The cannabis industry has made remarkable strides of late, and the first-ever High Times 100 celebrates the efforts of the men and women currently shaping the marijuana landscape. While the remarkable contributions of pot pioneers throughout the 20th century are largely responsible for the freedoms and successes we now enjoy, this list focuses on the people who are actively influencing the cannabis world. As such, we’ve limited the HT 100 to the living, with an emphasis on current contributions to cannabis. Here are the 100 most influential growers, extract artists, dispensary owners, product makers, activists, politicians, scientists, media members, celebs and sports figures in the cannabis world.
Dispensary Owners
Aaron Justis—Buds & Roses
Under the leadership of president and CEO Aaron Justis, the Buds & Roses team has been recognized for its efforts with a consistent customer and revenue growth, and 26 High Times Cannabis Cup awards. Buds & Roses consistently sources and sells the highest-quality cannabis available, creating a premier shopping experience year-round. The store’s friendly, attentive staff are rigorously trained and certified in cannabis knowledge, so they can expertly guide each client to the best product for their needs.
Steve DeAngelo—Harborside Health Center
Steve DeAngelo has been a cannabis activist, advocate, entrepreneur and educator for over four decades. He has founded many successful socially responsible ventures, including Oakland’s Harborside Health Center, one of the largest cannabis dispensaries in the world, where he serves as CEO. As an accomplished speaker, DeAngelo can be found at events and conferences around the globe. His unique sense of style and his passion for cannabis make him both a role model and a cultural icon.
Wanda James—Simply Pure
Wanda James was the first (and for a long time, the only) African-American cannabis-dispensary owner