h o r i z o n sCalifornia Agricultural Leadership Foundation Magazine

SUMMER/FALL 2012

The Impact of Class Projects

We grow leaders who make a difference.

GIVING BACK

CHAIR MESSAGE >>

California Agricultural Leadership Foundation Magazine

Summer/Fall 2012 • www.agleaders.org

OCTOBER

3-6 Class 42 seminar, San Rafael17-19 Class 43 seminar, Fresno18 Class 43 inaugural, Fresno

NOVEMBER

8-10 Class 43 seminar, San Luis Obispo12-14 Class 42 seminar, Pomona

JANUARY

30 Agricultural and Government Leaders

Reception, Sacramento

CALENDAR OF EVENTS

PAG

E >>

2

CALF BOARD OF DIRECTORSChair/ Loren Booth

Vice Chair/ Jeff Elder Secretary - Treasurer/ Mary-Ann Warmerdam

John ColbertA.G. Kawamura

Ejnar KnudsenJoe MacIlvaine

Chris NelsonRod Stark

Pierre TadaDeanna van Klaveren

Dr. Lester YoungRob Yraceburu

CALF STAFF President and CEO / Bob Gray

| bob.gray@agleaders.orgDirector of Education / Dr. Michael Thomas

| mthomas@agleaders.orgDirector of Development / Rick Vorpe

| rick.vorpe@agleaders.orgProgram Advisor / Dr. Charlie Crabb

| ccrabb@agleaders.orgFinance & Human Resources / Teresa Straub

| tstraub@agleaders.orgProgram Coordinator / Judy Sparacino

| jsparacino@agleaders.orgEnterprise Coordinator / Emily Clark

| eclark@agleaders.org

WRITER/EDITORMeredith Rehrman Ritchie

mritchie@agleaders.org

DESIGNERTMDcreative

LESSONS LEARNED IN

WASHINGTON, D.C. AND MICHIGAN

A message from Loren Booth and Bob Gray

These are powerful words, and in these times of un-certainty, expanding government and global pres-sures, we need to make a difference. Governmental rules and regulations and ever increasing compliance costs take more of your time, energy and profit base. This is not news to any of you. Production agricul-ture and our ability to produce a safe food supply have never faced the challenges we do today. We need to fight for our survival; nobody will do it for us. If we

don’t speak up effectively, then other voices will be heard. We cannot do this alone. We must work together.

California agriculture feeds the world and our freedom is dependent upon these agrarian roots. The sustainability of the California Agricul-tural Leadership Foundation for future generations is paramount. Ag Leadership needs you and you need Ag Leadership. Please donate today. Every dollar helps us continue to build our legacy of leadership. You can make it happen! Don’t expect a miracle – be one.

Best,Loren Booth (27)Chair, CALF Board of Directors

“We grow leaders who make a difference.”

Page 7

COVER STORY4 Class Projects

FEATURES7 Class 42 National Travel Seminar

10 Class 41 Commencement

11 Commencement Address by Karen Ross

13 Leadership Focus: Dr. Sara Daubert

16 Guest Column: Lisa Bodrogi (39)

17 Alumni Spotlight: Burt Bundy (29)

DEPARTMENTS2 Chair Message

2 Calendar

3 Foundation News

14 Alumni Council

18 Alumni & Fellows News

19 Donor Recognition

PAG

E >>

3

CALF is pleased to announce that Darlene Din, a Class 35 alumna and former Alumni Council Region 5 director, has accepted a part-time assignment on a project-specific basis to help Ag Leadership with key initiatives. She started on July 1.

Din will remain an independent contractor pursuing her oth-er business interests, but will devote a fraction of her week to CALP alumni and outreach projects. She is not becoming a staff member in this role, but will assist and enable and add value to what the foundation does. She will report to CALF President Bob Gray.

In particular, Din will assist the Alumni Council on matters of institutional history and event continuity, on training, ori-entation, volunteerism and best practices. She will document her work for future leaders. Din will also assist the founda-tion development effort with targeted outreach by helping to identify key contacts within the agricultural vendor, supplier, manufacturing, service, commodity, trade association, and special interest communities that broadly support the indus-try in the state.

Please join us in welcoming Darlene’s energy and enthusiasm to Ag Leadership!

GET TO KNOW CALF’s Special Assistant for Alumni and Outreach

COVER STORY4 Class Projects

FEATURES7 Class 42 National Travel Seminar

10 Class 41 Commencement

11 Commencement Address by Karen Ross

13 Leadership Focus: Dr. Sara Daubert

16 Guest Column: Lisa Bodrogi (39)

17 Alumni Spotlight: Burt Bundy (29)

DEPARTMENTS2 Chair Message

2 Calendar

3 Foundation News

14 Alumni Council

18 Alumni & Fellows News

19 Donor Recognition

AG LEADERSHIP >> Foundation News

The foundation is privileged to have a partner univer-sity dean always serving on our board of directors. Their expertise, guidance and encouragement from an educa-tional institution’s perspective are extremely valuable to Ag Leadership.

Dr. Neal Van Alfen, dean of the College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences at UC Davis, completed his two-year term on the CALF board of directors in June 2012. Replacing Dr. Van Alfen is Dr. Lester Young, dean of the College of Agriculture at Cal Poly-Pomona.

Get to Know Dr. Lester YoungDr. Young was appointed dean in January 2009. Previ-ously, he served at Cal Poly-Pomona as interim dean of the College of Agriculture (2007-08), associate vice president of student services (2006-07), associate dean of the College of Agriculture (2002-06), and professor of ag biology (1985-2003). Dr. Young is a recipient of the college’s Advisor of the Year Award and the univer-sity’s Champion of Diversity Award. He has served on various advisory committees and councils, including the CSU Agricultural Advisory Committee and 12 years on the Cal Poly-Pomona Asian Pacific Faculty, Staff, Student Association. Off campus, he serves on the board of the American Association of Schools and Colleges of Agriculture and Renewable Resources. Dr. Young received his bachelor’s degree in zoology from CSU, Los Angeles; a master’s degree in bioscience from California State University, East Bay; and his Ph.D. in entomology from U.C. Berkeley.

Thank You Dr. Van AlfenDr. Van Alfen has been a dedicated and enthusiastic ad-vocate for Ag Leadership for many years. We appreciate his service, insight and leadership on the CALF board for the past two years. Further, he is always a gracious and welcoming host for our fellows and alumni when seminars and events are held at UC Davis.

