A Santa Maria farmer has been honored as the “Woman of the Year” by State Assemblyman, Katcho Achadjian for the 35th District, Achadjian’s office announced April 15.
Lorena Chavez, controller and CFO of L&G Farming in Santa Maria, was honored for her many contributions to the community, as well as her business accomplishments.
She has been recognized as Santa Maria Hispanic Businessperson of the Year, and received the Latino Business Leadership Award and YMCA Campaign Award.
She was also recently honored as one of the Latinas of Influence by Hispanic Lifestyle at Latina Conference in Ontario. Chavez was elected to the California Strawberry Commission in 2007 and in 2015 became the first woman and first Latina to chair the Commission.
“Ms. Chavez is an extraordinary leader,” Achadjian said, “as a businesswoman and as a volunteer for many different organizations on the Central Coast. In addition to managing a thriving family business, she really goes the extra mile to give back to our community. We are fortunate to have such a compassionate and giving person working so hard in the 35th Assembly District.”
Chavez was born to Luis and Consuelo Chavez after her father came to the United States from Jalisco, Mexico with the Bracero Program. Her introduction into farming began as a teenager, working after school and on weekends.
She is now controller of L&G Farms, Inc., a Chavez family-operated business since 1985, and CFO of DL Farm Management, Inc., which she owns in partnership with her brother Daniel Chavez.
“I am honored to be recognized alongside so many amazing women from around the state,” Chavez said. “I am thankful to Assemblyman Achadjian for this opportunity and for the attention this brings to the organizations with which I serve.”
Each year as part of Women’s History Month, members of the State Assembly choose an outstanding woman to honor as Woman of the Year. Started in 1987, the Woman of the Year Award has become an annual celebration of community service and outstanding contributions by women in California.
