Just Keep Growing

Even though, as a leap year, 2020 gave February an extra day, this month passed in the blink of an eye. But fast does not mean uneventful. February saw the official kickoff of the growing season with budbreak in many vineyards around the country, even as their growers gathered in industry conferences to learn, network and grow themselves. And it was the start of a new season for NGRA, too, with new leaders taking the helm.

At our Annual Meeting of the Members and First-of-Year Board Meeting on February 3, NGRA members elected (or re-elected) officers and Board directors. The leaders now serving in officer roles are shown above and their bios are here:

  • Chairman: Russell (Russ) Smithyman, Ste. Michelle Wine Estates, Washington, succeeding Tony Stephen, American Vineyard Foundation
  • Vice Chair: Allison Jordan, Wine Institute, California, succeeding Tom Smith, E. & J. Gallo Winery
  • Secretary/Treasurer: Dan Martinez, Martinez Orchards, California, re-elected
  • Past Chair: Tony Stephen, American Vineyard Foundation, California, succeeding John Aguirre, California Association of Winegrape Growers

About a third of NGRA’s Board of Directors, comprised of 28 Commodity Sector, Regional and At-Large Representatives from across the U.S., is elected each year, as well. At our February 3 meeting, eight directors were either newly or re-elected. Congrats to our just-elected officers and directors, and thanks to our entire Board! We couldn’t fulfill our research mission without your strong support!

As 2020 progresses, we have a whole growing season ahead of us–in the field, in our roles and in the delivery on our goals. It’s been a fast start for us, but rich with opportunities to learn and lead. Let’s keep growing!