ANNUAL GROWERS MEETING
Grower Engagement Panel Annual Meeting 2022
L to R: Ben Goudie, Steve Van Duyn, Dan Clendenin, John Monroe, Kelli Evans, and Kent Stenderup
The Annual Meeting grower engagement panel was moderated by Ben Goudie, Membership Director for the Northern Region to discuss the opportunities for members to involve themselves as advocates for the co-op. The panel consisted of board members, John Monroe (District 2), Dale Van Groningen (District 3), Steve Van Duyn (District 5), and Kent Stenderup (District 5) as well as Members Kelli Evans (District 2), and Dan Clendenin (District 7). The panel discussed involvement in the Blue Diamond Leadership Program. Formerly named the “Young Leadership Program,” the re-branded “Leadership Program” encourages members of all ages and experience levels to participate since it serves as a developer of co-op leaders. In fact, four current members of the board of directors are graduates of the Program. Grower Liaison Committees (GLC) and the Advisory Committee were next on the docket. Dan Clendenin stated he has served several times on both committees and that he enjoys the committee-driven conversations with Blue Diamond executives and operational leaders. Monroe and Van Duyn shared their experiences as members of the Blue Diamond board of directors. Monroe provided
key considerations one must take prior to running. Board members spend at least 30 days a year engaged in board business. Van Duyn shared that this is in addition to the extensive pre-reading and studying of necessary materials. Stenderup and Evans gave insight into Blue Diamond ’s interaction with the Almond Board of California and how to get involved on an Almond Board committee. Stenderup, who is a past chairman of the Almond Board, said that there is always a way to serve as an Almond Board committee member no matter your background. Evans highlighted her path, as she was recently elected as an Almond Board Alternate. Support for the Almond Alliance is critical since it conducts industry level advocacy on both the state and federal levels. Blue Diamond also supports PAC by offering in-orchard legislator tours, something Clendenin has hosted many times. He expressed the cruciality of PAC’s orchard visits so they may witness the challenges almond farmers face. Remember, no matter your experience or interest level, you can and should get involved with Blue Diamond . Member engagement is a key factor in Blue Diamond ’s success.
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ALMOND FACTS
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