Texas International Produce Association recognizes trio of women

Three women have been recognized for their contributions to the produce industry by In Bloom, Texas International Produce Association (TIPA)’s Women in Produce.

The awards will be presented at the inaugural In Bloom: TIPA Women Honoring Their Own ceremony on Feb. 27 in McAllen, Texas.

The winners are:

Legacy Award

Pamela Mitchell
Founder
Mr. Lucky

Mitchell grew Mr. Lucky into one of the most recognizable brands of Mexican fresh vegetables in the U.S. after beginning her career as a line packer for Pillsbury’s fresh vegetable line.

For more than 40 years, Mitchell educated U.S. and Canadian retailers on the benefits and quality of Mexican-grown produce.

Lifetime Achievement Award

Mary Velasquez
General manager
Coast Tropical

Velasquez, with more than 30 years of service in the produce industry, made history as the first Hispanic woman on the TIPA board of directors.

She also served as chair of the BIMP committee and is a member of the National Mango Board.

Rising Star Award

Kristen Davis
Food safety manager
Tex-Mex Sales

A third-generation farmer from South Texas, Davis currently serves vice president of the South Texas Onion Committee, Chairwoman of Y-TIPA (a TIPA networking and education division for industry professionals under 35), and is a member of the TIPA board.

“These incredible women embody the spirit of leadership, perseverance, and innovation that drives our industry forward,” Michelle Cortez, In Bloom chair, said in a news release.

“We are thrilled to celebrate their achievements and highlight the positive impact they’ve made in the produce community.”

Event registration is available online.