A Strong Community Driving Ag Leadership Forward

As we move into the summer, I continue to be energized by the momentum happening across the Ag Leadership community. Over the last several months, we have seen incredible engagement from alumni, partners, volunteers, and applicants who all believe deeply in the importance of developing strong leaders for California agriculture. 

One of the most exciting areas of momentum has been the strong interest in Class 56. It is always encouraging to see talented individuals from across the state step forward, ready to invest in their leadership journey and become part of Ag Leadership. 

That momentum would not be possible without the incredible work of our CALF staff, alumni leaders, and stakeholders. Every day, people across this community are giving their time, talent, and treasure to strengthen our mission and move Ag Leadership forward. 

We are also continuing to make meaningful progress on our strategic planning work. Thanks to the leadership of the SEED Team and the many alumni and stakeholders who participated in listening sessions, the future vision for CALF is beginning to take shape in exciting ways. The conversations have reinforced both the deep pride people have in this foundation and the tremendous opportunity ahead of us. 

Thank you for your continued support and belief in Ag Leadership. I truly believe the best chapters are still ahead. 

With gratitude,

Lesa Eidman (49)

President & CEO

Class 55 Blog

Follow along with Class 55 as they continue their Ag Leadership journey through seminars, conversations, and experiences across California and beyond. Through the blog, fellows share reflections, insights, and behind-the-scenes moments from this transformational leadership experience. Stay connected as Class 55 continues to grow, challenge perspectives, and strengthen their impact in California agriculture.

Gratitude for Service to CALF

After many years of dedicated service to the California Agricultural Leadership Program, Dr. Athanasios “Alex” Alexandrou is stepping down from his role as Core Faculty representing Fresno State. Beginning with Class 47, Alex worked alongside Dr. Thomas to help guide fellows through their leadership journey, bringing thoughtful insight, meaningful discussion, and a deep commitment to both the program and the fellows. His partnership with Fresno State and his contributions to Ag Leadership are truly appreciated. We are deeply grateful for Alex’s service, friendship, and dedication.

DC Exchange

This year, the DC Exchange Cohort, composed of 11 fellows, will visit Regions 1 and 2 from September 16 through September 23. If you live or work in these areas and are open to hosting the group at your farm/business or providing a homestay for a fellow, please reach out to Anna Nicholson.

Class 56 Screening

Alumni: If you're interested in supporting the screening process, please reach out to Judy Sparacino. Our greatest need is for assistance with the second phase of application screening, which takes place online in May. This is meaningful work that can be done remotely.

We're also continuing to strengthen our in-person screening committees. This role involves a full-day, in-person commitment, a virtual training session and significant preparation in advance.

Class 56 Phase 2 Applications Due: May 22, 2026

If you know someone who has an application in progress, please remind them about the phase two application deadline.

CALF Website RFP

CALF is seeking proposals for a website redesign and digital storytelling project. We would welcome recommendations of firms or individuals who align with our mission and values.

Alumni Awards

Help us shine a spotlight on those who inspire action and create lasting impact by nominating a fellow alum for one of our 2026 Alumni Awards.

Submit a nomination for the Profiles in Leadership Award or the Lifetime Leadership Award by Friday, June 26. All award recipients will be honored during a ceremony on Oct. 2 in conjunction with the Class 56 inauguration.

CALF Blog- The Rooms Where No One is Keeping Score

The most important leadership work often happens in rooms where no one is keeping score. In his new blog, Dr. Dane White reflects on how real leadership is built. Not in boardrooms or behind podiums, but on school boards, local committees, and the volunteer tables of our communities.

For those in agriculture, these are the rooms that shape trust, build coalitions, and ultimately strengthen the places we call home.

A thoughtful read on service, presence, and why showing up still matters.

CALF Social & Talley BBQ

Ag Leadership alumni gathered with Class 55 at Talley Vineyards on the San Luis Obispo Coast for an evening of connection, wine, and BBQ. The setting offered a fitting and beautiful backdrop for bringing alumni and the current class together! Thank you to Brian, Elizabeth, and Rosemary Talley for their continued hospitality, and to the alumni BBQ team for preparing a memorable meal that made the evening feel particularly special.

Cultivating the Future

Ag Leadership alumni came together in the Imperial Valley for the 4th annual Cultivating the Future Dinner. We were joined by CDFA Secretary Karen Ross, who shared remarks during the evening. The event raised over $20,000 in support of the Foundation, reflecting the strong commitment of the alumni network. Many thanks to Jack Vessey and Vessey & Company for hosting, and to Region 11 alumni whose time and effort helped make the evening a success!

We have several Ag Leadership Alumni speaking at this years Agri-Pulse Food & Ag Issues Summit on June 2 –

Shannon Douglass (46), California Farm Bureau; Ian LeMay (48), California Table Grape Commission; Emily Rooney (39), Agricultural Council of California; Blake Alexandre (22), Alexandre Family Farm; Sara Neagu-Reed (49), IFPA; Kelly Damewood (55), CCOF, Inc. Check it out here

Emily Rooney (39), President of Agricultural Council of California, offers her thoughts on challenges shaping the industry in a conversation with Nick Papagni on The Ag Meter. Read More Here 

Ian LeMay (48), President and CEO of the California Table Grape Comission, spoke with Nick Papagni on The Ag Meter about the California Table Grapes 2026 season. Read and listen here

Paul Wenger (17) was interviewed about maintaining quality walnuts by Patrick Cavanaugh with the Ag Information Network. Listen here

Darren Schmall (25) was featured on the AgNet News Hour discussing his work in agrotourism, innovation, and sustainability. Read and listen here

Sara Neagu-Reed (49), Director of Production and Environmental Policy at IFPA, was named one of “Washington DC’s 500 Most Influential People of 2026”. Read about it here

Megan Bell (54) joins The California Association of Winegrape Growers its Public Affairs and External Communications Manager. Read more here

Ned Coe (17) writes about his work with the Western Interstate Region (WIR). Read more here   

Interested in spotlighting an Ag Leadership alum in your community? Contact Anna Nicholson, Alumni Engagement and Events Manager

Development Manager

We are excited to share that CALF is currently seeking a Development Manager to help strengthen the future of Ag Leadership. If you know someone with development and fundraising experience who is passionate about California agriculture, leadership, and relationship-building, we encourage you to share this opportunity and review the full job description here.

Looking to feature an open position? Contact Anna Nicholson, Alumni Engagement and Events Manager

First Friday: The power of habits with Dr. Nessie Early

June 5 / 12:00 - 1:00pm

Jun 25 - Region 1 Reconnect Farm Tour, Social, and Dinner 

June 25 / 5:00 - 8:30pm

Social at the Salinas Rodeo  

July 16 / 5:30 - 7:30pm

Social at the Stanislaus County Fair 

July 16 / 5:30 - 10:00pm