Chairwoman to lead California Avocado Commission board for the first time in its history

The California Avocado Commission (CAC) elected new executive officers. The new class of executives includes Rachael Laenen, who will assume the role of Board Chair. She's CAC's first Chairwoman in the organization's history. 

“Being the first female chair of the CAC Board of Directors is not what matters to me,” said Laenen. “Doing an excellent job representing California avocado growers and the premium avocados we produce is paramount."

The new head of the CAC Board added that she's proud of the contributions that the state's female growers have made and continue to make in the industry.

Laenen has served on the CAC Board since November 2020, with three years of experience as an executive officer. She's the sixth generation of her family to farm in Ventura County and the fourth generation to grow avocados. She now manages the family’s avocado enterprise. 

Also elected to the Commission Board executive committee were Vice Chair Ohannes Karaoghlanian, Secretary John Berns, and Treasurer Maureen Cottingham. Board members serve two-year terms, and the executive officers are elected annually.

CAC celebrates women in agriculture 

This California avocado season, the California Avocado Commission will support the CA Grown program and its initiative promoting the role of women in agriculture.

The United Nations declared 2026 the International Year of the Woman Farmer, a historic milestone recognizing women’s vital role in agriculture worldwide. Supported by 123 countries and led by the United States, the resolution represents a global pledge to promote equity, visibility, and opportunity.

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California is home to one of the most diverse and productive agricultural economies in the world and has experienced steady growth in the number of women farmers—up 13 percent in the last decade—a sign that more women are stepping into roles of ownership and influence.

With 63 percent of California farms operated by women, women often lead in soil health, water conservation, and long-term orchard management. 

“The Commission has supported the CA Grown program for many years because being locally grown and grown in California is a strong purchase driver for California avocado customers and consumers,” said Terry Splane, CAC vice president of marketing. 

The International Year of the Woman Farmer highlights that agriculture encompasses more than mere production and centers on individuals who nourish and support their communities.

CAC’s support of this CA Grown initiative will include PR and social media content promoting the impact of California’s female avocado farmers.

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