BAKERSFIELD, CA—Last week Grimmway Farms President Jeff Huckaby was honored at the 13th Annual California State University, Bakersfield (CSUB) Alumni Hall of Fame Gala held at Seven Oaks Country Club. The CSUB Alumni Hall of Fame showcases outstanding graduates of the university’s more than 50,000 alumni who have brought honor and distinction to the university. The 2019 Alumni Hall of Fame inductees also include Charlotte Brandt, Tom Corson and Gene Tackett.
The gala celebrated the 2019 inductees, a diverse group of leaders who carry deep passion for their respective industries and enduring commitment to the Bakersfield community. Nearly 300 guests attended the event, including Mayor Karen Goh, Assemblyman Vince Fong, Supervisor Mick Gleason and Supervisor Mike Maggard. Remarks were shared by Justin Salters, President of the Alumni Association, as well as Dr. Lynnette Zelezny, President of CSUB.
“Jeff Huckaby represents the very best of what can be accomplished with a degree from CSU Bakersfield and is a deserving recipient of this prestigious honor. He is a successful businessman who gives back to his community and serves as an inspiration to our students. We are so proud of his many outstanding achievements,” said Dr. Zelezny.
A fourth-generation farmer with 30 years of experience in the agriculture industry, Jeff Huckaby graduated from CSUB in 1989 and has served as president of Grimmway Farms since 2016. Huckaby was introduced through a video featuring Kari Grimm Anderson, co-owner of Grimmway Farms; Walter Robb, advisor and former co-CEO of Whole Foods; and Huckaby’s wife Michelle and son Austin.
“I am lucky to do what I love every day and humbled to be a recipient of this prestigious award. I thoroughly appreciate the education I received from Cal State Bakersfield and I am extremely grateful for the opportunities that Grimmway Farms has provided me. Congratulations to the other outstanding recipients—it was a pleasure and an honor to share the evening with fellow alumni and our community,” said Huckaby.
Hall of Fame honorees are selected by a committee of university representatives and the CSUB Alumni Association board members. 50 alumni have been inducted into the Hall of Fame since it was established in 2006.
About Grimmway Farms
Family-owned and headquartered in Bakersfield, California, Grimmway Farms traces its roots to a produce stand opened by the Grimm brothers in the early 1960s. Grimmway is a global produce leader and the world’s largest producer of carrots. Grimmway supplies more than 65 organic, USA-grown crops and brands include Cal-Organic Farms and Bunny-Luv. Grimmway is committed to caring for customers and employees, honoring sustainable practices and preserving natural resources for future generations. For more information, visit www.grimmway.com
About California State University, Bakersfield
California State University, Bakersfield is a comprehensive public university committed to offering excellent undergraduate and graduate programs that advance the intellectual and personal development of its students. An emphasis on student learning is enhanced by a commitment to scholarship, diversity, service, global awareness and life-long learning. The University collaborates with partners in the community to increase the region’s overall educational attainment, enhance its quality of life, and support its economic development. For more information, visit www.csub.edu
