Category: News Releases

Annual celebration recognizes outstanding leadership and service to California agriculture. 

MONTEREY, Calif., Aug. 25, 2026 — The California Agricultural Leadership Foundation (CALF) will honor five alumni for their leadership, service and contributions to California agriculture during the 2026 Ag Leadership Awards Ceremony and Class 56 Inauguration on Friday, Oct. 2, in Fresno. 

“Our alumni demonstrate the lasting impact of Ag Leadership through the ways they serve, lead and strengthen California agriculture,” said Lesa Eidman, president and CEO of the California Agricultural Leadership Foundation. “This year’s five honorees, representing Classes 1 through 45, reflect the enduring legacy of the program and the many ways our alumni continue to make a meaningful difference across the industry and in their communities.” 

Lifetime Leadership Award 

The Lifetime Leadership Award recognizes individuals whose careers demonstrate exceptional leadership and a sustained commitment to strengthening California agriculture, their communities and the people around them. 

Alfonso “Al” Guilin, Class 1 –  A member of Ag Leadership’s inaugural class, Al Guilin built a distinguished career at Limoneira Company, serving as vice president and championing innovations in farmworker relations, training and workforce development. His lifetime of service includes nearly three decades as a deacon at St. Sebastian Church and more than 50 years with the Santa Paula Rotary, where he established a scholarship program that supports local students. For more than five decades, Al has remained a dedicated ambassador for Ag Leadership, mentoring others and inspiring generations of agricultural leaders to participate in the program. 

Steve Heringer, Class 9  – A fifth-generation Clarksburg farmer and Ag Leadership Class 9 alumnus, Steve Heringer has carried his family’s agricultural legacy forward through Heringer Estates Family Vineyards & Winery. His impact extends beyond the farm through service to organizations including the Yolo County Farm Bureau and efforts to preserve Clarksburg’s agricultural heritage for future generations. 

Doug Circle, Class 25 – Doug Circle has demonstrated a lifetime of leadership as an agricultural entrepreneur, industry advocate and mentor. He built Sunrise Growers and Frozsun Foods into major strawberry enterprises, provided decades of leadership to California’s strawberry industry, and organized more than 100 Central Coast landowners to protect their water rights. Through his family foundation and board service, Doug supports more than 50 faith-based and humanitarian causes in numerous countries, while continuing to mentor emerging agricultural leaders and invest in the Ag Leadership community. 

Profiles in Leadership Award 

The Profiles in Leadership Award recognizes Ag Leadership alumni who exemplify the values of the program through their leadership, professional accomplishments, service and commitment to making a difference. 

Correen “Corrie” Davis, Class 45, As managing partner of Gorrill Ranch and board president of the Western Canal Water District, Corrie Davis has demonstrated exceptional leadership in agriculture, water management and environmental stewardship. She has made Gorrill Ranch a model for collaboration through its nationally recognized role in the Butte Creek Salmon Restoration Project. Corrie has also provided dedicated leadership to CALF as a board member, helping strengthen its educational programming and prepare future generations to lead and serve California agriculture. 

Brian Talley, Class 30, As president and co-owner of Talley Farms and Talley Vineyards, Brian Talley has spent decades advancing California agriculture through innovation, advocacy and service. He helped establish the SLO Coast AVA, founded the Fund for Vineyard and Farm Workers, and created the Talley Farms Box to connect families throughout California with locally and regionally grown food. Brian also serves on the AgWest Farm Credit Board of Directors and has demonstrated a longstanding commitment to Ag Leadership, including annually hosting current fellows, prospective applicants and alumni at Talley Vineyards. 

Welcoming Class 56 and Honoring Anniversary Classes 

The evening will also mark the inauguration of Class 56 of the California Agricultural Leadership Program welcoming 24 new fellows as they begin their Ag Leadership journey. 

The event will also recognize anniversary Classes 6, 16, 26, 36 and 46, bringing together multiple generations of Ag Leadership alumni to celebrate the program’s continued impact across California agriculture. 

Event Details 

The Class 56 Inauguration and Ag Leadership Awards Ceremony will take place Friday, Oct. 2, 2026, at the DoubleTree Hotel, 2233 Ventura Ave., Fresno. 

Tickets are $60 per person. Reservations are requested by Sept. 30 at agleaders.org. 