University Deans Rotate on CALF Board

AG LEADERSHIP >> Cover StoryPA

GE

>> 4

Sacramento Loaves & Fishes is a facility that feeds the hungry, provides shelter and offers programs for men, women and children. Visiting and volunteering at the facility – a valuable part of the UC Davis seminar for many years – has enhanced the fellows’ learning of community service and leadership.

In 2011, Class 41 fellows Matt Toste and Stuart Mast approached Loaves & Fishes Director Sister Libby about doing a project at the facility. Her request was a storage building for the cafeteria. One weekend, all Class 41 fellows gathered at Loaves & Fishes and had an old-fashioned barn raising to build the shed. The shed now provides a safe storage space for racks, mixers, cutting boards and other supplies.

“We have received so much heartfelt praise from all of the staff at Loaves & Fishes,” said Mast. “This is a project that all of Ag Leadership can be proud of.”

An essential part of the Ag Leadership Program experience is the class project. Over the years, many classes

have produced meaningful class projects that have benefited communities, organizations, groups of people,

or the agricultural industry. The projects underscore lessons that Ag Leadership strongly encourages – giving

back, stepping up, demonstrating collaboration and leadership, and making a difference. Horizons features

some of the more recent accomplishments.

IMPACTClass Projects Make an

THE RED BARN

After seeing the impact of gangs on inner city youth in Los Angeles and spending a seminar on crime and punishment, Class 41 fellows determined that another class project should focus on youth. Many ideas were discussed. Ali Elhassan suggested building a park in a farm worker community. Vernon Peterson was in the final stages of planning just such an endeavor in one of the toughest communities in the state – New London – and he proposed that Class 41 spearhead the building of a basketball court.

The basketball court was the first of many planned projects at the site. Class 41’s donation was a huge catalyst for those additional projects (funded by other individuals and groups), which included

a sand volleyball court, a learning center, a community garden, and a training center/home for people who want to work with the poor in a real world environment. Nearly $200,000 was raised, largely from private ag-related donations. But it all started with a basketball court and leaders finding a common voice to make a difference. The complete infrastructure was in place by May 2012.

“Several of us were there for the dedication, and it was moving to see the gratitude of the community, as well as their respect for the project,” said Peterson. “It was also reassuring to see the breadth of support from the broader surrounding community. It made us feel like this project was sustainable. Class 41 sees this model as timely and replicable, and we hope it encourages many other communities in the state to do the same.”

AG LEADERSHIP >> Cover Story

PAG

E >>

5

Within the Ag Leadership framework of community giving, Class 41 decided to make a donation to a humanitarian organization in Ukraine. With the help of an international fund that seeks worldwide donations, the class was able to find a way to assist an orphanage in Kiev that houses 140 special needs girls.

Around the time of Class 41’s 2012 international travel seminar, the girls at the orphanage were preparing for an international art competition. Instead of food and clothes, the girls requested supplies to prepare for this competition.

Class Projects Make an

“Our class was able to generate enough funds to donate more than $1,000 to the orphanage,” said Jorge Suarez. “The funds were used to buy art supplies and several pounds of fruits and sweets. During our visit, we saw the talent these girls possess, as many pieces of their art were displayed on the walls. The girls, along with the administrative staff, were extremely appreciative of our donation. Those happy faces will never be forgotten.”

THE BASKETBALL COURT

THE ORPHANAGE

PAG

E >>

6AG LEADERSHIP >> Cover Story

Introducing inner city students to the exciting world of agriculture was the goal of Class 40’s community-focused class project. In 2011 and 2012, fellows organized and funded an ag field trip that took Oakland middle school students to the Central Valley. The students were selected because of their involvement with REAL Choices, a local youth intervention program run by Vernell Crittendon, former San Quentin spokesperson.

The field trips were an incredible and special opportunity to expose these kids to things they’d never seen before in person – cows being milked, cheese being made and crops being grown. During both years the students explored Hilmar Cheese Company, where they participated in an educational tour of the facility. In addition, they toured working dairies – Clauss Dairy Farms in 2011 and Bill Ahlem Dairy in 2012.

“We were extremely excited to provide these unique field trips for two consecutive years. We’ve had great experiences and feedback both times,” said Dan Sutton (40). “The tour is a great opportunity not only for the students to witness and participate in an active agriculture experience, but also for the Ag Leadership Program fellows to engage in conversation and understand the challenges these students face.”

A class project 11 years in the making was finally achieved in 2012: the agriculture special interest license plate, better known as the “Cal Ag Plate.” Thanks to perseverance, commitment and collaboration, the project overcame the numerous challenges along the way.

The agricultural specialty license plate was initiated by Class 31 in 2000-2001. Fellows and supporters tried to get legislation

passed on three separate occasions (the first Senate bill was introduced on Feb. 23, 2001). But there were always setbacks on the road to success.

“Vision alone was not enough,” said Tim Vaux (31). “We learned a number of lessons along the way – partisan politics, patience, humility, persistence, and the fact that no single person can accomplish a goal like this alone. Many people pitched in to make this

a reality, including Class 31, Class 39 and other alumni. The leaders of many trade and commodity groups got on board to support it. Former CDFA secretary A.G. Kawamura kept the dream alive when he announced the plate’s availability in April 2010. CDFA Secretary Karen Ross and the California FFA Foundation pushed it across the finish line by promoting the plate. It doesn’t matter who gets the credit as long as the goal was reached!”

3131 THE CAL AG PLATE

With more than 8,300 orders, the ag plate will make its debut in 2013. Funds will support future generations of farmers and ranchers through ag education, career awareness, career training and youth leadership programs.

THE AG FIELD TRIP

PAG

E >>

7

AG LEADERSHIP >> National Travel Seminar

LESSONS LEARNED IN D.C. AND MIChIgAN

>> Class 42 traveled to Washington, D.C. and Michigan

for a powerful 10-day national travel seminar in

March. The trip provided a valuable experiential

learning opportunity to deepen their leadership

skills being developed in the program.

From meeting with government, business,

community and educational leaders to visiting

the historic Gettysburg Battlefield, fellows learned

about different styles of leadership in a variety

of situations.

PAG

E >>

8

>>

Learning about the political process and critical issues – challenges, negotiation, communication and leadership.

Deb

ate

and

Dis

sens

ion

Learning about Supreme Court legal debates, the value of disagreements/dissenting opinions, and the perspectives of Justice Stephen Breyer.

VIEWPOINT OF Rachelle Antinetti“If you are in a team meeting, working with colleagues, eating dinner with family, or you’re a Supreme Court Justice, there are dissenting opinions on everything from food to politics. The key lesson to embrace is having a respectful dialogue. Justice Breyer described this leadership lesson 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.”

