Building on a Strong Foundation

By Lesa Eidman (49)

I’m thrilled to step into the role of president and CEO of the California Agricultural Leadership Foundation (CALF). As an alum of Class 49, I know firsthand the incredible impact this program has on shaping strong, forward-thinking leaders in agriculture. Now, I have the honor of leading the foundation that played such a pivotal role in my own leadership journey.

In just my first three weeks, I’ve had the opportunity to hit the road and connect with many of our incredible alumni and partners. From conversations about the challenges and opportunities in agriculture to hearing how CALF has shaped so many lives, I’m more energized than ever about the future of this program. I’m excited to continue building on the relationships I’ve already started and to meet even more of you in the months ahead.

I’m also incredibly grateful for the time I was able to spend with Dwight before his departure. Dwight, thank you for your knowledge, passion and leadership. You’ve left the foundation in a strong position, and I look forward to building upon the success you’ve helped create.

Looking ahead, my focus is on strengthening our program, expanding our reach and ensuring CALF continues to empower bold, visionary leaders. I can’t wait for what’s ahead and am so grateful to be on this journey with all of you!

Gratitude for Service to CALF

Thank you to Dwight Ferguson for his service and contributions to Ag Leadership as the foundation’s president and CEO since October 2020. Dwight announced last fall that he would be leaving the role upon completion of a successful search for his successor. He has been committed to ensuring a seamless transition period with Lesa. Friday, March 7 was his final day in the office.

“Dwight has been instrumental in professionalizing our organization, leading our last strategic plan and positioning the foundation for long-term success and sustainability,” said CALF Board Chair Mike Young (35). “His leadership has set the stage for an exciting future, and we are deeply grateful for his dedication and service. On a personal note, Dwight has become a close friend and mentor, and I am truly sad to see him go.”

We share our gratitude for Dwight's impact on the foundation and his dedication to growing leaders who make a difference. Dwight, we thank you for your leadership and wish you the very best in your future endeavors!

End of Fiscal Year is Fast Approaching

It's hard to believe, but there are only three months left in our fiscal year, which means there's still time to contribute to the 2024-25 Class Challenge (but not much!)

Remember, it’s not about how much is raised, but how many in each class participate. Every gift counts: financial, time volunteered or in-kind.

Thank you to all who have supported in 2024-25 thus far!

To see where your class ranks, please contact your class liaison or email Jodi Litz at jlitz@agleaders.org.

Class 54 National Seminar Blog

Class 54 fellows recently returned from their national seminar to Minneapolis and Washington, D.C. If you haven’t already done so, read all about their travels, lessons learned and reflections on their daily blog.

Class 55 Phase One Applications Due April 1

Applications for those interested in being part of Class 55 of the California Agricultural Leadership Program are now available on the CALF website.

Applicants should be mid-career growers, farmers, ranchers, horticulturalists, foresters and/or individuals working in other areas of California’s diverse agriculture industry who are emerging leaders with a passion for California agriculture. They should also demonstrate a high propensity to lead and exemplify CALF's values of integrity, excellence and respect. Alumni may find informational resources here to assist in acting as ambassadors to potential candidates. Alumni interested in assisting in informational events or prospective applicants should contact their regional directors or Judy Sparacino (HF).

D.C. Exchange Update

The D.C. Exchange application period has been extended to May 1, 2025. If you know of an eligible applicant, please provide them with the link to the application.

2025 CALF Awards: Nominations Due June 27

Would you like to nominate a classmate or an alum in your region or industry circles for one of our CALF awards? Please submit your completed nomination form by Friday, June 27. All award recipients will be honored during a ceremony on Oct. 3 (in conjunction with the Class 55 inauguration)

LIFETIME LEADERSHIP AWARD

Recognizes Ag Leadership alumni who have demonstrated leadership throughout their lifetime, thereby making a significant difference in California agriculture, their industry and community. The focus is on alumni in Classes 1-15, but the award is open to alumni from all classes.

>List of past recipients

PROFILES IN LEADERSHIP AWARD

Recognizes Ag Leadership alumni for their leadership actions resulting in the betterment of industry, community, business, government, education and/or the environment.

>List of past recipients

NOMINATION FORMS

Click the button to find links to both forms.

Class Liaisons Needed

We are still in need of liaisons to represent classes 1, 4, 5, 6, 11, 15, 17, 20, 23 and 39. Join us in being a part of the grassroots effort to strengthen our alumni community! Contact Raven Mariani at rmariani@agleaders.org for more information.

Upcoming Prospective Applicant & Alumni Gatherings

Join us to socialize, network and share about the program. We invite you to bring a guest who would like to learn more about Ag Leadership.



Region 9 / Camarillo

March 19 / 5:30 - 7:30 p.m.

>More information

Region 5 / Salinas

March 20 / 5 - 7 p.m.

>More information

Region 10 / Fallbrook

March 22 / 12:30 - 3 p.m.

>More information

Regions 6 & 8 / Kingsburg

March 27 / 5:30 - 7:30 p.m.

>More information

Region 7 / Templeton

April 5 / 2 - 5 p.m.

>More information

Region 4 Memorial Luncheon

Join us for the inaugural Ag Leadership Region 4 Memorial Luncheon in honor of esteemed alum John Franzia (10). This special celebration of life and legacy promises to be an afternoon of meaningful connection, shared purpose and lasting impact. Region 4 alumni who passed in 2024 will also be recognized. Family, friends, colleagues and prospective applicants to the Ag Leadership Program are welcome.

APRIL 3 / 11 a.m. - 2 p.m. / Escalon

TICKETS

Special luncheon featuring Clark Ferrea wines. All proceeds benefit CALF.

• Single: $85
• Table of eight: $650

Cultivating the Future

Region 11 alumni are hosting their third annual fundraiser to support CALF and the development of future leaders from the desert region in California agriculture. New location and fun/casual event! Delicious dinner, salsa contest (bring your secret recipe to share) and live mariachi band!

MAY 1 / 5:30 p.m. - 10 p.m. / Holtville

GUEST SPEAKER

Assemblymember Jeff Gonzalez (R-Indio)

TICKETS

$125 / person

Celebrate Common Threads Honorees

COMMON THREADS CENTRAL VALLEY

March 19 / 11 a.m. - 1:30 p.m. / Fresno

TICKETS: Contact Mia Mirassou at 831-585-1030.

COMMON THREADS NORTH

April 2 / 5 - 8:30 p.m. / Davis

TICKETS: $85/person >Purchase

International Travel Opportunity

Ag Leadership alumni and community members:

Scott Allen, CALF's trusted travel agent, is offering a unique opportunity to curate your own international leadership experience. Drawing inspiration from recent Ag Leadership class travels, Scott will craft personalized journeys that blend impactful leadership education, awe-inspiring destinations and cultural immersion. You choose your ideal trip duration, preferred budget and the leadership teachings that resonate with you. Bring family and friends! To preserve the uniqueness of current programs, Scott's itineraries will be based on trips from two or more years ago. Contact Scott Allen.