About the California Agricultural Leadership Foundation 

The California Agricultural Leadership Foundation (CALF) is dedicated to growing leaders who have the vision and capacity to advance, benefit, and promote California’s agricultural community. Since its founding in 1970, more than 1,500 fellows of the California Agricultural Leadership Program have become lifelong leaders, serving as catalysts for a vibrant agricultural industry and making lasting contributions to their businesses, communities, and families. CALF delivers a comprehensive and diverse leadership curriculum in collaboration with its five partner universities: UC Davis, Cal Poly Pomona, Fresno State, Cal Poly San Luis Obispo, and Chico State. 

For more information about the California Agricultural Leadership Foundation and the California Agricultural Leadership Program, visit agleaders.org. 

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California Agricultural Leadership Foundation Announces Class 56 Ag Leadership Fellows

MONTEREY, August 17, 2026 – The California Agricultural Leadership Foundation (CALF) has selected Class 56 of the California Agricultural Leadership Program (CALP), bringing together 24 individuals from across California agriculture for the foundation’s signature 17-month leadership development experience.

Now in its 56th year, the Ag Leadership Program continues to use a rigorous application process to identify individuals across California’s agricultural industry who demonstrate exceptional promise as leaders and a strong commitment to the future of the state’s farms, ranches and rural communities.”

Through in-state leadership seminars held with CALF’s five partner universities, national and international travel seminars, fellows strengthen their ability to navigate complexity, lead through change and make a lasting impact on their businesses, organizations, communities and California agriculture.

“Class 56 honors our founders’ vision by strengthening the representation of production agriculture among our fellows,” said Lesa Eidman, president and CEO of the California Agricultural Leadership Foundation. “It is especially meaningful that, for the first time in our history, women make up the majority of the class.

“These fellows represent the evolving face of California agriculture and embody the bold, capable and diverse leadership needed to navigate change and build a stronger future for the industry and the communities they serve.”

Class 56 represents a wide range of sectors within California agriculture, including farming and ranching, agricultural labor, crop inputs and services, water and natural resource management, conservation, state government, regulatory programs, agricultural technology, and food production.

Class 56 Fellows

Amran Bath — Sunrise Ag Labor, Yuba City

Lindsay Cederquist — Diversified Land Management, Clovis

Brooks Craven — Wilbur-Ellis, Lemoore

Betsey Cunningham — WorkWise Strategic Solutions, Penngrove

Krystal Del Bosque — Del Bosque Farms, Los Banos

Nolon Doss — Doss Agricultural Services, Madera

Hector Hernandez — Reiter Affiliated Companies, Winnetka

Jenny Holtermann — Water Association of Kern County / H&H Family Farms, Shafter

Virginia Jameson — California Department of Food and Agriculture, Sacramento

Hannah Johnson — HJ&Co, Fresno

Gabrielle Katanic — Lundberg Family Farms, Sacramento

Ritta Martin — Glenn County RCD / Martin & Millsaps Ranch, Orland

Tawny Mata — California Department of Food and Agriculture, Winters

Wyatt Maysey — Taylor Farms, Pacific Grove

Tamar Melkonian — Nichols Farms, Fresno

Julia Michaels — Native Seed Group, Sacramento

Jenna Morales — California Department of Water Resources, Folsom

Andrew Nickus — Rockwood Ag Services, El Centro

Daniel Ostrowski — Land IQ, Davis

Andrew Parolini — Monterey Pacific, Inc., Santa Rosa

Ruben Ramirez — Wonderful Citrus, Bakersfield

Alyssa Rolen — California Rangeland Trust, Colusa

Katharine Rosser — Montna Farms, Marysville

Mariah Taylor Garcia — California Department of Pesticide Regulation, Clovis

Class 56 fellows will be formally welcomed at an inaugural ceremony on October 2^nd in Fresno, California. For more information about the Ag Leadership Program or to learn more about the Class 56 Fellows, visit agleaders.org. Tickets and additional event details are available at agleaders.org/events.

About California Agricultural Leadership Foundation

The California Agricultural Leadership Foundation (CALF) is dedicated to growing leaders who have the vision and capacity to advance, benefit, and promote California’s agricultural community. Since its founding in 1970, more than 1,500 fellows of the California Agricultural Leadership Program have become lifelong leaders, serving as catalysts for a vibrant agricultural industry and making lasting contributions to their businesses, communities, and families. CALF delivers a comprehensive and diverse leadership curriculum in collaboration with its five partner universities: UC Davis, Cal Poly Pomona, Fresno State, Cal Poly San Luis Obispo, and Chico State.