AG LEADERSHIP >> National Travel Seminar

>>

VIEWPOINT OF Joe Ange “Washington, D.C. carries many preconceived notions about the mechanics on Capitol Hill, but I was both surprised and inspired by the passion and persistence of the younger generation of lobbyists and future representatives. We met with the United Egg Producers and The Humane Society and discussed their story of how they have roots in polar opposite viewpoints, yet were able find common ground through compromise. Representatives from the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association voiced disagreements on such compromise. My viewpoint is that these differences represent opportunities for dialogue and communication to understand dissimilarities and reach new agreements.”

>>

VIEWPOINT OF Ara Azhderian “A tale of two cities: I imagine Detroit as an American Sarajevo, its destruction more about ideology and the inability of leaders to change. But some people aren’t standing for it. Throughout the city, from its schools to its community gardens, people without sanction are taking charge, looking for forgiveness rather than permission, and acting as the true agents of change because, ‘Our children are here only a short time; they can’t wait for someone else to do this.’ This isn’t about tired philosophy or promises of sweeping reform. This is practical. This is imaginative. This is powerful. This is inspiration.”

>>VIEWPOINT OF Cade Johnson“Justice Breyer highlighted a civil aspect to dealing with dissension. He emphasized that the media hypes up disagreements between the justices when they are, in fact, all fairly close friends. I found it very interesting that the Constitution was only a limited factor in his decision-making and that international law and his personal life experiences also play just as much of a vital role. He emphasized this openness to foreign ideas as being contrary to Justice Scalia, but pointed out that they are actually friends. He said that in all of his years as a Supreme Court justice he’d never heard a raised voice during a dissent amongst the justices.”

Com

prom

ise

vs.

Lack

of C

ompr

omis

e

PAG

E >>

9

Learning about the importance of groups, organizations and agencies working together and overcoming differences to work toward a goal or agreement.

Learning about the complex leadership strategies, failures and successes at Gettysburg.

Learning about the positive results of community service, leadership in education, and problem solving.

AG LEADERSHIP >> National Travel Seminar

VIEWPOINT OF Christopher Nichols“Our national trip showed us firsthand some of the many challenges we face as leaders. We witnessed collaboration occur between several groups with strongly opposed views on a variety of issues. A great example of this was seen during our visit with Chad Gregory from United Egg Producers and Wayne Pacelle from HSUS in Washington, D.C. Starting from opposite sides of the table, they were able to walk us through the painstaking process of collaboration to form a bill that both organizations felt comfortable with and represented the best interests of their constituents.”

VIEWPOINT OF Carol Arnold“The Civil War battle at Gettysburg still captures our attention. Those days of terrible death and destruction offer many cautionary lessons, none greater than the necessity of clear communication. If Lee’s orders to Stuart had been more precise, the Southern cavalry could have provided vital intelligence on Northern troop movements. Instead, ambiguity was interpreted to suit the individual’s predilections. Leaders communicate so that the directed actions of group members are aligned with the overall strategic goals of the organization. Whether it is tens of thousands of lives or your company’s sales quota at stake, effective leadership requires effective communication.”

VIEWPOINT OF Nathan Dorn“The Catherine Ferguson Academy for girls, led by principal Athena Andrews, impacted me deeply. Dr. Andrews demonstrated immense leadership by doing everything required to get resources and results. Her actions were largely always in conflict with consensus, rules and popular opinions, but they delivered. This included a school animal and plant farm and biology classes that autopsied all types of road kill. The result was a 90% graduation rate and 100% graduation to college acceptance for girls who needed alternative means of completing their schooling. Her focus and faith reinforced the power of personal commitment to continue regardless of the obstacles and feedback.”

>> >> >>

VIEWPOINT OF Elisa Noble “The HSUS/UEP agreement regarding national standards for hen welfare is unprecedented. Whether you support or oppose it, you should appreciate UEP’s willingness to try a new approach. UEP recognized that the ensuing patchwork of different state laws would cause many of their members to go out of business. UEP was essentially pressured into considering compromise by HSUS’ actions, but its executive director still took a risk by engaging in dialogue with HSUS. UEP has caused a major rift among all other agricultural groups who adamantly oppose the agreement. Time will tell if UEP was visionary or unwise with its decision.”

VIEWPOINT OF Cameron Boswell “Upon reflection from our visit, it is truly remarkable when you consider the ability of the leaders at the Battle of Gettysburg to coordinate complex systems of people – in terms of enabling physical advantages through manipulating logistics and the environment, as well as motivating and inspiring people to do things they would never do on their own. The leverage to influence these complex systems of moving parts came with the ability to rapidly manage change with strategies that enabled and motivated success.”

VIEWPOINT OF Brenda Farias“The community members of Detroit have a vision for the future of its citizens and their city. Many are trying to be proactive in their own neighborhoods through community gardens, in the schools through innovative thinking, and in the city they’re trying to re-establish a foundation. At the end of the day, my take-home message is that even the small projects in Detroit are making a difference and an open mind is key for future effective solutions in Detroit.”

>>>>

>>

Col

labo

ratio

n

Stra

tegi

c Le

ader

ship

Com

mun

ity R

evita

lizat

ion

AG LEADERSHIP >> CommencementPA

GE

>> 1

0

Rick BurnesAli Elhassan Matthew FisherJuan GuzmanCesar HernandezChristine IvorySteve KnudsenMatt LohseStuart MastJoey Mendonca Breanna Owens Vernon PetersonDan RodriguesDavid ShabazianElisabeth SilvaTodd SniderJorge SuarezStephanie TillmanMatt Toste

FROM THE FELLOWS:

“OUR SINCERE GRATITUDE IS EXTENDED TO THE CALIFORNIA AGRICULTURAL LEADERSHIP FOUNDATION, THE BOARD, AND EACH AND

EVERY DONOR WHO MADE OUR TWO-YEAR LEADERSHIP JOURNEY POSSIBLE. WE ARE GRATEFUL TO OUR FAMILY, FRIENDS, EMPLOYERS AND CO-WORKERS FOR

PICKING UP THE SLACK WHILE WE WERE GONE. AS WE EMBARK WITH A NEWLY LEARNED KNOWLEDGE OF LIFE, WE WILL CONTINUE TO BUILD UPON LESSONS FROM OUR TWO YEARS IN THE PROGRAM. WE FOUND THOSE LESSONS TO BE

PARTICULARLY IMPORTANT CONTEXT FOR UNDERSTANDING AND APPRECIATING EVERYTHING WE EXPERIENCED. AS WE REFLECT ON THIS PROGRAM, THE

LEADERSHIP, FOLLOWERSHIP, AND LIFE LESSONS WILL CONTINUE TO TAKE ROOT AND HELP US GROW AS LEADERS WHO MAKE A DIFFERENCE.”

