Texas produce industry celebrates legacy and leadership at 2026 Hall of Fame
Texas produce industry celebrates legacy and leadership at 2026 Hall of Fame
The Texas International Produce Association recently hosted the 2026 Texas Produce Hall of Fame at the Mission Events Center, drawing nearly 300 industry members, partners and guests.
Held every two years, the Texas Produce Hall of Fame recognizes individuals whose leadership, service and vision have left a lasting mark on Texas agriculture and the broader produce community.
“The Texas Produce Hall of Fame is one of the most meaningful events we host,” said Dante Galeazzi, president and chief executive officer of TIPA. “It gives us the opportunity to honor the pioneers who built this industry, recognize today’s leaders and invest in the next generation who will carry it forward.”
2026 Texas Produce Hall of Fame Inductees
TIPA inducted the following leaders into the Texas Produce Hall of Fame:
· Steve Cargil, Cargil Farms Produce
· Marvin Davis, Tex-Mex Sales
· James Peterson, Starr Produce
· Tommy Wilkins, Horton Fruit Co.
Each inductee was honored for their enduring contributions to the produce industry and their influence on Texas agriculture and the communities it supports.
“These inductees represent the values that define our industry—hard work, integrity, innovation and service,” Galeazzi said. “Their legacies continue to shape Texas produce today.”
Additional Industry Awards
TIPA also recognized excellence and emerging leadership with the following awards:
Scott Toothaker Award
· Craig Fox, Fox Packaging
Rising Star Awards
· Will Beckwith, Beckwith Produce
· Jose Bernal, Sweet Seasons
· Kristen Davis, Tex-Mex Sales
· Johnny Garcia, The Veg Depot
“It’s equally important that we celebrate those who are building the future of our industry,” Galeazzi added. “These award recipients exemplify leadership, dedication and promise.”
Scholarship Recipients Recognized
As part of TIPA’s commitment to education and workforce development, scholarships were awarded to:
· Mariela Elizondo
· Jonah Henderson
· Sadie Smith
· Macey Thomas
· Bryson Whitlow
“Supporting students through scholarships ensures that our industry remains strong for generations to come,” Galeazzi said. “These students represent the future of Texas agriculture.”
An Evening of Reflection and Celebration
In addition to the awards program, attendees participated in a silent auction benefiting TexPAC initiatives and browsed photo albums featuring past Texas Produce Hall of Fame inductees.
“Seeing the history of our Hall of Fame displayed alongside today’s honorees was a powerful reminder of how far this industry has come,” Galeazzi said. “It’s an honor to celebrate that legacy together.”
Event photos and inductee tribute videos are available online.