Women in Cannabis: Perspectives From the Grasshopper Farms Team
March is Women’s History Month, a time to recognize and celebrate the impact women have made across industries, communities, and culture. The cannabis industry is no exception. Over the past decade, as the legal market has grown and evolved, women have helped shape how the industry operates today. Their influence can be seen across every part of the business, from cultivation and management to finance and marketing.
At Grasshopper Farms, we are proud to see that representation reflected within our team—which includes experienced horticulture professionals, former business owners, finance professionals, and even military veterans.
During Women’s History Month, we wanted to take a moment to highlight a few of the women helping shape our company and our industry. We asked three members of the team what they enjoy most about working in cannabis and what makes Grasshopper Farms special to them.
What do you enjoy about working in the cannabis industry?
Colleen Dunne, Operations Manager
After spending 35 years in the horticultural industry, the shift into working with cannabis has been exciting and challenging. Being on the ground floor in an up-and-coming industry has provided new opportunities for personal growth and learning. As someone who has seen firsthand the medicinal qualities in cannabis, it is rewarding to work in an industry with a product that has real medicinal value. I enjoy educating people on the true qualities in cannabis, both medicinal and recreational. I have found working in the cannabis industry rewarding, as I feel we are producing a product that contributes to helping others. Also, being at the early stages of the industry, we have the opportunity to change the narrative about cannabis. That itself is exciting!
Madison Haiges, Controller
One of the things I enjoy most about working in the cannabis industry is being part of a space where women are still underrepresented. I believe diverse teams create stronger outcomes, and having women at the table helps bring different perspectives, balance, and approaches to problem-solving. I also enjoy the complexity of the industry. Because cannabis is still relatively new and highly regulated, everything tends to be more challenging than in traditional industries. That constant change means there is always something new to learn or solve, which keeps the work exciting and engaging for me.
Bryna Colley, CMO
One of the things I love most about this industry is helping bring light to something that for so long existed underground and was often misunderstood. Cannabis has spent decades in the shadows, labeled as something forbidden or taboo, and it’s incredibly meaningful to now be part of an industry that is helping reshape that narrative.
What continues to inspire me the most, though, are the personal stories. I’ve met so many people who have experienced real, life-changing medicinal benefits from cannabis. A close friend of mine is currently going through chemotherapy for breast cancer, and cannabis has been one of the only things that helps her sleep. Hearing stories like that reminds me that what we’re doing isn’t just about building a business—it’s about improving quality of life for people who truly need it.
What do you love most about working at Grasshopper Farms?
Colleen Dunne, Operations Manager
I enjoy working at Grasshopper Farms for various reasons. Work hard, play hard. We are a team! With a true team approach, Grasshopper Farms is a positive and supportive company that encourages all of our different teams to stay engaged and in constant contact for support, advice, and encouragement. This camaraderie fosters a sense of belonging in an industry we are all already passionate about. Grasshopper Farms knows that working in cannabis can call for some long days. However, they understand that a good balance between work and personal life is crucial for motivation and success. That contributes to making me feel valued and appreciated. These factors and many others contribute to a fulfilling work experience. “We Are Grasshopper Farms.”
Madison Haiges, Controller
What I love most about working at Grasshopper Farms is the people. Our team has a unique balance where everyone genuinely enjoys working together and having fun, but when it’s time to focus on our goals, everyone shows up ready to work hard. That combination of strong teamwork, shared ambition, and a positive culture makes Grasshopper Farms a really special place to be.
Bryna Colley, CMO
Grasshopper Farms is the perfect brand to help change mindsets around cannabis. From the beginning, our vision has been to show people a different side of the industry—one that is welcoming, transparent, and rooted in teamwork.
When people see our farms, they see something that feels familiar and approachable. Open fields, sunlight, and real farming. It helps people connect with cannabis in a way that feels natural rather than intimidating, and I love being part of a brand that is helping normalize that experience.
But what truly makes Grasshopper Farms special is the people. I genuinely believe we have some of the most passionate, hardworking, and kind humans you could hope to work alongside. Everyone here cares deeply about the plant, the product, and the communities we serve. That shared sense of purpose makes it incredibly rewarding.
As the cannabis industry continues to grow and evolve, so will the voices helping guide its progress. Women play an important role in that every day.
This Women’s History Month, we celebrate not only the women of Grasshopper Farms, but also the many women across the cannabis industry who are helping cultivate its future.
