Twenty-four people will be inaugurated into Class 47 of the California Agricultural Leadership Program (CALP) on Oct. 6 at the Clovis Veterans Memorial District.

CALP is an advanced leadership development experience for emerging agricultural leaders.

Class 47 members include Kevin Antongiovanni, Tom Barrios, Jared Britschgi, Casey Creamer, Chris Drew, Ted Grether, Randi Gwilliam, John Hay, Hans Herkert, Stuart Hoetger, Nadav Ichaki, Tucker Knutz, Brad Koehn, Jenny Lester Moffitt, Hunter Lindemann, John McKeon, Jason Miller, Darrin Monteiro, Matt Patton, Brad Reinhart, Jill Scofield, Matt Stornetta, Doug Thomas, and Kiran Toor.

During the 17-month CALP program, the participants - called ‘fellows’ - study leadership theory, effective communication, motivation, critical and strategic thinking, change management, emotional intelligence, plus complex social and cultural issues.

Seminars are led by specialists from Cal Poly Pomona, Cal Poly San Luis Obispo, Fresno State, and UC Davis.

Fellows participate in 55 seminar days, including an eight-day national travel seminar and a 15-day international travel seminar.

“We are extremely fortunate and grateful to have such knowledgeable Ag Leadership alumni participate in this selection process,” said Barry Bedwell, president of the California Agricultural Leadership Foundation (CALF).

“By all indications and thanks to those efforts, Class 47 represents another outstanding example of individuals eager to further their leadership development so they can make a positive difference for California agriculture.”

Bedwell says CALF invests about $55,000 per fellow to participate in the program, which is underwritten by individual and industry donations.

CALP is considered one of the premier leadership programs in the U.S. Since it began in 1970, more than 1,200 men and women have participated and become influential leaders and active volunteers in the agricultural industry and other areas.

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