About Making a Difference.” Jake Blehm (32) is the assistant executive director of Ecology Action, where he has worked for the past four years. The nonprofit teaches people worldwide about small-scale non-mechanized agriculture. Blehm has traveled to numerous countries for work projects.
Sally Tripp (33) was one of five
team members of the Fresnobased White House Smart Cities, Smart Communities Initiative who received the 2013 USDA Secretary’s Honor Award for Personal and Professional Excellence. The team was recognized for their outstanding collaborative efforts involving a regional economic strategy in Fresno.
Darlene Din (35) was named the
30th District’s Woman of the Year by Assemblyman Luis Alejo. She was recognized for her professional and private commitment to the community.
Dino Giacomazzi (36) wrote a CLASSES 20-29
to the 13th District Agricultural Association, Yuba Sutter Fair board of directors, where he has served since 2012.
strip-till guide entitled “A Systems Approach to Conservation Tillage of Forage Crops: A California Dairyman’s Perspective.” http:// striptillguide.com/
CLASSES 40-44
Karm Bains (40) was reappointed
MULTIPLE CLASSES Link Leavens (11) and Leslie Leavens (34) were featured in a two-minute video – titled “The Leavens Family” – as part of the Sunkist Family Stories series. http://familystories.sunkist.com/
IN MEMORIAM
Henry “Hank” Stone (1)
1930-2014. Hank Stone passed away on April 24. He was born in Merced, grew up in San Francisco and Salinas, and attended Cal Poly San Luis Obispo. Stone was drafted out of college during the Korean War. He married Suzanne Storm in 1954. His early jobs included ranch manager, sheep business owner and ag lender. He later managed the Woodland Production Credit Association. In the 1970s, Stone was business manager for Anderson Farms in Davis. His position led to the formation of Yolo Land & Cattle Co., which became a partnership with his two sons. In the 2000s, Stone started his own purebred Angus herd. He served on numerous boards in the ag industry and in his community. Stone was also an advisor for the UC Davis and Cal Poly Animal Science Departments. He received several awards, including 2008 California Livestock Man of the Year from the California Chamber of Commerce. He had a lifelong passion for livestock judging and was well known as an auctioneer. Stone is survived by his wife, Suzanne, two sons and their spouses, and four grandchildren. Donations may be made to his memorial fund with the Yolo
H. Leonard Francis (12)
WHAT’S HAPPENING IN YOUR LIFE? PLEASE SEND ANNOUNCEMENTS OR NEWS TO:
mritchie@agleaders.org
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THANK YOU
DONOR SUPPORT
Pledge Payments Received Otis Booth Foundation: $500,000 Boswell Family Foundation: $25,000 John and Sheila Lake: $10,000 $1,000,000 Loren Booth (matching challenge grant pledge) $80,000 Wells Fargo $50,000 Vessey and Company (pledge and payment) $25,000 Reiter Affiliated Companies Western Growers Association $15,000 Wegis & Young Property Management, LLC (Rick Wegis, Greg Wegis, Mike Young)
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February 1 – June 30, 2014
$13,000 Ed and Rosa Boutonnet
$1,500 Robert Cherenson
$10,000 Capital Insurance Group Class 25 (individual gifts and pledges) Mark and Joann Nickerson Olive Hill Greenhouses, Inc. Prime Time
$1,000-$1,499 Allied Grape Growers (Nat DiBuduo) James Beecher Mark Burrell Class 25 bookends (Darway & Zacky) Class 25 Treasury Fund Robert and Kari Hodgen Ken Kaplan Ralph Myers Darren Schmall Tim Sugishita Western United Dairymen Deanna van Klaveren Wil-Ker-Son Ranch Mary-Ann Warmerdam Ken Zimmerman
$8,500 Azzule Systems $7,000 C.H. Robinson Company $5,000 Bank of the West Edwin and Kaye Camp Monsanto Company Union Bank $2,500 Granite Peak Partners, Inc. (Pierre Tada) Meyers Farms Family Trust $2,000 Kershaw Companies
$750 Bob Brown/Calamco $500-$600 California Poultry Federation Fidela Irigoyen Erik Vink Phil and Donna Waddell
