The California Fresh Fruit Association (CFFA) has announced its current president Barry Bedwell will soon step down and be replaced by former eight-term U.S. Congressman George Radanovich.

Barry Bedwell

Bedwell has been president of CFFA since 2003 and is transitioning from the organization to serve as president of the California Agricultural Leadership Foundation (CALF).

CALF is a non-profit corporation committed to leadership training and transformational learning experiences in partnership with four California universities.

The foundation supports the longest continuously operating leadership training experience of its kind in the U.S. - the California Agricultural Leadership Program.

Radanovich, a graduate of Class 21 of the California Agricultural Leadership Program, served in Congress from 1995 to 2011 representing California's 19th district.

While in the House of Representatives, he served as Water Caucus co-chair, Wine Caucus co-chair and as co-chair for the Congressional Croatian Caucus as well as being considered an agricultural expert in areas related to water supply and immigration reform.

He is a native Californian, born and raised in Mariposa, and was educated at California Polytechnic University, San Luis Obispo. Radanovich is also a farmer who began growing premium wine grapes in Mariposa County in 1982, after observing a micro climate in the area suitable for their growth.

"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," CFFA chairman of the board Harold McClarty said.

George Radanovich

"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."

Bedwell said that working for CFFA members had been the most rewarding and, considering the numerous issues facing growers and shippers, challenging of his career.

"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," he said.

Meanwhile, incoming president Radanovich said that during his time in and out of office he had the benefit of knowing Bedwell and the CFFA's work 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," he said.

"I am truly excited about the prospects as well as challenges that lie ahead."

The effective date for the transition is currently scheduled for August 1.

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