Executive Director

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Breanne Vandenberg is the executive director of the Merced County Farm Bureau and has held the role since January 2016. Prior to her current role, she served as the organization’s project specialist. She has also worked within other areas of agriculture through United Genetics Seeds, E&J Gallo and the East San Joaquin Water Quality Coalition.

Vandenberg is a graduate of California State University, Chico where she obtained a degree in Agriculture Business and a minor in Animal Science. Additionally, she is a graduate of the Leadership Farm Bureau program.

She currently serves in a number of capacities as an advocate for local agriculture on issues related to water, immigration, etc. 

Program Director 

Programs and Events Director | Grower Relations

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Alexxis Rudich is the Programs and Events Director at Merced County Farm Bureau. She also handles Grower Relations for the East San Joaquin Water Quality Coalition. Prior to coming to Farm Bureau, Alexxis worked for Merced County, University of California Agriculture and Natural Resources and J. Marchini Farms. 

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Alexxis is a graduate of California State University, Stanislaus where she obtained a Bachelor of Arts in Agricultural Studies with a concentration in Agriculture Economics. 

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She serves on the Measure V Citizens Oversight Committee as the Agriculture Industry Representative.

Alexxis enjoys traveling, hiking and spending time with her husband Gabe and their Australian Shepherds, Rusty and Piper.

Membership and Communications Coordinator | Grower Relations​

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Cassandra Valdez is the Membership and Communications Coordinator. In addition, she also handles Grower Relations for the East San Joaquin Water Quality Coalition. Before joining Farm Bureau, she worked as a Program Coordinator at the Big Fresno Fair and a Leadership Development Facilitator for the National FFA Organization. 

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She studied General Agriculture at Merced College and Agricultural Communications at Fresno State. 

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In her role, Cassandra is excited to connect member with resources, share the story of agriculture, and support the work of local farmers and ranchers. 

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Outside of work, she enjoys golfing, traveling, and spending time with family, friends, and her Border Collie, Steel.