Destinee joined the Center for Land-Based Learning in May of 2023 as the Central Valley FARMS Manager. Born and raised in the Central Valley, the highlight of Destinee’s childhood was the experiences and memories created on her family dairy. She found a passion for agriculture that only flourished over the years, and she began showing dairy cattle at the age of 9 while in 4-H, continuing in high school and beyond. In her time in the Riverdale FFA Chapter, she earned her Greenhand, Chapter, and State Degree while holding various leadership positions. Destinee is a strong advocate for FFA since she believes it teaches our youth to be responsible leaders and grow their potential for premier leadership, personal growth and career success through agricultural education.In college, Destinee advanced her skills in dairy science by working on the family dairy. She also learned about the produce industry while employed at Farmers Fresh Fruit Company. Destinee graduated from California State University, Fresno with a bachelor’s degree in agricultural education and a specialization in animal science. Shortly after graduating, she earned her teaching credential and started her journey as an agricultural educator at Hanford High School. In her four years at Hanford, Destinee most enjoyed the ability to make relationships with students, connecting real world experiences to hands-on lessons, and helping them find their passion and a career path in agriculture. In her last year of teaching, Destinee’s students participated in the FARMS Leadership program, and she saw first hand the positive impact the program makes in leading students to career success. During her free time, Destinee enjoys spending time outdoors, traveling, and playing board games. Her greatest amusement comes from making memories with her family and friends.