Dedicated to Serving
the Community
Melissa Been,
President and CEO
Melissa, a 2021 MBA graduate from California State University, Stanislaus, has dedicated the past decade to volunteering in Stanislaus County and working as a farmers market vendor across the Sacramento region, Butte County, and the San Francisco Bay Area. Passionate about community empowerment and sustainability, Melissa's journey reflects her commitment to fostering community well-being and promoting sustainable practices.
Michael Sederquist,
Treasurer
Michael Sederquist was born and raised in Turlock, California. He obtained his B.S. in Business Administration with an Accounting Concentration in 2009 and completed his MBA in 2018, both at California State University, Stanislaus. Michael has worked for an agricultural lender since 2014. He is excited to see the garden bring people of different backgrounds together and cultivate community.
Christina Parker, Gardener Manager
Igniting young minds through the power of education and nature, Christina Parker applies her experience as an elementary school teacher and proud mother to create magical learning experiences for children of all ages.
With a green thumb and a heart full of joy, Christina spent five amazing years managing a school garden, organizing incredible classroom events, and planning unforgettable field trips.
Today, she helps nurture curious minds and cultivate a love for learning with nature crafts and other fun outdoor activities at Turlock Community Gardens.
Em Pressman,
Board Member
Em joined the TCG team as a volunteer in the summer of 2021, bringing both plant expertise and a strong commitment to community service. Dedicated to minimizing food waste, Em actively gathers surplus produce to support local food pantries and neighboring nonprofit organizations.
Brittney Cuenca,
Board Member
Brittney, a dedicated community advocate, leads a program at Turlock Community Gardens, empowering local moms in collective gardening for skill development and fresh produce access. As an active member of the Turlock Garden Club, she facilitates plant and seed sharing, and she also contributes her expertise to the East Stanislaus Resource Conservation District. Brittney is on her path to becoming a UCCE Master Gardener, furthering her commitment to sustainable horticulture.
Hector Vera,
Board Member
Hector holds a bachelor's degree in biology, specializing in micro and molecular biology from California State University Stanislaus. In late 2019, he initiated a ¼ acre market garden project, incorporating regenerative agricultural methods. In 2020, Hector completed the UC Cooperative Extension Master Gardener program in Stanislaus County. Passionate about sustainable gardening, he focuses on enhancing soil structure and nurturing the soil microbiome. Hector also integrates native plants to create a sanctuary for California's pollinator community.