By Sureena Johl, CDFA
Earlier this month, Secretary Karen Ross attended the 2026 Common Threads North event in Chico, an evening dedicated to recognizing women whose contributions have strengthened agriculture and the communities it sustains.
Common Threads North brought together a diverse group of honorees whose work spans farming, beekeeping, policy, business, water management, and community leadership. While their paths differ, they are united by a shared commitment to service, stewardship, and advancing agriculture beyond their own operations.
This year, the event carried added significance as part of the International Year of the Woman Farmer. While this global recognition elevates the role of women in agriculture worldwide, Common Threads North reflected how that impact is realized at the local level through leadership, innovation, and community investment.
At the center of the evening were the honorees themselves:
- Manpreet Bains: Multi-generational farming rooted in stewardship and community
- Jackie Park-Burris: Beekeeping that sustains critical pollination systems
- Karen Mills: Legal and policy leadership that ensures agriculture has a voice
- Rose Tryon VanCott: Advocacy that bridges rural communities with decision-makers
- Toni Scott: Business leadership that invests in the next generation
- Anjanette Shadley: Water expertise that strengthens long-term agricultural resilience
Their individual stories are powerful, but what resonated most wasn’t any single accomplishment, it was the collective impact and appreciation for their communities.
Events like Common Threads North play an important role in making that impact visible. They create space not only for recognition, but for connection—reinforcing that the strength of agriculture depends on a diversity of voices, experiences, and leadership.
They also offer a moment to pause and acknowledge the people behind the work. In an industry shaped by constant motion and seasonal demands, taking time to recognize leadership is both meaningful and necessary.
In a year dedicated to celebrating women farmers around the world, this gathering in Chico serves as a powerful reminder: supporting women in agriculture is not only about recognition—it is about continued investment in the people shaping its future.
Because when women in agriculture are supported and celebrated, the entire industry grows stronger.
Know a woman making a difference in agriculture?
Take a moment to recognize her. Nominations for future Common Threads honorees can be submitted on the program website here: https://www.commonthreadsnorth.com/nomination
