Ron Foster receives UCD’s Soderquist Award

Laura Pizzo – Davis Enterprise
The UC Davis Foundation has recognized Ron Foster with the prestigious 2017 Charles J. Soderquist Award. The annual award is presented to individuals who demonstrate excellence in philanthropy, volunteerism and leadership, and an overall commitment to UCD.

Foster is an owner and board member of Livingston-based Foster Farms, where he served as president and chief executive officer for more than 12 years. He has been a strong champion for the university, particularly in the Central Valley of California and in the poultry industry.

“I am proud to be a donor and volunteer at UC Davis, where brilliant minds are working to solve the world’s greatest challenges, including those facing farms and society overall,” Foster said. “The excellence of this university makes me all the more thrilled to be honored with this award.”

The Soderquist Award started in 2005 in honor of UCD alumnus, entrepreneur and philanthropist Charles Soderquist. It awards the recipients $5,000, which they donate to a university program or field of their choice.

Foster has decided to give his prize money to the School of Veterinary Medicine’s poultry medicine program, which provides students with access to hands-on learning opportunities at California poultry farms, including Foster Farms.

“As a volunteer and philanthropist, Ron has been instrumental in helping UC Davis and the School of Veterinary Medicine grow an engaged and committed group of volunteers and donors,” said Bruce Bell, chair of the UCD Foundation. “We are very pleased to recognize him as this year’s recipient of the Charles J. Soderquist Award.”

Foster previously received the School of Veterinary Medicine’s Distinguished Service Award for his support as an adviser, fundraiser, philanthropist, grateful client and corporate partner.

He has served as a charter member of the School of Veterinary Medicine’s Dean’s Leadership Council for nearly 20 years and is currently the co-chair of the council.

“Ron Foster is an accomplished leader who has an immense commitment to the mission of the UC Davis School of Veterinary Medicine and is an outstanding choice to be the next recipient of the Charles J. Soderquist Award,” wrote Michael Lairmore, dean of the School of Veterinary Medicine, in his nomination letter.

This article originally appeared on UC Davis News.