Central Executive Officer, Sweet Wheel Farms
Leslie Person Ryan is the CEO of Sweet Wheel Farms and founder of the Santa Barbara Agriculture and Farm Education Foundation. With over four decades of experience as a farmer, entrepreneur, and advocate for non-GMO seeds, and chemical-free agriculture in California and Mexico, she is dedicated to advancing sustainable food systems and community volunteerism.
Leslie holds degrees in business and art and has served in leadership roles in multiple large nonprofits focused on health, safety, and food security in Santa Barbara County. An innovative community leader, she launched initiatives such as Sweet Wheel Farms and the Santa Barbara Agriculture and Farm Education Foundation to address local food insecurity and champion agricultural education.
Her work has been recognized with numerous awards for public service, and she remains active on local boards supporting veterans, farming, and food equity.