Media Contact:
Jessica Lara
CALF Marketing & Communications Manager

jlara@agleaders.org

 

MONTEREY, Calif. — The California Agricultural Leadership Foundation (CALF) has named Erin O’Donnell (Class 50) and Michael Frantz (Class 36) to its board of directors. 

O’Donnell is founder and CEO of Sustainable Ag Advisors, a consulting firm that helps California growers and processors capture more value from their sustainability efforts. Before founding the company, she spent more than a decade at Sun Valley Rice, most recently as vice president of sales. A Certified Sustainability Practitioner and Class 50 graduate of the California Agricultural Leadership Program, O’Donnell completed the Chief Sustainability Officer program through MIT Professional Education and holds a master’s degree in physics from Brandeis University. 

“I cannot overstate the impact that being a member of Class 50 of the California Agricultural Leadership Program continues to have on my life and approach to leadership,” O’Donnell said. “It is an honor to serve on the board of a foundation that has had such a profound impact on California agriculture through its investment in people. I look forward to helping ensure that future fellows have the same transformative experience that I did.” 

Frantz is president of Frantz Wholesale Nursery, a second-generation family-owned nursery serving retail and landscape customers across the western United States. A Class 36 graduate of the California Agricultural Leadership Program, Frantz is a respected leader in California agriculture and water policy. He chairs the Turlock Irrigation District board of directors and holds leadership roles with AmericanHort, Sustainable Conservation, the San Joaquin River Tributaries Authority and the California Department of Food and Agriculture’s Nursery Advisory Board. In 2023, he received CALF’s Profile in Leadership Award, one of the highest recognitions for Ag Leadership Alumni. 

“Joining Ag Leadership’s board is an opportunity to give back to a program that has profoundly shaped my life and the lives of so many California agricultural leaders,” Frantz said. “The fellowship forged relationships that I carry with me daily and made my life immeasurably richer. I am honored to now help cultivate that same experience for others.” 

“I am honored to welcome Michael Frantz and Erin O’Donnell to the CALF Board of Directors,” said CALF Board Chair Mike Young (Class 35). “California agriculture faces increasing complexity, and our industry needs leaders who can build bridges, create trust and help others navigate change. Michael has demonstrated that kind of leadership through his stewardship of agricultural and water resources, while Erin has distinguished herself as a thoughtful voice on sustainability, innovation and agriculture’s connection to consumers and markets. Their perspectives will strengthen our board and help us continue developing leaders who make a difference for California agriculture and the communities it serves.” 

O’Donnell and Frantz join 11 current CALF board members representing a diverse cross-section of California agriculture, higher education and agribusiness. 

About California Agricultural Leadership Foundation 

The California Agricultural Leadership Foundation (CALF) is dedicated to cultivating leaders who have the vision and capacity to advance, benefit and promote California’s agricultural community. Since its founding in 1970, more than 1,500 fellows have completed the California Agricultural Leadership Program and gone on to serve as leaders throughout agriculture, business and their communities. CALF delivers a comprehensive leadership curriculum in collaboration with its five partner universities: UC Davis, Cal Poly Pomona, Fresno State, Cal Poly San Luis Obispo and Chico State. 

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Applications are now open for Class 56 of the California Agricultural Leadership Program (CALP), a transformative leadership experience for individuals shaping the future of California agriculture. The program invites mid-career individuals from across the agricultural industry to apply.

Led by the California Agricultural Leadership Foundation (CALF), the Ag Leadership Program has spent more than five decades developing leaders who drive positive change. With more than 1,500 alumni, program graduates serve as trusted leaders and engaged citizens across agriculture, business, government, and communities throughout California and across the globe.

“Ag Leadership pushed me to look inward and grow not just as a better farmer, but as a more intentional leader grounded in purpose,” said Jake Barcellos (Class 54), a fourth-generation farmer with A-Bar Ag Enterprises. “It shaped how I show up for my community and my family, reinforcing that leadership is lived every day through the example we set. If you’re ready to grow personally and professionally, Ag Leadership is an opportunity you shouldn’t pass up.”

