Rancho Mirage, CA (March 5, 2025) - The 99th Annual Pacific Seed Association (PSA) Convention was held at the OMNI Rancho Las Palmas Resort in Rancho Mirage, CA.
According to the PSA, "Attendees enjoyed exceptional weather, engaging speakers, and valuable networking opportunities. Year after year, the convention continues to serve as a cornerstone event for industry professionals, providing a platform for meaningful connections and insightful discussions that support business growth and industry collaboration."
On behalf of the PSA Board of Directors, PSA President Michael Rascon says, "I extend my sincere gratitude to all who contributed to making this event such a success. A special thank you goes to our sponsors, whose generous support is instrumental in making the convention possible. Your commitment to PSA and its mission is truly appreciated."
PSA President Grant Baglietto and Convention Chair Katy Soden led an outstanding program, featuring a diverse range of industry and educational speakers, an unforgettable tour of the Palm Springs Tramway, and the signature golf tournament. The convention also provided ample opportunities for networking and social engagement, culminating in a final evening of camaraderie and entertainment, highlighted by an incredible acapella performance by The Accidentals.
"Our appreciation goes to Golf Chair Mike Ingham for coordinating another fantastic day on the links."
The convention’s educational sessions featured expert-led discussions on critical industry topics, including leveraging new technology for precision nitrogen management, advancements in seed processing and packaging, strategies for energizing sales teams, and the latest developments in regenerative agriculture. Attendees also received a comprehensive ASTA report presented by Crystal Fricker.
"We were privileged to host an exceptional lineup of speakers, including Mark Lundy, Ph.D., Freya Jensen, Rob Moreland, Shawn Brook, Tim LaSalle, Ph.D., and Crystal Fricker, all of whom provided valuable insights to help advance our industry."
PSA’s Past Presidents gathered for a special breakfast meeting, where they exchanged ideas and strategies to ensure the Association’s continued success and laid the groundwork for celebrating PSA’s 100th Annual Convention.
During the PSA Annual Meeting, members received an overview of the Association’s activities, a financial update, and reports from key committee chairs, including:
- Membership – Kathy Hutton
- Communications & PSA Cares – McKayla Smucker
- Turf Seed – Crystal Fricker
- Field Seed – Crystal Cox
- Native Seed Update – Jessica Hoard
- Alfalfa Crop Report – Chuck Deatherage
- Scholarship Awards – Jennifer Wall
This year’s 2025 PSA Scholarship recipients were:
- Tegan Macy – University of Idaho
- Josh DeSantiago – Brigham Young University
- Marita White – Washington State University
- Shaley Tiegs – University of Idaho
"Congratulations to all of our scholarship recipients, and a heartfelt thank you to those who contribute to this vital program. Your generosity plays a crucial role in supporting the next generation of seed industry professionals."
2025 PSA Leadership
The nominating committee presented the 2025 slate of officers and directors, which was unanimously approved by the membership.
"We extend our appreciation to these individuals for their dedication and service to PSA, and we look forward to a productive year ahead."
OFFICERS
- President – Michael Rascon, TriCal Superior Forage, Albany, OR
- 1st Vice President – Freya Jensen, Verbruggen Palletizing Solutions, Pasco, WA
- 2nd Vice President – McKayla Smucker, Pure Seed, Canby, OR
- Secretary/Treasurer – Jennifer Wall, Ioka Marketing LLC, Silverton, OR
- Past President – Grant Baglietto, Baglietto Seeds, Stockton, CA
DIRECTORS
- Crystal Cox – Integrated Seed Growers LLC, Amity, OR
- Rachel Hankins – Barenbrug USA, Tangent, OR
- Karen Krych – Clearwater Seed, Spokane, WA
- Katy Soden – California Crop Improvement Association, Davis, CA
- Annelisa Zander – Berger International, Hillsboro, OR