Congratulations Class 41Class 41 commencement was held June 6 at Cal Poly, Pomona. The event marked a signifi-cant and emotional milestone for the 19 fellows. Their intensive 20-month Ag Leadership journey, which began in November 2010, included numerous university seminars, national and international trips, and community service class projects. We are proud of each of them for their hard work, commitment and achievement. These leaders will continue to learn and grow and effectively take on new challenges. We are excited about the meaningful leader-ship roles that they will undertake in the years to come.

AG LEADERSHIP AND THE FOUNDATION HOLD A SPECIAL PLACE IN MY HEART. Every day I am reminded of the vision and importance of what those who came before us did by creating and sustaining this program. My own Ag Leadership experience was in Nebraska, a state that continues to emulate all that is good about the Ag Leadership curriculum. When my husband announced we were moving to California for the job of his dreams shortly after I graduated from the Nebraska program nearly 25 years ago, I had no idea how I would start over in a new state. My first outreach was to the foundation and the Alumni Association – both warmly welcomed me and included me. I served on the ALA board and for seven years served on the Ag Education Foundation board. With all that history behind me, I make sure I look for Ag Leadership graduates wherever I travel in my role as secretary. I count on them for advice, creative solutions and vision on emerging issues and trends where CDFA can play a role. Every day I see firsthand how Ag Leadership grows leaders who make a difference – and I am thankful for it!

In preparing to meet with you today, I enjoyed learning more about your leadership experiences during your journey. The theme for your class is “Enhancing our Common Voice.” I love that! Bringing people together to focus on all that we have in common is what drives me. In a time where polarization trumps collaboration in the public policy arena that impacts ag in so many ways, we do not have the luxury of resources or time to allow our differences to drive us apart. Opposing sides usually have much in common. In the face of 21st century challenges and change, there is a compelling need for us to create a different way of operating on public policy. I’ve never been more optimistic about seizing this time to transform how we move forward – through collaboration and engagement – to broaden the stakeholder base of support for public policy to ensure the long-term viability of California agriculture. The Ag Leadership Program has given you tools to do this. You’ve developed a self-awareness of who you are and your story. You understand your strengths and limitations that will help you play a leadership role in the challenges and opportunities we

PAG

E >>

11

AG LEADERSHIP >> Commencement

“YOU HAVE TO STICK WITH

IT AND DIVE DEEPER INTO

THE CONVERSATION TO

HONESTLY AND DIRECTLY

DISCUSS THE TOUGH ISSUES,

BUT WITH RESPECT FOR

DIFFERENT PERSPECTIVES.”

Congratulations Class 41 Move Forward Through Collaboration and Engagement

CONGRATULATIONS CLASS 41 and to your family, friends, business colleagues and all those who have supported you on your Ag Leadership journey. It is such an honor for me to be here today.

Commencement address by Karen Ross, Secretary of the California Department of Food and Agriculture.

PAG

E >>

12

AG LEADERSHIP >> Commencement

face. You’ve also been given an understanding of group dynamics such as conflict resolution, team building and consensus building. Your exposure to social and cultural issues, and a deeper understanding of the world around you, has hopefully shown you the necessity of open-mindedness and tolerance, and the ability to have honest conversations while respectfully hearing diverse points of view. Based on my many experiences, I can assure you that collaboration is a messy, tedious process! I recently read the quote, “Politeness is poison to collaboration.” You have to stick with it and dive deeper into the conversation to honestly and directly discuss the tough issues, but with respect for different perspectives. In the end, it brings richer and longer-lasting results because it brings a variety of perspectives and disciplines to the table with a focus on commonalities rather than differences, which is essential for forward progress. The complexity of issues facing us today requires us to try new approaches. Henry Ford captured it many decades ago when he said, “If everyone is moving forward together, then success takes care of itself.” Being in the midst of another election season reminds us that we seem to live in a time where

we’d rather fight each other than work together for the common good. I truly believe those of us in California agriculture can help lead the way to show how we can move forward together. I say that because we are not only the largest and best agricultural state, we are the most diverse. Four hundred crops – and over 800 organizations that advocate in some way for agriculture! Our diversity is our resilience and what makes us strong. If we focus on our commonalities instead of our differences, we can make a difference. We live in an extraordinary time with regard to the number of media stories and web postings about food and agricultural production. News about food is everywhere. This week, NPR is featuring stories in its continuing coverage of “The Need to Feed 9 Billion.” Nine billion people – that’s the world population projection we’re looking at. That represents a profound opportunity for agriculture, but it also brings a lot of pressure. Either way, it is driving change and requires us to work across sectors, across borders, and across the globe to find solutions for how we grow, process and deliver food with fewer natural resources in the midst of climate change. Increasing production for global food security has to be

accomplished in the midst of fevered debate nationally and locally about the make-up of our food system. Should local production lead the way? Should we rely more on mass production? What is sustainable as we look to feed 9 billion people? I embrace the renewed interest of consumers in their food – where it is grown, how it is produced, and who is growing it. It is an invitation for consumers to connect with farmers and their food source, as well as an opportunity to connect rural and urban California. It is an invitation that comes with lots of questions about our practices and I admit that often those questions feels like accusations. But we have to resist the impulse to respond defensively. Too often we talk at each other rather than engage in a real conversation. My fear is that if we fail to engage with our consumers and the public at large we may lose the ability to utilize the science and technology that will help us meet the increasing needs of world population. By embracing the diversity of California agriculture, we can engage the consumer in an honest dialogue about the various practices we use, explaining why a product is available in the market place at various price points. I love telling folks that California agriculture produces food for every palate, pocket book and value system. It’s about choice for consumers, which lets California farmers choose the farming practices and business plan to fit the market channels they want to pursue. Consumer trust is the rarest of all commodities. Farmers, ranchers and all those

associated with the food system have a huge stake in building, nurturing and preserving that trust which will sustain agriculture. Class 41, you have an exciting opportunity to help lead the effort to directly engage with our public to maintain that trust – and you don’t have to start at ground zero. There are successes to build upon – through organizations like the California Roundtable on Agriculture and the Environment, The California Rangeland Coalition, the California State Board of Food and Agriculture’s Ag Vision and locally, 26 food policy councils and ag alliances. All of these efforts have succeeded in bringing diverse interests together. At heart, I am a populist from the prairie who is grateful every day for the opportunity I have had to live and work in my beloved adopted state of California. I believe fully in the Will Rogers admonition: “If you want to be successful, it’s just this simple. Know what you are doing. Love what you are doing. And, believe in what you are doing.” Class 41, take the tools learned from your Ag Leadership experience, combine it with your passion for California agriculture, and help us to engage our public in keeping California agriculture the unique treasure it is for our consumers here and around the world. Now, the next chapter of your journey begins. Congratulations and thank you for inviting me to share this day with you.

