April 16 proved an eventful day for the California Grocers Association Educational Foundation as it inducted three industry veterans into its Hall of Achievement and raised more than $500,000 to help fund its college scholarship and tuition reimbursement programs.
With the latest contributions, the CGAEF has secured about $1,025,000 in scholarship commitments this year, bringing its lifetime scholarship total to nearly $12.5 million in supporting future grocery industry leaders in their pursuit of higher education.
For the 2026-27 academic year, the foundation is offering more than 425 college scholarship opportunities to industry members and their dependents.
Welcomed into the hall during the gala at the Sonoma Raceway in Sonoma, California, were Jim Perkins, president and CEO for The Save Mart Companies; Shane Sampson, retired CEO for The Save Mart Companies; and Herb Smith, VP of off-premises customer development and category management for Gallo.
The three leaders were honored for their commitment to industry education and mentorship.
“Shane, Jim and Herb exemplify the very best of our industry,” said CGAEF President Ron Fong. “Their induction into the Hall of Achievement is not only a well-deserved honor, but also a moment for our industry to come together in celebration and purpose.
“The industry’s support of the HOA event enables the foundation to continue investing in the next generation of grocery leaders and ensures its impact continues for years to come.”
The CGAEF also presented the CGA Rising Stars awards to eight emerging grocery leaders who are making an impact on the industry.
Recipients included Keely Antonio, Superior Brands; Courtney Carranza, Albertsons/Vons; Parminder Dhillon, The Save Mart Companies; Katee Gustavson, BriarPatch Food Co-Op; Branden Hester, Sprouts Farmers Market; Andria Monceaux, Twang Brands; Christian Spoor, Botticelli Foods; and Brie Walker, Flashfood;
Recipient of CGAEF’s eighth annual $10,000 Legends of the Industry Scholarship, Ryan Montez of Smart & Final, addressed the gathering to share how the industry’s support will help him fulfill his education and career ambitions.
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