Another way we nurture the next generation of ag leaders is by providing college scholarships to local high school students through the Blue Diamond Growers Foundation. Since 2011, the Foundation has awarded nearly 200 scholarships to help students in local communities achieve their dreams of a college education. I’d like to recognize John Monroe’s dedication and passion as president of our Foundation. When planning your end of year philanthropic donations, please consider supporting our Foundation. Blue Diamond Growers has a long-standing partnership with Future Farmers of America, or FFA, to help promote education and excellence in agriculture. I’m proud that once again this year we were able to match donations to FFA on Giving Tuesday up to $25,000. With our support, this year the FFA was able to raise $57,630, providing 678 California FFA members with their own iconic blue jackets. Each year I have the privilege of recognizing one Blue Diamond grower for exceptional industry leadership and for going above and beyond to positively represent our Blue Diamond Growers cooperative. This year’s recipient of the Chairman’s Ambassador of the Year award is Kelli Evans. A third generation California farmer, Kelli has dedicated herself to advocating for
California agriculture and giving a powerful voice to almond growers throughout the industry and in government circles. In June, Kelli was selected to serve on the Almond Board of California. She also was recently named the Almond Alliance of California’s Member of the Year and chairs the newly formed Almond Alliance Grower Committee. Kelli also uses her leadership and influence to uniquely tell Blue Diamond ’s story and provide a personal connection with our growers, as one of our most active Blue Diamond Social Media Ambassadors. Congratulations, Kelli, and thank you for your contributions to Blue Diamond . In closing, I want to personally thank those of you who I have partnered with over my last 17 years on the Board. It has truly been an honor.
Dan Cummings Chairman of the Board
13
NOVEMBER–DECEMBER 2023
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