The immersive program is designed to stretch perspectives, strengthen leadership capacity, and deepen understanding of the complex systems that influence agriculture. Fellows engage in a dynamic curriculum focused on leadership development, effective communication, emotional intelligence, critical thinking, and navigating change. Through individualized coaching, experiential learning, and facilitated dialogue, participants gain the confidence and clarity needed to lead with purpose in an evolving global landscape. Each class is limited to 24 fellows, creating a highly selective and personalized leadership experience.

“For more than 56 years, the Ag Leadership Program has focused on developing leaders who are prepared to make a meaningful impact across California agriculture and their communities,” said Lesa Eidman (Class 49), president and CEO of the California Agricultural Leadership Foundation. “We are seeking individuals who are curious, committed, and ready to invest in their own growth while helping shape the future of our industry.”

The program includes approximately 55 days of formal programming delivered over 17-months through an integrated curriculum supported by CALF’s five partner universities: Cal Poly Pomona, Cal Poly San Luis Obispo, Fresno State, Chico State, and UC Davis. Fellows learn from distinguished educators and thought leaders and participate in national and international travel seminars that broaden global awareness, explore public policy, and examine the cultural and economic forces shaping agriculture.

CALF invests more than $70,000 per fellow to deliver this life-changing experience, made possible through the generosity of alumni, individual donors, and industry partners. Prospective applicants are encouraged to connect with program alumni and attend a prospective applicant event to learn more about the Ag Leadership journey.

More information and the application forms are available at https://www.agleaders.org/class56apply/ Phase One of the three-phase application process must be completed by March 27, 2026. Early applications are encouraged.

About California Agricultural Leadership Foundation

The California Agricultural Leadership Foundation (CALF) is dedicated to cultivating leaders who have the vision and capacity to advance, benefit, and promote California’s agricultural community. Since its founding in 1970, more than 1,500 fellows of the California Agricultural Leadership Program have become lifelong leaders, serving as catalysts for a vibrant agricultural industry and making lasting contributions to their businesses, communities, and families. CALF delivers a comprehensive and diverse leadership curriculum in collaboration with its five partner universities: UC Davis, Cal Poly Pomona, Fresno State, Cal Poly San Luis Obispo, and Chico State.

Media Contact:
Jessica Lara
CALF Marketing and Communications Manager
jlara@agleaders.org

MONTEREY, Calif. — December 9, 2025, The California Agricultural Leadership Foundation (CALF) is proud to announce the upcoming Ag Leadership breakfast fundraisers at the Colusa Farm Show and World Ag Expo. These long-standing events bring together alumni, industry partners and friends of agriculture for meaningful connection, inspiration and community. More than just gatherings, these breakfasts are significant fundraisers that directly support CALF’s mission of growing leaders who make a difference across California agriculture. Attendees will enjoy engaging keynote speakers, celebrate industry leadership and contribute to the continued growth of the Ag Leadership Program.

24th Annual Colusa Farm Show Breakfast — Feb. 4, 2026
The 2026 Colusa Farm Show Breakfast will be held at 7:00 a.m. on Thursday, Feb. 4 at Saint Bernadette’s Hall, Colusa.

Keynote Speaker: Don Cameron, President of the California State Board of Food and Agriculture.
Cameron is General Manager of Terranova Ranch and a recognized pioneer in groundwater recharge in the San Joaquin Valley. Farming 25 diverse crops in a district with no surface water rights, he has led innovative groundwater sustainability efforts while serving in leadership roles with the California Tomato Growers Association, California Cotton Alliance, Western Growers Association and the McMullin Area Groundwater Sustainability Agency.

32nd Annual Ag Leadership Alumni World Ag Expo Breakfast — Feb. 12, 2026
The 2026 breakfast will take place at 6:30 a.m. on Wednesday, Feb. 12 in the VIP Tent South, International Agri-Center, Tulare.

Keynote Speaker: David Carr, former Fresno State star, No. 1 NFL Draft pick and Super Bowl champion.
Carr led Fresno State to an 11–3 season, earned the Johnny Unitas Golden Arm Award and the Sammy Baugh Trophy, and became the first overall pick in the 2002 NFL Draft. Over his NFL career, he played for the Houston Texans, Carolina Panthers, San Francisco 49ers and New York Giants — winning a Super Bowl title in 2011. Today, he is a lead analyst for the NFL Network, hosts a weekly iHeart Media program and co-hosts the Home-Grown podcast.

