UnitedAg Announces 2026–2027 Board of Directors, Welcoming New Members Alex Van Wingerden and Mary Parreira

Irvine, CA — UnitedAg is proud to announce its newly elected Board of Directors for the 2026–2027 term. This distinguished group of leaders brings deep expertise across agriculture, business, and community advocacy, and will help guide the organization as it continues to deliver innovative health benefit solutions and resources to the agricultural community.

The UnitedAg Board of Directors plays a critical role in shaping the organization’s strategic direction, supporting member-focused programs, and ensuring UnitedAg remains a trusted partner for agricultural employers and their employees across California and Arizona.

“This Board reflects the heart of agriculture—leadership grounded in integrity, experience, and a deep commitment to people,” said Kirti Mutatkar, Chief Executive Officer of UnitedAg. “Our Board members bring more than expertise; they bring perspective shaped by real agricultural experience. Their leadership will help UnitedAg continue to evolve while staying true to our mission of strengthening health, stability, and opportunity for the agricultural workforce and the communities that sustain our food system.”

UnitedAg is pleased to welcome Alex Van Wingerden and Mary Parreira as new members of the Board of Directors for the 2026–2027 term.

Alex Van Wingerden, CEO of Westland Floral, is a dedicated grower, entrepreneur, and father of triplets who believes that integrity and sustainability are at the heart of every great harvest. Based in Carpinteria, California, Alex and his father, Case Van Wingerden, are established growers known for their expertise in Gerbera daisies, lilies, field flowers, orchids, poinsettias, and fresh produce.

Together, they own and operate Alexander Ranch, Westland Floral, and Gallup & Stribling Orchids, enterprises that reflect their shared commitment to quality, innovation, and sustainable farming practices. Guided by the philosophy “We grow with integrity,” Alex is passionate about leaving clean footprints for future generations and ensuring every product reflects the care, respect, and sustainability that define his work.

Mary Parreira, born and raised on California’s Central Coast, is proud to serve the agricultural community that has long been part of her family’s legacy. She currently serves as Office Manager for RPAC, LLC, overseeing Grower Accounting and supporting the financial operations of her family’s agricultural business.

Before returning to agriculture in 2013, Mary spent nearly two decades in business management roles, including nine years in optometry and ten years directing a real estate school. She attended Cabrillo College and San José State University, where she studied Enology and Business, and she is an active member of both the Almond Board and the Almond Alliance.

The 2026–2027 Board of Directors represents a broad range of agricultural sectors and leadership backgrounds, reflecting the strength and diversity of the communities UnitedAg serves. Together, the Board will help ensure the organization remains responsive to industry challenges while continuing to expand access to affordable, high-quality health benefits and services.

2026/27 Board of Directors

Eric Bream, Chair, Bream Family Farms, Inc.
Richard Plato, Vice Chair, Christopher Ranch
Santiago Martin, Jr., Treasurer, Trilogy Personnel & Land Management, Inc.
Sarah Gargan-Baxter, Kaweah Pump
Matt Bastone, Plantel Nurseries
Marylu Ramirez, GoodFarms
Gary Thiara, Empire Farming Company, LLC
Alex Van Wingerden, Westland Floral Company Carpinteria, Inc.
Mary Parreira, RPAC, LLC

For more information about UnitedAg’s Board of Directors and organizational initiatives, visit
https://www.unitedag.org/about/leadership/

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