California Fresh Fruit Association Announces President Barry Bedwell's Departure, Hires George Radanovich
FRESNO, CA – Following its recent Board of Directors meeting in Sacramento, the California Fresh Fruit Association (CFFA) has announced a big shift in the organization’s leadership. Current President, Barry Bedwell, will be stepping down from his position, with former U.S. Congressman George Radanovich hired as the incoming President.
"Working for the members of the California Fresh Fruit Association, as well as all of California agriculture, has been the most rewarding and, considering the multitude of issues facing growers and shippers, challenging experience of my career,” stated, Barry Bedwell. “Leaving CFFA is extremely difficult but I feel I can now take what I have learned to further enhance a premier leadership development program that I believe will be imperative to the successful future of California agriculture."
Barry will be transitioning from CFFA, where he has been President since 2003, to serve as the President of the California Agricultural Leadership Foundation (CALF), a non-profit corporation committed to leadership training and influential learning experiences.
CALF supports the longest continuously-operating leadership training experience of its kind in the country through the California Agricultural Leadership Program, according to a press release. CALF’s Leadership Program works with the following universities to provide its opportunities:
- Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo
- Cal Poly, Pomona
- California State University, Fresno
- University of California, Davis
"While we hate to see Barry go, we are certainly understanding of his passion and motivation to train effective agricultural leaders and we are truly appreciative of his leadership for these past thirteen years,” stated, Harold McClarty of HMC Farms in Kingsburg.
George Radanovich, is a former eight-term U.S. Congressman, for California’s 19th district from 1995 to 2011. George also has a wide berth of industry and agricultural expertise, both politically and professionally.
"During my time in and out of office, I have had the benefit of knowing Barry and the work of CFFA for many years. I look forward to this opportunity to become reengaged with agriculture in the representation of our members and the chance to work in conjunction with other public policy organizations and their leadership for the benefit of production agriculture in California. I am truly excited about the prospects as well as challenges that lie ahead," said George.
George graduated from the California Agricultural Leadership Program himself in Class 21. During his time in the House of Representatives, George served as Water Caucus co-chair, Wine Caucus co-chair, and co-chair for the Congressional Croation Caucus. George was also considered an agricultural expert in areas related to water supply and immigration reform.
George was born and raised in Mariposa, California, and attended California Polytechnic University, San Luis Obispo. George began his industry career as a premium wine grape grower in Mariposa County in 1982, after observing a micro climate in the area suitable for the commodity’s growth. George also served as a member of the Mariposa County Board of Supervisors from 1988 to 1992, and served as chairman in 1991.
“In addition, we are very pleased and feel fortunate that George has agreed to become part of the team at CFFA. George's background both as a farmer and Congressman should insure real leadership value for the membership as well as his timely appointment as president should mean a seamless and effectual transition," finished Harold.
The transition for the Presidential appointment of CFFA is currently scheduled for August 1 of this year.
Best of luck to Barry in his new endeavors, and congratulations to George in his new appointment, from everyone here at AndNowUKnow! We can’t wait to see where the both of you lead the industry next.
