SACRAMENTO, Calif. — California Association of Winegrape Growers (CAWG) Chairman Tom Slater today [July 27, 2022] announced the appointment of Natalie Collins as interim president. She replaces John Aguirre who retired after twelve years of service.

“CAWG is very happy to have Natalie in this role,” Slater said. “She has been a part of the CAWG family for many years, and her insight and dedication to the association are well received. The CAWG board of directors looks forward to working with Natalie on all issues and appreciates her contributions toward the future success of our membership.” Collins said, “I am honored to serve as interim president and humbled by this opportunity. I look forward to continuing the legacy of strong leadership and advocacy on behalf of our growers. Winegrape growers in California today are facing unprecedented challenges, and I take seriously CAWG’s leadership role in this iconic industry.”

Collins joined CAWG in 2015 as the director of member relations and quickly established herself as integral to the advancement of the association. She is a graduate of California State University, Chico with a Bachelor of Science in agricultural business and minors in organizational communications and business administration. Prior to joining CAWG, she was a program director for the San Joaquin Farm Bureau Federation and a 2015 graduate of the Leadership Farm Bureau program.

Natalie resides in Lodi with her husband Kyle and their two children.

— CAWG