Trait Theory

PROMPTED BY THE GREAT MAN THEORY OF LEADERSHIP, and the emerging interest in understanding leadership and leadership characteristics, researchers began to look at the distinguishing characteristics of effec-tive leaders, which gave rise to early explo-ration into the trait approach to leadership. Sir Francis Galton is credited with being one of the first leadership theorists who mentioned the trait approach in his book “Hereditary Genius” (1869). In keeping with the era, Galton believed that leader-ship qualities were genetic quali-ties, passed down from one family member to the next. He wrote about qualities such as wisdom and cour-age being passed on, generation to generation. The trait theory of leadership is a very complex theory that makes the assumption that there are distinctive physical and psychological charac-teristics that account for leadership success. Traits such as height, at-tractiveness and intelligence almost always make the list of traits, as do values, integrity achievement, self-confidence, honesty, integrity and good communica-tion skills. Trait theory often identifies particular personality or behavioral characteristics that are present in leaders. Researchers in the field of leadership write about and identify core traits that seem to be present in most leaders. It is important to keep in mind that these traits do not solely identify a person as a leader, but may be seen as characteristics in persons with leadership

potential. A widely reported study of leadership traits was conducted by UC Berkeley Psychology Professor Edwin Ghiselli, who evaluated over 300 managers from 90 U.S. businesses. He identified six traits as being important for effective leadership:

Using Ghiselli’s six traits for successful leadership, how would you evaluate your-self or other leaders that you know? An interesting historic application of the trait theory was introduced by Paul von Hindenburg, war hero and second president of post-World War I Germany. He used a form of trait theory for selecting and developing leaders. He believed that leadership ability was put into two catego-ries: intelligence and vitality. He then used a matrix to evaluate potential leaders.

Ultimately, if an individual was deemed bright (vs. dull) and energetic (vs. lazy), he was developed as a field commander, be-cause it takes good judgment to succeed as a leader on the battlefield. If the individual was energetic but dull, he was assigned to duty as a frontline solider, because as

a leader he could command in the wrong direction. Individuals thought of as lazy and dull were left alone to find their own level of effectiveness. *See source Some may argue that the trait theory is not effective for measuring individual leadership traits because it may be subjective in determining “good” or “bad” or “bright” or “dull.” There may also be disagreement over which traits are the most effective – as the list of leader traits is so long. Most would agree, though, that the trait theory offers constructive information about leadership. Some of the advan-tages for understanding trait theory – especially in organizations – are that it can be applied to people at all levels of

all types of organizations. If managers are able to access their own strengths and weaknesses in relationship to certain leader traits, then they can develop their leadership qualities. If there are certain qualities that make your co-workers and employees good leaders, these talents need to be nurtured and developed. The evidence shows that traits do matter, but ultimately traits alone are not sufficient for successful business leadership. Individuals who possess leader traits must take certain actions to be successful!

PAG

E >>

13

AG LEADERSHIP >> Leadership Focus

Trait TheoryBy Dr. Sara Daubert

“It always seemed strange to me that the things we admire in men – kindness and generosity, openness, honesty, understanding and feeling – are all concomitants of failure in our system. And those traits we detest – sharpness, greed, acquisitiveness, meanness,

egotism and self-interest – are the traits of success. And while men admire the quality of the first, they love the produce of the second.”

—John Steinbeck

Recommended Reading: Lead to Success: 10 Traits of Great Leadership in Business and Life, by Rick PitinoThe 5 Levels of Leadership: Proven Steps to Maximizing Your Potential, by John C. Maxwell

O F L E A D E R S H I P

*Manning, G. and Curtis, K. (2012). The Art of Leadership. New York, NY: McGraw-Hill.

Need for achievement—seeking responsibility; working hard to achieve.Intelligence—using good judgment, having good reasoning skills/capacity.Decisiveness—making difficult decisions without hesitation.Self-confidence—having a positive self-image as a capable and effective person.Initiative—being a self-starter; getting jobs done with minimal supervision.Supervisory ability—getting the job done through others.

Ghiselli’s 6 Traits for Successful Leadership

1

2

3

4

5

6

PAG

E >>

14

Alumni Council

Meet the Executive Committee

AG LEADERSHIP >> Alumni Council

Regional DirectorsRegion 1: Holly Dawley (38), Tracy Schohr (39)Region 2: Paul Martin (10)Region 3: Jonnalee Henderson (39), Missy Borel (40)Region 4: Chase Hurley (35), Robin Flournoy (29)Region 5: Bill Hammond (40), Melissa Duflock (40)Region 6: Gail Gray (22), Tim Vaux (31)Region 7: Lino Bozzano (38), Lisa Bodrogi (39)Region 8: Diane Friend (15), Rob Geis (35)Region 9: Art Bliss (8), Leslie Leavens-Crowe (34)Region 10: Joyce Jong (39)At-Large: Noelle Cremers (35), Alexander Ott (37), Gerald DiBuduo (31), Mandy Critchley (37), Adam Icardo (35)

After growing up on the Southern California coast and graduating from Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo with a degree in agribusiness/finance in 1990, Rob made the move to the valley to try a career in agri-culture. Over 20 years later, his agricultural experi-ence includes agricultural lending, manager of a cot-ton gin and almond huller and sheller cooperative. Eight years ago, Rob joined Pacific Ag Management, Inc., a full service farm management company. As

senior vice president of finance and operations, he is responsible for overseeing the accounting, lender and service relationships, and all operational func-tions of 18 different client/entities totaling over 11,000 acres of tree and row crops. Rob is a partner on a 250-acre almond ranch with his boss. Rob and his wife, Kelly, reside in Bakersfield, where they’ve raised their three children, Amanda, Matt and Katy.

A fourth generation Ventura County resident, Art has grown lemons, avocados and specialty veg-etables. As the county became more urbanized, he owned and operated a number of Subway Restau-rants, while retaining an interest in the avocado acreage. But agriculture was always his first love, and after selling the restaurants, Art became an ac-credited rural appraiser specializing in farms and ranches. Now he divides his time between avocado

production and rural appraisals. Art is a director on the California Avocado Commission and the Ag Futures Alliance. He recently completed a term on the Education and Outreach Committee of the Specialty Crops Block Grant Program. Art has two adult daughters and lives in Somis with his wife, Toy, a Superior Court judge.

