In Bloom Calls for Award Nominations to Celebrate Women in Produce; Michelle Cortez and April Flowers Detail


Tue. January 14th, 2025 - by ANUK Staff

MISSION, TX - In Bloom, Texas International Produce Association (TIPA)’s Women in Produce, is thrilled to announce its first annual awards program celebrating women in the produce industry. The awards will be presented at the inaugural ceremony, In Bloom: TIPA Women Honoring Their Own on February 27, 2025, in McAllen, Texas. 

Nominations are now open for two prestigious awards, in addition to a posthumous award that has already been selected by the committee:

  • Lifetime Achievement Award: Recognizing an individual with 20+ years of service in the produce industry who has left a lasting legacy
  • Rising Star Award: Highlighting a professional who has demonstrated exceptional promise with at least two years in the produce industry

Nominees must be members of TIPA, and submissions can be made using this nomination form by January 31st .

Michelle Cortez, Committee Chairwoman, In Bloom Women's Committee and Sales Director, Babia

“This inaugural awards program is a wonderful opportunity to bring TIPA members together to celebrate the incredible women in our industry,” said In Bloom Chair Michelle Cortez. “We’re excited to honor their achievements and contributions leading up to our annual Viva Fresh event.”

At this year’s Viva Fresh Produce Expo, taking place April 10-12, 2025, in Houston, In Bloom will host A League of Our Own networking event designed to foster collaboration and leadership development among women in produce. 

In Bloom, Texas International Produce Association (TIPA)’s Women in Produce, is thrilled to announce its first annual awards program celebrating women in the produce industry

Scheduled for April 11 from 9:30-11:30 a.m., the gathering promises to be a dynamic and engaging experience for both seasoned and new industry professionals.

April Flowers, Committee Chairwoman, In Bloom Women's Committee and Marketing Director, Lone Star Citrus Growers

“This year’s event, A League of Our Own, is sure to knock it out of the park,” said In Bloom Co-chair April Flowers. “It’s a great opportunity for women in the industry to connect, learn from each other, and have a little fun while celebrating our shared passion for the produce industry.”

In Bloom continues to support and empower women in produce by creating spaces for recognition, collaboration, and growth. For more information about nominations, or to get involved with In Bloom, contact Michelle Cortez at [email protected] or April Flowers at [email protected].

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