by Etienne Fontan, Director of Berkeley Patients Group

In the early days of Berkeley Patients Group (BPG), we had visions of a mature, responsible industry that would provide affordable, high quality medicine to everyone who needs access. We envisioned a future where truth and science trumped fear and lies. We dreamed of an industry with quality and testing standards and favorable banking regulations. And we did everything in our power to push this agenda forward with courage, integrity, and the patients at the center of everything we do.

Look how far we have come.

Today, many of our early visions have come to fruition. Through our hard work and relentless drive, we live in world that is far more tolerant to cannabis than ever. We live in world where more than half of America lives in a state with some form of legal cannabis. But there is still an incredible amount of difficult work to be done.

Throughout my tenure at BPG, I have worked tirelessly to innovate and question our own thinking and overall direction. I have been instrumental in constantly redefining (and occasionally disrupting) the industry. These efforts have driven positive change for our business and our industry alike.

“Change is the law of life.
And those who look only to the past or present are certain to miss the future.”
— President John F. Kennedy

After 23 years in this industry, my focus continues to be on our very bright future. We are in a time of great progress and rapid development; visionary leadership at the helm of the NCIA is integral to further legitimizing and solidifying our nascent industry.

When you cast your vote by May 16th, please cast your vote for innovation, progress, and integrity. I look forward to continuing to serve all of you.

In order to cast a vote, you will need to log into NCIA’s secure member ballot using your member company login. Only ONE ballot can be submitted per member company.

If you do not remember your password or are having trouble logging in, please contact us at info@thecannabisindustry.org or (303) 223-4530.

Please be sure to download and review our complete Voter Guide (PDF) before casting your vote.