CDFA congratulates State Organic Program Special Investigator Leslie Fernandez for recently being recognized with a Women Making a Difference Award from Orange County.
This award is given to women who have demonstrated exceptional leadership, impact and commitment in their fields, as well as meaningful contributions to their communities. The Certificate of Recognition reads, in part, “Your leadership and unwavering commitment to advancing the rights and issues of women in Orange County embodies this year’s theme: ‘Moving Forward Together! Women Educating & Inspiring Generations.’ ”
The award recognizes both professional achievements and dedication to making a lasting difference beyond immediate roles. Leslie is a certified Spanish translator and heavily involved in the Latino Connection Conference, hosted annually by California State University, Long Beach, where she contributes to fostering connections, sharing resources and supporting initiatives that empower the Latino community. She also serves as a Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA), a volunteer appointed by a judge to advocate for the best interests of children who have experienced abuse or neglect, ensuring their needs are met and their voices are heard in court.
Leslie’s role at CDFA includes helping strengthen California’s role as the only state with a federally approved State Organic Program. She oversees collaboration with county agricultural commissioners and offers direct guidance on organic agriculture enforcement, registration, compliance, case coordination, and regional training activities. Leslie plays a pivotal role in bridging the state’s regulatory goals with local implementation, ensuring counties remain aligned with state and federal organic standards.
Congratulations, Leslie!