Fresno Developer Ed Kashian Wins 2026 Leon S. Peters Award

At 96, Kashian still leads day-to-day operations at his company, the Fresno Chamber of Commerce says.

Jan. 30, 2026 at 3:15pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

At age 96, Fresno developer Ed Kashian is still leading day-to-day operations at his land development company, Lance-Kashian & Co. On Wednesday, the Fresno Chamber of Commerce named Kashian the 2026 recipient of the prestigious Leon S. Peters Award, which honors Central Valley leaders who demonstrate the values, ethics and character exemplified by the late Leon S. Peters.

Why it matters

Kashian has been one of Fresno's top developers for more than 60 years, leaving a lasting impact on the city through projects like the River Park shopping center, Campus Pointe at Fresno State, and the recently opened Fancher Creek development. His philanthropic efforts, including helping bring the UCSF medical campus to downtown Fresno and donating $5 million to UC Merced's new Medical Education Building, have also made a significant difference in the community.

The details

Kashian founded Lance-Kashian & Co. in 1964 and later bought out partner Theodore Lance, but kept the company name. In addition to his development work, Kashian has served on the Community Medical Center board, helped secure land for the city's animal shelter, and rallied for the founding of UC Merced, where he was awarded the Chancellor's Medal in 2024.

  • Kashian founded Lance-Kashian & Co. in 1964.
  • Kashian served on the Community Medical Center board in the 1990s.
  • Kashian helped bring the UCSF medical campus to downtown Fresno.
  • In 2024, Kashian was awarded the UC Merced Chancellor's Medal.
  • The Fresno Chamber of Commerce announced Kashian as the 2026 Leon S. Peters Award recipient on January 28, 2026.

The players

Ed Kashian

A 96-year-old Fresno developer who is still leading day-to-day operations at his land development company, Lance-Kashian & Co., which he founded in 1964.

Tracy Kashian

Kashian's daughter-in-law and spokesperson for Lance-Kashian & Company.

Robert Oliver

A retired judge and 2002 recipient of the Leon S. Peters Award, who called Kashian "one of the best listeners" he's ever encountered.

Scott Miller

The president and CEO of the Fresno Chamber of Commerce, which announced Kashian as the 2026 Leon S. Peters Award recipient.

Leon S. Peters

The late businessman and philanthropist for whom the award is named, who revolutionized wine production and gave back to his community in many ways.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“He is 100% active in most of the decisions being made here as a group. He's at work every day, in most meetings, and still deciding what the future looks like.”

— Tracy Kashian, Spokesperson, Lance-Kashian & Company (gvwire.com)

“It's long overdue. He certainly would have qualified for this award many years ago. But we're here today, and we're happy to be here.”

— Scott Miller, President/CEO, Fresno Chamber of Commerce (gvwire.com)

“It didn't mean he was agreeing, but he was listening to what you were saying so he could then act on that. Every time I've had the opportunity to interact with Ed Kashian, I learned something. I learned from someone who thinks into the future.”

— Robert Oliver, Retired Judge (gvwire.com)

What’s next

The Fresno Chamber of Commerce will hold a ceremony to honor Ed Kashian with the Leon S. Peters Award on March 13, 2026 at Pardini's Catering and Banquets.

The takeaway

At 96 years old, Ed Kashian's continued leadership and impact on the Fresno community through his development projects, philanthropy, and forward-thinking approach demonstrate the lasting legacy of a true civic leader.