HIGHLIGHTS FROM THE THIRD ANNUAL WESTERN GROWERS WOMEN LEADERSHIP RETREAT By Cierra Allen, Program Manager
with our alumni and hear the great conversations that come along with it. While a group of 35 may seem large, the shared industry background fosters an environment where genuine and meaningful conversations are able to develop. Each year, I strive to create an agenda that balances leadership development, personal reflection, teamwork and a little bit of fun. A standout moment of this year’s retreat was our Welcome Dinner, which featured California Secretary of Agriculture Karen Ross. Secretary Ross shared her personal journey from growing up in Nebraska to becoming one of the most influential women in agriculture. She offered an honest and motivating perspective about never imagining she would end up in the agriculture industry and how unpredictable one’s career path can be. Her story resonated with the attendees as many are navigating their own leadership journeys.
The Western Growers Women (WGW) Program marked its third annual Leadership Retreat in Rancho Mirage, Calif., bringing together 35 women for an experience centered around growth, connection and leadership. Despite an unusual heat wave and soaring desert temperatures, attendees fully embraced the opportunity to step away from their daily responsibilities and focus on personal and professional growth. As in previous years, the retreat created a unique space to connect with other women in the agriculture industry. More than half of the women were first-time participants at an in-person WGW event. While I personally love to see returning women as many have become great friends, it is equally exciting to welcome new faces. One aspect that makes each WGW event special is the presence of program graduates who choose to return year after year because of the value they have found in it. It is always inspiring to see the newcomers interact
Attendees enjoyed a farm tour of Hadley Date Gardens led by owner and Western Growers Board Director, Albert Keck and his son, Paul.
20 Western Grower & Shipper | www.wga.com April – June 2026
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