Western Fairs Association (WFA) announced this week that they will induct Sandy Woods, Chief Executive Officer of the Nevada County Fairgrounds, into the Western Fairs Association’s Hall of Fame at its upcoming convention in Reno.

The WFA Hall of Fame honors individuals who have made substantial contributions to the Fair industry through leadership, education, legislation and outstanding service.

Woods is being recognized for her contributions to the Fair industry, including her work at the Nevada County Fairgrounds. She has worked at the Nevada County Fairgrounds since 1995, where she started as Deputy Manager, and has served as the CEO since 2009. Additionally, Woods has served as a member of the Board of Directors of the Western Fairs Association since 2005, and served as the WFA Board President in 2012. She is currently Chair of the California Fairs Alliance, which provides advocacy and resource development for the network of California fairs.

“Sandy’s service as an Officer, and as the President of the Western Fairs, set a new bar for leadership,” noted WFA Executive Director Stephen Chamber. “Her continuing role as the Chair of the California Fairs Alliance has helped California’s 78 fairs move through the difficult challenges driven by the Great Recession. Celebrating her service will be the highlight of our January Convention.”

Prior to her work at the Nevada County Fairgrounds, Woods worked as the Controller/CFO for MasterCard for the western United States. She also has an extensive background and career in international agriculture.  Upon moving to Nevada County, she became the general manager of the Nevada City Winery and remains a director at the Winery. She is also a past director of the Nevada County Fairgrounds Foundation, as well as a member of the Foothill Lions Club.

“The Hall of Fame Board of Governors did an outstanding job,” said WFA President Pat Kress. “Sandy defines commitment and service to the fair community. She has worked tirelessly on behalf of the California fair network. She is a great addition to the WFA Hall of Fame.”

The Western Fairs Association is a non-profit trade association serving the Fair industry throughout the Western United States and Canada. WFA serves fair-related businesses, fair management, fair board directors, festivals, and industry associations.

Woods’ induction will take place in January at WFA’s industry awards celebration in Reno.