Introducing BOLD Class 2
BOLD Class 2 members attending UC Davis Classes June, 2022
The avocado industry’s Board Leadership Development Program (BOLD) seated it’s second class on March 28, 2022. These future avocado industry leaders applied for the year-long program, to immerse themselves in learning about the industry, the boards that serve it, and to gain the knowledge that will prepare themselves for future board participation.
The Hass avocado board (HAB) developed this program in 2020, as a way to find next generation industry leaders, as the industry faces an increasingly complex marketplace, and needs increasingly sophisticated problem solvers.
BOLD was designed to develop emerging leaders who are both motivated and equipped to meet the avocado industry’s extraordinary opportunities, and extraordinary challenges. BOLD will increase participant’s understanding of board member responsibilities, avocado research & marketing functions, finance and fiduciary responsibilities, board structure and membership, governance, and much more.
The members of this year’s BOLD Class 2 are:
Casey Beltran – Producer/Importer
Maureen Cottingham – Producer
Caitlin Cunha – Producer/Importer
Hillary DeCarl – Producer/Importer
Elizabeth Flores – Producer/Importer
Gwen Jackimek – Importer
Osvaldo Magaña – Producer
Carlos Valerio Medel – Producer
Jeff Onstot – Producer/Importer
Jose Pardo – Producer/Importer
John Patrick – Producer/Importer
LeighAnne Thomsen – Importer
BOLD develops knowledgeable, skilled, confident, and board-ready candidates for the Hass Avocado Board, California Avocado Commission, and importer associations for the industry. This year’s class in comprised of avocado producers and marketers, interested in the continued growth of the industry, and the creation of long-term value for the industry through volunteerism, and potential future board participation.
All Class 2 participants have been assigned a yearlong mentor relationship with a current or former industry board member, to lean on with questions, insights, and understanding of Board dynamics, and responsibilities.
BOLD brings out the best in all of us and builds a stronger future for this industry we all love and want to see continue to prosper and grow.
Other Happenings
Have you Registered To Vote For The Hass Avocado Board 2025 Nominees?
Are you registered to vote for the 2025 Hass Avocado Board nominees? Time is running out! Eligible U.S. producers and importers have until Monday, April 21, 2025, to claim their vote—and their voice—in shaping the future of the avocado industry. This is your chance to support HAB’s mission of advancing avocado nutrition, sustainability, and success across the U.S. market. Don’t miss the opportunity to lead the change.
Expanding Our Reach: Influencer Partnerships Help Communicate the Versatility and Health Benefits of Avocados
Find out how we are enhancing our outreach by partnering with food and nutrition influencers to amplify our messages and connect with broader audiences in meaningful ways.
Advancing Avocado Science: New Research Highlights Gut Health Benefits
The Avocado Nutrition Center advances science by supporting research, including a study linking daily avocado intake to changes in the gut microbiome.
