Meet the team helping you grow

Natalie leads the operations and strategic direction of CAWG, overseeing the organization’s dedicated team and engaging directly with the Board of Directors. Her key responsibilities include federal legislation, trade policy, pest and disease programs, and advancing sustainability within the winegrape sector.

A graduate of California State University, Chico, Natalie holds a B.S. in Agricultural Business with minors in Organizational Communications and Business Administration. She joined CAWG in 2015 as Director of Member Relations and was appointed President in December 2022. Prior to CAWG, she served as Program Director for the San Joaquin Farm Bureau Federation.

Michael serves as CAWG’s primary liaison to the California Legislature and regulatory agencies, leading efforts to shape policies that affect winegrape growers statewide. He provides members with critical updates on legislation and regulation and is a respected voice in Sacramento.With over four decades of public policy experience, Michael has held senior roles in the State Senate, Assembly, and in both the Wilson and Davis administrations. Before joining CAWG in 2017, he was Chief of Staff and Communications Director for Assemblymember Marc Levine. He was named a 2023 Wine Industry Leader by Wine Business Monthly for his advocacy on behalf of California winegrape growers.

Mindy drives CAWG’s membership and communications strategy, ensuring alignment with the organization’s goals and priorities. She leads member recruitment and retention efforts while managing all core communications, including CAWG eNews, eAlerts, and The Crush newsletter, providing timely insights on key industry developments and policy issues.

Mindy holds a B.S. in Agricultural Science and an M.S. in Agricultural Business from Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo. Before joining CAWG, she managed education and outreach programs at the California Foundation for Agriculture in the Classroom and the California Association of Pest Control Advisers.

Megan spearheads CAWG’s external communications efforts to support advocacy, media relations, and member engagement. She helps shape the organization’s overall communications strategy, translating complex policy, regulatory, and economic issues into clear and compelling messaging for growers, policymakers, and the public. Megan serves as a point of contact for media inquiries.

A University of California, Davis graduate, Megan holds a B.S. in Viticulture & Enology with a minor in English and is also a graduate of the California Agricultural Leadership Program. Prior to joining CAWG, she owned a winery in Santa Cruz County and spent 15 years working in wine production and vineyard management in several countries worldwide.

Jenny oversees event planning and execution for CAWG, including industry events such as leading the educational and sponsorship components of the Unified Wine & Grape Symposium.

Carolee manages financial operations for CAWG, including budgeting, reporting, and administrative functions. She also oversees the CAWG Foundation scholarship program, supporting the next generation of agricultural leaders.