Rob Geis (35) – Chair

Art Bliss (8) – Vice Chair

Lisa Bodrogi (39) – Secretary/Finance

Lisa, principal and sole proprietor of Cuvée Con-sulting, is a land use and public policy advisor of-fering consulting services to nonprofits, wine grow-ers, farmers, ranchers and rural landowners in San Luis Obispo and Santa Barbara counties. Lisa serves Santa Ynez, Los Olivos, Buellton, Santa Maria, Or-cutt, Lompoc, Arroyo Grande, San Luis Obispo, Templeton, Atascadero, Paso Robles, Creston and San Miguel. She is also the government affairs co-ordinator for Paso Robles Wine Country Alliance,

a cooperative marketing alliance of wineries, vine-yards and related businesses. With over 200 discre-tionary and ministerial permits processed, and ex-tensive input into public policy documents in Santa Barbara and SLO counties, Lisa is a qualified wine industry and agricultural community advisor in the areas of land use and public policy affecting farm-ing, ranching, business and agricultural production operations. She is an active volunteer in the industry and community.

Executive CommitteeChair: Rob Geis (35)Vice Chair: Art Bliss (8)Secretary/Finance: Lisa Bodrogi (39)Immediate Past Chair: Mike Young (35) CALF Board Liaison: Deanna van Klaveren (32)

“OUR CLASS HAS ALWAYS

TREATED EACH OTHER LIKE

FAMILY MEMBERS,” SAID

CAMPBELL. “WE ARE VERY

PROUD OF OUR PARTICIPATION

AS AN EARLY CLASS IN THE AG

LEADERSHIP PROGRAM. OUR

DEVOTION TO EACH OTHER AND

THE PROGRAM IS EXTREMELY

STRONG.” PAG

E >>

15

Alumni Council

Class 3 Reunites in Clarksburg

Family, Friends and Fun at All Class Reunion

AG LEADERSHIP >> Alumni Events

THIS PAST MAY, 13 classmates – along with their wives and guests – gathered in Clarksburg for a reunion. Classmates participating included Mike Campbell (organizer), Gus Collin, Ron Enomo-to, Marc Faye, Mike Fitch, Myron Holdenreid, Tim Indart, Ben Olson, Bob Parks, Bob Rath-bone, Jeff Thomson, Richard Vaughn and Bob Wilbur. Mike Sill and Bill Colgate were repre-sented by their widows, Lynn and Pam.

Special guests included former Agricultural Edu-cation Foundation Director Gene Rapp and his wife, April; Charles Hess, UC Davis; Alex and Phyllis McCalla, UC Davis; former foundation board member Frank Saviez and his wife, Alice; and CALF Director of Development Rick Vorpe.

The reunion kicked off Friday evening with a social hour at Campbell’s home and dinner at the historic Husick’s Country Store. Saturday featured a morning bus tour of Delta agriculture and water delivery systems, with lunch at Al the Wop’s and a stop at the Asian Pacific Spring Festival in Locke. Guests enjoyed a wine tasting hosted by Steve Heringer (Class 9) at Heringer Estates in The Old Sugar Mill in Clarksburg, fol-lowed by a dinner barbecue at Campbell’s home. The barbecue was provided by Johanna Bradley (partner of the late Ernie Righetti) and her crew from Santa Maria in honor of Righetti, who passed away in February. Righetti’s barbecue had been a longtime tradition for Class 3.

Alumni, friends and staff gathered at the beautiful Booth Ranches in Minkler for our 2012 All Class Reunion in April. The Alumni Council and CALF put together a weekend of fun activities, entertainment and delicious meals – all in wonderful outdoor setting. In addition to socializing (which we do well!), attendees enjoyed golfing, fishing, hay rides, camping and dancing. Keynote speaker Congressman Devin Nunes (29) offered insightful remarks to the crowd on Friday night. In the popular chili cook-off, Class 22 earned its second straight first place finish and Class 32 earned the “people’s choice” award.

It’s been 40 years since Class 3 members began their Ag Leadership journey. Since then, they’ve been known as of one of our most close-knit classes.

A Sincere Thank You Wells Fargo Bank and Azzule Systems for their generous sponsorship.

Host Loren Booth (27) and the staff at Booth Ranches.

By Lisa Bodrogi, Class 39

PAG

E >>

16

AS WE EMBARK ON OUR AG LEADERSHIP JOURNEY, we are promised that the lessons learned will change our lives. Each year Ag Leadership delivers on that promise to the grad-uating class, and these lessons learned continue to unfold year after year.

My lessons learned were put to a real test toward the end of my Ag Leadership experience. The first way the program saved my life was with the lesson that to be a good leader it is important to take care of yourself. In the process of prepar-ing for our international trip (including getting shots, etc.), I realized I was late with my mam-mogram and made an appointment. Two weeks before our international trip I was diagnosed with breast cancer. With the support of my doc-tors and family, it was agreed that the surgery could wait until after I returned home.

Our trip to Peru and Ecuador was the trip of a lifetime. I lived each day to the fullest – taking in all the sights, sounds, colors and aromas around me. With an impending surgery, I wanted that trip to last a lifetime – and boy, has it ever!

The lessons I learned from Ag Leadership kicked into full gear in the succeeding weeks. I learned I had more cancer and I was in for a full invasive surgery and major reconstruction. Within 24 hours of the original surgery, I devel-oped complications and was rushed into emer-gency surgery, waking up in ICU.

While I lay there in a completely helpless and seemingly hopeless state, I drew upon my deep faith and lessons learned during Ag Leadership. The most significant lesson I learned during the program is that leadership is about manag-ing vulnerabilities and insecurities. During this time when my life was in question, I was re-minded of some poignant experiences.

I was reminded of our trip to Loaves and Fishes – the sights, sounds, and apparent hopeless-ness of the homeless. Yet in the midst of it all, a woman came over and sang a beautiful song of Thanksgiving and praise for her Lord who pro-vides her everything.

I was reminded of the prisoners at San Quentin, who were relegated to their beds as we walked through the entire auditorium. With cries for help and obscenities directed at us, I recalled the words that kept ruminating in my head: “Let there be love, Lord, let there be love.”

I was also taken back to the joy I felt working with the mentally impaired at Ability First, who seemed to have a real sense of humor eating the soil and flowers I was meticulously trying to help them plant.

It was the lessons learned during these mo-ments that taught me the incredible tolerance of the human spirit to withstand life’s challenges and struggles. These lessons kept me centered.

While I lay awake in the ICU listening to the sounds of suffering all around me, it was not entirely unfamiliar, and I was able to accept my vulnerability as another stop along my leader-ship journey.