$300-$399 Far West Equipment Dealers Association Services, Inc. (Steve Kost) Tim O’Halloran Richard Peterson $250 Cherie Watte Angulo John Gorter Lester and Janet Heringer Clint and Karen Miller Russell Turner $150 Benny and Donna Jefferson Dan Nelson $100 Franklin and Jane Barnes William Gisvold Annie King Charles and Frances Pritchard Up to $100 Rachelle Antinetti Dan Marcum
In Memory of Jim Powell Brockman Farming, Inc.: $500 In-Kind Hayashi & Wayland: $12,329 Darlene Din: $7,800 Melissa Duflock: $1,545.90 TMD Creative: $750 Meredith Rehrman Ritchie: $600 Crop Management Company (Matthew Fisher): $550 Generation Growers, Inc.: $530.50 Bruce Rice: $400 Cherie Watte Angulo: $250 Karen Caplan: $250 Allied Grape Growers: $245.25 Tim Vaux: $104.12 Alumni Fundraising Events World Ag Expo Ag Leadership Alumni Breakfast: $88,000
THANK YOU
SPECIAL THANKS TO OUR MAJOR CONTRIBUTORS July 1, 2011- June 30, 2014
FOUNDERS’ LEADERSHIP CIRCLE $1,000,000 and above
James G. Boswell Foundation Otis Booth Foundation
LEGACY LEADERSHIP CIRCLE $500,000 and above
Boswell Family Foundation
PIONEER LEADERSHIP CIRCLE
Farm Credit: American AgCredit, CoBank, Farm Credit West Foster Farms Harden Foundation Lagomarsino Group George and Kathleen Myers Mark and Joann Nickerson The Norton Foundation Prime Time Syngenta Corporation TMD Creative Wegis and Young / Mike Young, Rick Wegis, Greg Wegis
$250,000 and above
Susan Dulin (in memory of J.G. Boswell II) Justina Borba
CHAIRMAN’S LEADERSHIP CIRCLE $100,000 and above
John and Betsy Grether John and Sheila Lake Reiter Affiliated Companies Taylor Farms California Wells Fargo
ALUMNI LEADERSHIP CIRCLE $50,000 and above
Bank of America Merrill Lynch Driscoll Strawberry Associates, Inc. Growers Express J.F. Maddox Foundation (in memory of J.G. Boswell II) Mission Produce, Inc. Mulholland Citrus Vessey and Company Western Growers Association
PRESIDENT’S LEADERSHIP CIRCLE $25,000 and above
Azzule Systems The Borba Families – Mark and Sharon Borba Ed and Rosa Boutonnet Bowles Farming Company / Philip E. and Jamie N. Bowles Capital Insurance Group C.H. Robinson Worldwide D’Arrigo Bros. Co. of California Darlene Din Denise Godfrey Family / Olive Hill, LLC
THE 1970 LEADERSHIP CIRCLE $10,000 and above
Bank of the West Booth Ranches Rose Marie Burroughs Edwin and Kaye Camp Charles Buchinger Memorial Endowment Fund Class 39 Class 43 Melissa Duflock E. & J. Gallo Winery Jim and Betsy Hansen Hayashi & Wayland International Paper Company The Johannessen Trust Kevin Grizzle Farms, LLC The Klassen Corporation Charlie and Sheila Mathews Monsanto Company Benina Montes Paul and Yvonne Murai Vernon and Carol Peterson / Abundant Harvest Organics Richard Pidduck R. Gorrill Ranch Enterprises Rabobank, N.A. Rick Vorpe and Evelyn Matteucci Sally Hughes Church Foundation Saticoy Lemon Association Union Bank of California Foundation Tim York
Gary Cusumano Errotabere Ranches Finch Farms Gail Gray Greenleaf Farms, Inc. Hidden Villa Ranch The James R. Moffett Family Foundation Bradford and Randall Lange / LangeTwins Winery & Vineyards Limoneira Fund at VCCF McClarty Family Foundation Mann Packing Company David and Melissa Martella Tom and Brianne McGrath Craig Pedersen Person & Son Cattle Co. Peter Peterson Prudential Ag Investments Rain for Rent Meredith Rehrman Ritchie Rolling Ridge Ranch Janette Smith Rod and Carol Stark Supima Cotton Ventura County Community Foundation
FUNDRAISING AND SPECIAL EVENTS World Ag Expo Ag Leadership Alumni Breakfast
>>Major sponsors ($15,000 and above): Zenith Insurance Company/Zenith Ag and State Compensation Insurance Fund Dean Brown Golf Tournament
>>Special thanks to Hampton Farming Company Region 9 Golf Tournament
>>Major sponsors: Calavo Growers and Paramount Citrus Colusa Farm Show Breakfast Common Threads, Fresno
FELLOWS LEADERSHIP CIRCLE $5,000 and above
AGR Partners Blue Diamond Growers Margaret Duflock Craton Capital
19 SUMMER 2014 HORIZONS MAGAZINE
This issue of Horizons is brought to you in part by a generous grant from Rabobank.
HORIZONS MAGAZINE is published by the California Agricultural Leadership Foundation for alumni, donors, supporters and friends. Phone: 831-585-1030 www.agleaders.org
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