During the annual meeting of the Fresh Produce Association of the Americas (FPAA) on May 2, the association’s president, Lance Jungmeyer, presented the FPAA Member of the Year Award to Chris Ciruli, the COO of Ciruli Brothers. The Member of the Year is nominated by FPAA members and is defined as someone who goes above and beyond in working for the betterment of the industry and its membership.
Chris served as the chairman of the FPAA from 2008-2010 and continues to serve as a board member with the association. He is also the chairman of the FPAA’s Mango Division.
Photo: Lance Jungmeyer, Chris Ciruli, FPAA Chairman-Elect Scott Vandervoet, FPAA Chairman Gonzalo Avila
“He is a proud and vocal proponent of our community and our industry,” said Sabrina Hallman, the 2015-16 winner of the Member of the Year Award and head of Sierra Seed Company. “Chris can be relied on to escort and tour visitors from near and far, and all are welcomed and educated about the produce business here on our border regardless of their stature or the size of their wallet.”
FPAA chairman Gonzalo Avila said, “Chris has always been very unselfish with his time working on behalf of our association and our community. Our industry is so much better positioned because of the work he’s done for all of us, and it is very fitting that he receives this honor from the members.”
In his remarks while presenting the award, FPAA president Lance Jungmeyer said, “When we think of this individual, we think of leadership, collegiality and optimism about the future. We think of innovative marketing. We think of a willingness to enter the political fray and say what must be said, no matter how difficult or delicate. He is a man of good humor and can calm a tense moment or difficult conversation with his frank and direct way of confronting a situation. In this business, as serious as it can be, we sometimes need a laugh to bring us back to the ground.”
Past Member of the Year Award Winners Terry Shannon, Jr., Sabrina Hallman, Chuck Thomas, Chris Ciruli, Scott Vandervoet, Walter Ram.
In addition to his roles at the FPAA, Chris is also the treasurer of the National Mango Board and a board member at the United Fresh Produce Association. He has also previously served on the United Fresh Wholesaler-Distributor Board, the PMA Foodservice Board, and with PMA’s Foundation for Industry Talent among other industry initiatives.
“Chris’s positions on national boards and his representation of the FPAA helps bring awareness of the produce industry’s issues and needs to the national stage,” added Jungmeyer.
“I am very humbled by this recognition from my peers, and I’m glad to keep giving back to the community that supports a great industry and great people,” said Chris. “I’m thankful to my family and employees that allow me so much time away from them to participate in so many wonderful industry events and to contribute to the industry.”
When Chris isn’t working at Ciruli Brothers or on one of his many industry commitments, he is also working hard to raise money for local charities, including the Boys and Girls Club of Santa Cruz County where he plays an integral role in organizing their large annual fundraising events. He also helps coach soccer for his children and enjoys family activities with his wife, three kids, and a host of extended family members and friends.
Each year’s honoree is presented with a custom metal sculpture made by Tucson artist Matt Harper. Prior honorees of the FPAA Member of the Year Award include:
2015-16 -Sabrina Hallman of Sierra Seed Company
2014-15 - Scott Vandervoet of Vandervoet & Associates
2013-14 - Walter Ram of The Giumarra Companies
2012-13 - Jaime Chamberlain of JC Distributing
2011-12 - Terry Shannon, Jr. of Shannon Brokerage
2010-11- Martin Ley of Del Campo Supreme
2009-10- Chuck Thomas of Thomas Produce
Contact:
Lance Jungmeyer
FPAA
Tel: (520)-287-2707