Following graduation, my world was filled with five months of chemotherapy, nine weeks of ra-diation, additional surgeries and procedures. I was able to continue to work throughout this process from the consistent lesson we learned of how to live outside of our comfort zone.

Two years later and cancer-free, I am proudly serving on the Alumni Council as a way to give back to the program that gave so much to me. I have rejoined my volunteer efforts with the Cal-ifornia Women for Agriculture and assist other cancer patients going through their unique chal-lenges. As an alumna of Ag Leadership and a cancer survivor, I approach life with extra vigor and appreciation than ever before.

Ag Leadership gave me the strength and convic-tion to overcome life’s challenges and a renewed confidence in myself. This, coupled with the ad-miration and acceptance of others, has made me a better leader in my work as a public policy ad-visor, serving on committees, as a volunteer, and most importantly, as a wife and mother. This is why I say, “The program not only changed my life, but saved my life.”

AG LEADERSHIP >> Guest Column

Changed – And Saved – My LifeAg Leadership

PAG

E >>

17

Burt Bundy Serving Community, County and Industry

“MY PASSION HAS ALWAYS BEEN AGRI-CULTURE. IT’S BEEN MY LIFE, I FEEL VERY STRONGLY ABOUT IT, AND I’LL CONTINUE TO ADVOCATE FOR IT.”

AG LEADERSHIP >> Alumni Spotlight

EMERGING LEADERS COULD LEARN A GREAT DEAL from longtime leader Burt Bun-dy (29). He’s an ideal example of someone who has made a difference in variety of roles in his community, county and industry over many decades.

His latest endeavor: supervisor for Tehama County, the county he’s called home for almost his entire life. Bundy held the position before (1981-1993), but decided to run again nearly two decades later because he wanted to better represent his district and make a difference.

“There are some issues that are very important in our community, such as jobs, roads, public safety, getting funding for the fairgrounds, and other local challenges. Ag and resources are very important here, and they’re the topics I’m most passionate about, so I’ll focus on those as well.”

Bundy will take office in January 2013, not long after his 71st birthday. To prepare, he’s meeting with local authorities and department heads, attending supervisor meetings and gathering ideas.

“Being a supervisor was one of the most in-teresting jobs I’d ever done,” said Bundy. “I’m looking forward to this time around. When I began my first term as supervisor, I was the youngest one on the board. I’ve learned a lot since. I wish I’d gone through Ag Lead-ership back then!”

Bundy spent much of his time campaigning by talking with friends, neighbors and resi-dents – which he enjoyed. But he steered clear of dirty politics. “I talked with my op-ponent before the campaign and we agreed to keep it clean. I felt good about that. I ran on the issues only. I also didn’t take any campaign contributions.”

What undoubtedly contributed to Bundy’s vic-tory were his history, experience and leadership in the region.

He spent five decades as a small farmer and cattle rancher, and is a former feed store owner. He is currently president of Mill Creek Con-servancy and a member of the Shasta College Ag Advisory Committee and Central Tehama Kiwanis. Bundy has served as the Los Molinos Chamber of Commerce president and on the Tehama County General Plan Advisory Com-mittee and California Reclamation Board. His family has been involved with the Tehama Dis-trict Fair for more than 50 years.

Bundy also helped found and develop the Sacramento River Conservation Area Forum (SRCAF), a nonprofit that he managed for 10 years. SRCAF helps coordinates flood manage-ment and habitat activities along the river. “I’ve been proud of this endeavor,” he said. “It’s a bit controversial, but it has provided a voice for ev-erybody and that’s what I like about it.”

His longest lasting commitment has been with Farm Bureau. “A great organization to work for,” he said. Bundy served on the California Farm Bureau Federation board for seven years and has served on the Tehama County Farm Bureau board on and off since the 1960s.

It was with TCFB that Bundy utilized certain leadership skills to get through a devastating incident that occurred after he graduated from Ag Leadership.

“TCFB was facing an embezzlement issue and what it did to our board was the biggest dam-age,” said Bundy. “There was finger pointing, blaming and loss of trust. It was very divisive. It was an extremely challenging time for us. But I was able to take those split groups, bring people back together, and work out solutions. I learned that from Ag Leadership.”

Bundy credited Ag Leadership with another TCFB accomplishment. While president, he successfully secured enough funds (about $150,000) to build a new office. “I stepped up, but it was really a team effort. I could not have done it without Ag Leadership.”

Bundy’s efforts in Tehama County have earned him accolades. TCFB honored him with the Farmer of the Year Award in 2011. “I was to-tally surprised,” he said. “Production ag is very important to our economy here. It was impor-tant to be recognized as a small farmer and I was proud of the honor.”

He also received a resolution in 2007, present-ed by Senator (now Assemblyman) Jim Nielsen

(5), which recognized him for bringing to-gether communities, individuals, organi-zations and agencies along the Sacramento River, making resource management and restoration efforts more effective and sen-sitive to the needs of local communities.

“My passion has always been agriculture,” said Bundy. “It’s been my life, I feel very strongly about it, and I’ll continue to ad-vocate for it.”

On Ag Leadership

“Ag Leadership helped me tremendously. I wish that I’d done it earlier in life. Every aspect of the program was helpful. The national trip was very productive. Ag Leadership encouraged me to problem solve. It made me focus more on specific tasks and getting them done efficiently. It helped me with listen-ing skills, working with all sides, collaborating with different people. I met some really great people through the program – that was a big bonus. ”

CLASSES 1-9

George Soares (4) was one of five panelists at the San Luis Obispo Chamber of Commerce’s inaugural State of the State event in February. He joined Lt. Gov. Gavin Newsom, State Controller John Chiang, State Sen. Sam Blakeslee and former Assemblyman Fred Keeley.

CLASSES 10-19

John Crossland (10) was honored with the 2012 Winegrape Grower of the Year Award by the Paso Robles Wine Country Alliance and San Luis Obispo Vintners Association.

Paul Martin (10) was appointed by U.S. EPA to its Farm, Ranch, and Rural Communities Committee for the 2012-2014 term. FRRCC advises EPA on environmental issues important to agriculture and rural communities.

Roy Gill (19) was appointed by Gov. Brown to the 36th District Agricultural Association, the Dixon May Fair Board, where he previously served as a member from 1992 to 2008.

Dale Huss (19) was featured in the June/July 2012 issue of California Bountiful magazine (“Artichokes 101 – Meet the Farmer”).

CLASSES 20-29

A.G. Kawamura (20) was honored with the California State Fair Agriculturalist of the Year Award on July 6 at the State Fair Gala. The award is presented to an individual who has contributed extensively, in a professional capacity, to California agriculture and has demonstrated leadership for many years.

