Cultivating Change Foundation Welcomes Four New Board Members to Advance Belonging in Agriculture
February 6, 2025
Palm Springs, CA – The Cultivating Change Foundation is proud to announce the appointment of four experienced leaders to its Board of Directors, bringing a wealth of expertise in food, agriculture, and rural America. The addition of John Curato, SFPM, Head of Asset Management; Jon Doggett, Principal, Camas Consulting; Rod Snyder, Principal & Founder, Junction Strategies, LLC, and Former Senior Advisor for Agriculture to the EPA Administrator; and Traci Via, Vice President of Development and Alumni at Agriculture Future of America marks a significant step forward in the Foundation’s commitment to fostering an inclusive and equitable food and agriculture sector for LGBTQ+ people and allies.
As the Foundation continues to implement its strategic plan, these new board members will play a crucial role in advancing three core strategic pillars: workforce development, personal growth, and enhanced visibility. Their collective expertise will enhance efforts to cultivate leadership, expand industry partnerships, and drive meaningful change across the farming, food, fiber, and fisheries sectors.
“This is a pivotal moment for the Cultivating Change Foundation,” said Lydia Noyes, Board Chair. “Each of these new board members brings unique experience and a deep commitment to belonging in food and agriculture and across rural America. Their leadership will help us grow our reach, expand our impact, and ensure that LGBTQ+ people in our sector feel valued and empowered. Together, we are building a future where diversity is celebrated and inclusion is the standard.”
About the New Board Members
John Curato brings a lifelong passion for agriculture, starting from his upbringing in his grandparents’ walnut orchard. With a strong background in plant science, asset management, and finance, John’s expertise will support the Foundation’s efforts to ensure sustainable and equitable opportunities for all within the agricultural sector.
Jon Doggett is a seasoned public policy expert with decades of leadership in agriculture and trade associations, including his tenure as CEO of the National Corn Growers Association. His leadership experience and connectedness to farmers and producers will support the Foundation’s continued outreach to our community in rural America. Jon grew up on his family’s cattle and sheep ranch in central Montana.
Rod Snyder is a nationally recognized leader in agricultural sustainability and environmental policy, having served as the Senior Advisor for Agriculture to the EPA Administrator and as the first-ever Director of EPA’s Office of Agriculture and Rural Affairs. His expertise in federal policy and stakeholder engagement will help the Foundation advance sustainability and equity within the industry.
Traci Via is a dedicated connector and advocate for leadership development, committed to fostering an inclusive and supportive agricultural industry. In her role at Agriculture Future of America, she has built strong industry relationships to create opportunities for the next generation of agricultural leaders. Traci’s passion for mentorship, allyship, and leadership development will enhance the Cultivating Change Foundation’s educational initiatives and community-building efforts, ensuring that all individuals in agriculture feel valued, supported, and empowered to thrive.
For media inquiries or further information, please contact:
Tanner Kersey-Lopez
Board Member
Tanner.kersey-lopez@thecultivatingchangefoundation.org
---
About Cultivating Change Foundation: The Cultivating Change Foundation, a national 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization was launched at the start of 2016. The Foundation’s mission is to value and advance LGBTQ+ people in food and agriculture. The Foundation aims to achieve its mission through workforce development, personal growth and enhanced visibility ensuring our conversations reach a broad audience and promote positive change for LGBTQ+ people in food, agriculture and rural America. For more information about the foundation please visit our website at www.thecultivatingchangefoundation.org