Jim Ford of Cotati was recently named a California State University Alumni Advocate of the Year for his consistent service and commitment to Sonoma State University and the CSU system. Ford was one of 23 alumni advocates chosen from each of the California State University campuses.
Since 1993, Ford has been a principal of The Fifth Resource, Inc., a Cotati, California-based firm committed to helping businesses grow in Sonoma and Napa counties. The company promotes sustainable economic development through good business practices and employment advocacy, and utilizing industrial engineering tools to develop business and facilities plans.
Ford earned his bachelor's of science in industrial engineering from Cal Poly Pomona in 1972 and his master's degree in management from SSU in 1979. He served as president of SSU's Alumni Association from 2000-2001. During that time, he helped plan and create the Alumni Grove, Alumni Amphitheater and Alumni Brick Path on the campus.
In 2004, SSU honored Ford with the Distinguished Alumni Award for his community service commitment. During that time, Ford acted as board chair and advocate for partnership between SSU and the Rancho Adobe Fire District, and helped develop a FEMA grant for more than $300,000 to replace breathing apparatus and other equipment.
ABOVE, Jim Ford (left) with President Ruben Arminana.
Check out Community Voice reporter Heidi Bailey's article about
Jim Ford.
