Dean's Advisory Board

The inaugural Dean’s Advisory Board was launched on August 13, 2025, bringing together a distinguished group of individuals committed to advancing the vision of the Jordan College. Our vision is one of a premier college that advances agriculture through innovation, sustainability, global engagement, and leadership.

The new board will offer timely consultation and continue to strengthen our College’s commitment to enhanced student training, innovation, sustainability, community, industry and global engagement, and leadership.

We are grateful for the service and commitment of all members, who are committed the growth of our College and its strategic plan, and include:

• Kewal Bassi – Principal, Kewal Farming
• Danny Bernstein – CEO, Reservoir Ventures (Vice-Chair)
• Jeffrey Holmes – Chief Financial Officer, Stanislaus Food Products (Secretary/Treasurer)
• Kim Naffziger – Vice President and Agricultural Specialist, Zenith Insurance Company (Chair)
• Jim Marderosian – CEO, Bee Sweet Citrus
• Maris Prado – Executive Vice President, Associated Students, Inc.
• Dr. Sam Rodriguez – Assistant Professor, Animal Science and Agricultural Education 
• Dr. Sonet Van Zyl – Professor and Chair, Viticulture & Enology
• Dr. Pei Xu – Professor, Agricultural Business
• Shannon Birkner, Ag One Executive Director and Senior Director of Development (ex officio)