Pam Giacomini (21) was elected county supervisor/district 3 for Shasta County.

Kevin Herman (21) was named to the board of directors of the California Grape and Tree Fruit League.

Bob Lilley (22) was appointed by Gov. Brown to the 16th District Agricultural Association, Mid-State Fair Board.

Margaret D’Arrigo-Martin (24) joined Taylor Farms of Salinas as vice president of community development. She previously spent 21 years at D’Arrigo Bros. Co. of California, where she was executive vice president of sales and marketing.

Deidre Kelsey (25) was re-elected county supervisor/district 4 for Merced County. This is her fifth term.

Abel Maldonado (26) will run against incumbent Lois Capps in the November election for California’s 24th Congressional District. He received “Young Gun” status by the National Republican Congressional Committee.

Charley Mathews (26) was appointed by Gov. Brown to the 13th District Agricultural Association, Yuba-Sutter Fair Board, where he has served since 1996.

Joe Pezzini (28) was named Valley of the World Ag Leader by the National Steinbeck Center in Salinas.

Aaron Albaugh (29) was elected county supervisor/district 4 for Lassen County.

Burt Bundy (29) was elected county supervisor/district 5 for Tehama County.

CLASSES 30-39

Russ Lester (30) received the 2012 Sustainable Ag Champion Award from U.S. EPA’s Pacific Southwest Region. The award acknowledges significant contributions to protecting the environment.

Brian Talley (30) was honored with the 2012 Wine Industry Person of the Year Award by the Paso Robles Wine Country Alliance and San Luis Obispo Vintners Association.

Aaron Barcellos (34) was appointed by USDA Secretary Vilsack to The Cotton Board. His term will expire on Dec. 31, 2014.

Mike Young (35) was appointed by Gov. Brown to the 15th District Agricultural Association, Kern County Fair Board.

Cannon Michael (39) was appointed by Gov. Brown to the Merced Designated Local Authority, which is responsible for dissolving Merced’s local redevelopment agency.

CLASSES 40-42

Karm Bains (40) was appointed by Gov. Brown to the 13th District Agricultural Association, Yuba-Sutter Fair Board.

Jorge Suarez (41) was a panelist for “Roundtable: A Market-Based Approach to Immigration Reform.” The panel was part of a forum, hosted by The Hamilton Project at Brookings in Washington, D.C., exploring challenges and opportunities for immigration reform in today’s political and economic climate.

AG LEADERSHIP >> Alumni & Fellows NewsPA

GE

>> 1

8

WHAT’S HAPPENING IN YOUR

LIFE?

PLEASE SEND ANNOUNCEMENTS OR NEWS TO:

mritchie@agleaders.org

AG LEADERSHIP >> Thank You

PAG

E >>

19

Donor Support

OUR MAJOR CONTRIBUTORS Since July 1, 2011

March 1, 2012 – June 30, 2012: thank you

$25,000Boswell Family Foundation

$20,000-$24,999Azzule SystemsAnonymous

$15,000Harden FoundationWells Fargo Bank

$10,000Wegis & Young Property Management (Mike Young, Rick Wegis, Greg Wegis)

$5,000Person & Son Cattle Co.

$4,000California Ag Summit

$2,500Class 41Outreach & Image Enhancement Rolling Ridge Ranch

$1,000Jeffrey ElderTim Sugishita

$500Gus and Barbara CollinLaura Giudici-MillsSpeedling, Inc.

$400-$499Mary-Ann Warmerdam

$300-$399Tom MulhollandPierre TadaVarious Cash from All Class Reunion

$200-$299Karen CaplanFidela IrigoyenPrimus LabsBob and Susan LilleyJeff Stephens

$100-$199Gary CavalritoWoody and Jane BarnesTed and Josie DennisNat and Marilyn DiBuduoJerry DiefenderferLon FletcherRobin FlournoyAdin and Dora HesterPetrea MarchandBeth PandolOcean Mist FarmsGene and April RappVassar RanchJim Wegis

Up to $100Pati BoutonnetGerald and Sally CzarneckiDempel Farming Co.Sue DiTomasoMike and Jeanette FitchDon and Doris LahrWilliam and Ruth PataAllen and Anna Sorenson

Special Thanks to

Founders’ Leadership Circle $1,000,000 and aboveJ.G. Boswell II FoundationOtis Booth Foundation

Legacy Leadership Circle $500,000 and aboveBoswell Family Foundation

Pioneer Leadership Circle $250,000 and aboveSusan Dulin (in memory of J.G. Boswell II)

Chairman’s Leadership Circle $100,000 and above

Alumni Leadership Circle $50,000 and aboveJ.F. Maddox Foundation (in memory of J.G. Boswell II)

President’s Leadership Circle $25,000 and aboveBank of America Merrill LynchThe Borba FamiliesTaylor Farms CaliforniaTMD CreativeWells Fargo FoundationWestern Growers Association

The 1970 Leadership Circle $10,000 and aboveAzzule SystemsBooth RanchesMark and Sharon BorbaCapital Insurance GroupC.H. Robinson WorldwideFarm Credit Alliance: American AgCredit, Farm Credit West, CoBankHarden FoundationInternational Paper CompanyKevin Grizzle Farms, LLCLagomarsino GroupRick Vorpe and Evelyn MatteucciGeorge and Kathleen MyersOlive Hill, LLCThe Johannessen TrustRabobank, N.A.Syngenta CorporationWegis and YoungWells Fargo Bank

Fellows Leadership Circle $5,000 and aboveBank of the WestBowles Farming CompanyClass 39Monsanto CompanyPerson & Son Cattle Co.Reiter Affiliated CompaniesSaticoy Lemon AssociationUnion Bank of California FoundationTim York

Fundraising and Special EventsWorld Ag Expo Ag Leadership Alumni BreakfastDean Brown Golf TournamentRegion 9 Golf TournamentRegion 6 Golf TournamentColusa Farm Show BreakfastCommon Threads, Fresno

P.O. BOX 479SALINAS, CA 93902Return Service Requested

This edition of Horizonsis brought to you in part by a

generous grant from Rabobank.NON PROFIT ORG.

U.S. POSTAGE PAID

Salinas, CAPermit No.61

HORIZONS MAGAZINE is published quarterly by the California Agricultural Leadership Foundation for alumni, donors, supporters and friends. Phone: 831-585-1030 www.agleaders.org

Thursday, October 18, 2012California State University, Fresno

R e c e p t i o n / D i n n e r / I n a u g u r a t i o n

Join us for this special event!

Invitations will be sent in September

Class 43 Inauguration