Nave to receive California fruit association’s award

Kathleen Nave, president and CEO of the California Table Grape Commission, is the California Fresh Fruit Association’s 2018 Mentor’s Award recipient.

Nave, who has been with the grape association for 30 years — 19 as president, will be honored at the California Fresh Fruit Association’s (CFFA) 82nd annual meeting March 25-27, in Pebble Beach, Calif.

“We could not be more pleased that the Mentor’s Committee selected Kathleen for this recognition and award,” CFFA President George Radinovich said in a news release. “Kathleen’s long-term commitment and support has been paramount to the successes of the fresh fruit industry and our association.”

The award recognizes leaders in the industry who have had a positive influence and exhibited innovation, dedication and perseverance, according to the release. The committee is comprised of the association’s five most recent chairmen.

With a budget of about $20 million, the California Table Grape Commission oversees consumer and trade marketing campaigns, manages a worldwide grape licensing program, and funds research on health benefits and production practices.

During her tenure at the commission, its work has included opening export markets including Australia, China and India; expanding export promotions; and developing a patenting and licensing program for U.S. Department of Agriculture-bred table grapes.