MONTEREY, CA - New Board Members are coming in hot at the California Agricultural Leadership Foundation (CALF). The organization has named Nikki Cossio and Sal Parra Jr. to join its central leadership team.

“For years, I have admired the California Agricultural Leadership Foundation,” said Cossio, Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Measure to Improve. “Serving on the board allows me to directly participate in shaping the future of California agriculture. We can empower the next generation of farmers to thrive and ensure a vibrant agricultural legacy for our state.”

Part of a multigenerational California farming family, Cossio has served on boards and committees for organizations such as International Fresh Produce Association, Specialty Crops Coordinating Council, the former Produce Marketing Association, and United Fresh Center for Global Produce Sustainability. Cossio also founded the Monterey County Sustainability Working Group, a press release noted.

“I am truly honored to be selected and serve on the foundation board,” said Parra Jr., Director of Farming for Burford Ranch. “The program and this foundation have impacted my life in profound ways, and I look to paying that forward with my service.”

Parra Jr. is also an Owner and Partner of Coyula Farms. He serves on boards for the Fresno County Farm Bureau and James Groundwater Sustainability Agency and is a member of Class VII of the Western Growers Future Volunteer Leaders Program.

The press release went on to note that Parra Jr. earned his bachelor’s degree in agricultural business in 2008 and MBA in 2015, both from Fresno State. He is also a member of Class 46 of the California Agricultural Leadership Program and previously served as a CALF Education Team liaison on the Ag Leadership Alumni Council.

“I am excited and honored that Nikki and Sal have graciously accepted our invitation to join the Board of Directors,” CALF Board Chair Mike Young said. “Their rich background in production agriculture, coupled with their thought leadership and industry influence, will make them invaluable in supporting our vision of leaders united to strengthen California agriculture and sustainably supply the world.”

Cheers to these industry leaders!