After more than 16 years on the California State Board of Food and Agriculture, with the last seven years as Board President, Craig McNamara is stepping down from his position on the Board to participate as a 2018 Fellow in the Stanford Distinguished Careers Institute program.

The fellowship program offers an extraordinary opportunity for individuals to advance social impact at the local, national and global levels.

“Craig has been a visionary leader for the State Board and has been an unwavering advocate for California’s farmers and ranchers to both me and the Governor,” said CDFA Secretary Karen Ross. “I’m happy for Craig in his new pursuit, but will deeply miss his counsel and thoughtfulness on the issues impacting the agricultural community.”

Under McNamara’s leadership the board further advanced the California Ag Vision, helped to double farm contributions to food banks, addressed agricultural immigration issues, and was a critical voice for agriculture in a variety of water discussions related to drought and sustainable groundwater management.

As McNamara departs the State Board he leaves behind a legacy of dedication to California’s farmers and ranchers and a reinvigorated board mission of engagement and representation of the diversity of California’s agricultural sector to the governor and CDFA secretary.

The California State Board of Food and Agriculture advises the governor and the CDFA secretary on agricultural issues and consumer needs.

The state board conducts forums that bring together local, state and federal government officials, agricultural representatives and citizens to discuss current issues of concern to California agriculture.

Jay Van Rein works for the CDFA Office of Public Affairs.