California State University, Stanislaus

John and Jeani Ferrari are second-generation farmers, activists and philanthropists who have helped raised awareness and strengthened support of such causes as farmland preservation, healthcare, homelessness, art and public libraries. Their decades-long service demonstrate and uphold core elements of the mission of the California State University and California State University Stanislaus by advocating for a deeper understanding and stewarding of the natural environment through farmland preservation work and a sustainable lifestyle.

Their philanthropy and volunteerism have and continue to enrich the Central Valley community. Mrs. Ferrari has served on the Yosemite Fund Council and Turlock Downtown Revitalization Committee and currently she serves on the Carnegie Arts Center Foundation Endowment Committee. She is also a founding member of the Stanislaus Farmland Trust, now known as the California Farmland Trust that stewards more than 80 farms and more than 17,000 acres. Mr. Ferrari has served on the Emanual Medical Center’s foundation board and has helped contribute to the enhancement of services in cancer care and cardiovascular health.

The Ferraris’ passion for libraries, art galleries and California’s agriculturally-rich Central Valley culminated in 2021 with a multi-story mural that greets visitors at the newly renovated J. Burton Vasché Library at Stanislaus State. It is an expression of the heart and soul of Jeani and John Ferrari. 

In recognition of their committed generosity to the Turlock community, sustainable innovations in agriculture and dedication to the arts and public libraries, the Board of Trustees of the California State University and California State University, Stanislaus are proud to confer upon John and Jeani Ferrari the honorary degree of Doctor of Humane Letters.