These signature events not only fuel CALF’s leadership development programs but also strengthen the network of alumni and supporters who power the future of California agriculture. We invite our Ag Leadership community and industry partners to join us, reconnect and invest in the next generation of leaders who will shape our fields, businesses and communities.

Tickets are available now at: www.agleaders.org/events/

About the California Agricultural Leadership Foundation
The California Agricultural Leadership Foundation (CALF) is dedicated to cultivating leaders who have the vision and capacity to advance, benefit, and promote California’s agricultural community. Since its founding in 1970, more than 1,500 fellows of the California Agricultural Leadership Program have become lifelong leaders, serving as catalysts for a vibrant agricultural industry and making lasting contributions to their businesses, communities, and families. CALF delivers a comprehensive and diverse leadership curriculum in collaboration with its five partner universities: UC Davis, Cal Poly Pomona, Fresno State, Cal Poly San Luis Obispo, and Chico State.

Media Contact:
Jessica Lara
Marketing and Communications Manager
California Agricultural Leadership Foundation

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

California Ag Leadership Foundation to Honor 2025 Lifetime Leadership Award & Profiles in Leadership Award Recipients

September 3, 2025 – Monterey, California — The California Agricultural Leadership Foundation (CALF) is proud to announce the recipients of its prestigious leadership awards.  These awards recognize Ag Leadership Program alumni for leadership actions that have had an impact on our industry, communities, and the Foundation.

“We are honored to celebrate Dr. Peggy Perry, Bart Fisher, Mike Boeger, and Dino Giacomazzi for their outstanding leadership and service,” said Lesa Eidman, President & CEO of the California Agricultural Leadership Foundation. “Each of these honorees exemplifies servant leadership.  Through their vision, integrity, and commitment, they have advanced California agriculture, enriched the lives of others, and set a powerful example for future leaders. Their impact will be felt for generations to come.”

Lifetime Leadership Award
The Lifetime Leadership Award celebrates alumni who have demonstrated leadership throughout their lives, making significant and lasting contributions to California agriculture, their industries, and their communities.

Dr. Peggy Sears Perry (Class 9)
Professor Emeritus at Cal Poly Pomona, Dr. Perry has dedicated nearly four decades to teaching plant science and leadership. A longtime member of the CALF Education Team, she has advanced agricultural literacy and leadership development for generations of California leaders.

Bart Fisher (Class 5)
A third-generation farmer from Blythe, Bart Fisher has led on Colorado River water issues for more than 30 years, serving on agricultural boards and negotiating landmark agreements. Under his leadership, Fisher Farms successfully transitioned to its second century while he mentored countless leaders and served his community.

Profiles in Leadership Award

Established in 1995, the Profiles in Leadership Award honors alumni whose purposeful and impactful actions have benefited industry, community, government, education, or the environment.

Mike Boeger (Class 7)
A rice farmer and education advocate, Mike Boeger transformed Butte Community College as board president and strengthened the rice industry through his leadership on the California Rice Research Board. His service reflects integrity, innovation, and commitment to future generations.

Dino Giacomazzi (Class 36)
A fourth-generation farmer from Hanford, Dino Giacomazzi is known for innovation and advocacy. He founded organizations to address water, education, and dairy issues, and has been a pioneer in ag-tech and digital outreach, connecting and inspiring California agriculture.

This year’s recipients will be recognized during the Class 55 Inauguration & Awards Dinner on October 3, 2025, in Fresno, California.  The evening will begin with a welcome reception hosted by the Alumni Council at 5:45 p.m., followed by the awards presentation and the inauguration of Class 55. Ticket and RSVP information is available at agleaders.org/events.

About California Agricultural Leadership Foundation

The California Agricultural Leadership Foundation (CALF) is dedicated to cultivating leaders who have the vision and capacity to advance, benefit, and promote California’s agricultural community. Since its founding in 1970, more than 1,400 fellows of the California Agricultural Leadership Program have become lifelong leaders, serving as catalysts for a vibrant agricultural industry and making lasting contributions to their businesses, communities, and families. CALF delivers a comprehensive and diverse leadership curriculum in collaboration with its five partner universities: UC Davis, Cal Poly Pomona, Fresno State, Cal Poly San Luis Obispo, and Chico State.

Media Contact:
Jessica Lara
CALF Marketing & Communications Manager

jlara@agleaders.org