MONTEREY, CA – March 27, 2024 – The Monterey County Fair & Event Center (MCFEC) is excited to welcome Colton Kersey-Lopez to the MCFEC team. In his new appointment as Deputy Manager, Colton brings a wealth of experience and expertise in agricultural leadership and event and exposition management, previously serving as the Agribusiness Events Manager for the Tulsa State Fair.
A California native, Colton moved to Oklahoma to pursue his education, where he graduated from Oklahoma State University in 2018 with a Bachelor of Science in Agricultural Leadership. During his time in Oklahoma, he made significant contributions to the agricultural community, notably serving as the Director of Livestock for the Oklahoma Youth Expo, the largest youth livestock exposition in the world. In this role, Colton managed all aspects of the show, overseeing over 40,000 entries and more than 7,000 exhibitors. Additionally, he was instrumental in the inaugural year of the Cattleman’s Congress and California Youth Ag Expo, his execution of the event demonstrating his commitment to fostering growth and innovation within the industry.
Prior to his appointment at the Monterey County Fair and Event Center, Colton served as the Agribusiness Events Manager for the Tulsa State Fair at Expo Square, an event center encompassing more than 200 acres. In this capacity, he led the planning and execution of all livestock activities related to the junior and open livestock shows at the fair. Additionally, Colton played a pivotal role in managing nationally recognized horse shows such as the National Arabian Horse Association, National Snaffle Bit Association, and the Breeders Invitational, further showcasing his expertise in event management and facility operations. In addition to these full-time roles, Colton’s expertise has afforded him the opportunity to consult for a variety of livestock centered events, including the California Mid-State Fair, San Diego County Fair and the North American Livestock Exposition, in Louisville, Kentucky.
In his new role as Deputy Manager, Colton will play a key role in overseeing the operations and strategic direction of the Monterey County Fair and Events Center. “Colton’s passion for agriculture and experience in the industry makes him a valuable addition to the team,” says Kelly Violini-Rodoni, Chief Executive Officer of the Monterey County Fair & Event Center. “His appointment marks an exciting new chapter for the fair, and we’re excited to see how Colton can further MCFEC’s innovation within the industry.”
About the Monterey County Fair & Event Center
The Monterey County Fair & Event Center is a premier event center set on 22 oak-studded acres with ample parking. It is a state-owned multi-use facility that features four large banquet rooms, two outdoor concert venues, and a variety of outdoor and indoor cost-effective sites ideal for all types of events. It is home of the annual award-winning Monterey County Fair, host to many major and private events on the Central Coast, and the site of the Monterey Bay Race Place, a Satellite Wagering Facility.
