Irrigation Association names scholarship winners

The Irrigation Association awarded 18 scholarships May 8 through the 2023 Anthony W. “Tony” LaFetra Scholarship Program, sponsored by Rain Bird. In its seventh year, the program highlighted deserving recipients studying and pursuing careers in the irrigation field.

The 18 students are from colleges and universities around the United States and are enrolled in associate to graduate programs with an irrigation focus. The scholarships, ranging from $1,000 to $3,000, were awarded to students who have shown a passion and interest in sustainability, stewardship and use of water, and the essential contributions irrigated landscapes and irrigated agriculture have in improving the quality of life through a reliable global food supply and vital green spaces.

Congratulations to the winners of the 2023 Anthony W. “Tony” LaFetra Scholarship Program

• Matthew Antunes – University of Connecticut, Anthony W. “Tony” LaFetra Scholar
• Cameron Lowrey – California Polytechnic State University, Anthony W. “Tony” LaFetra Scholar
• Darren Baty – California State University, Fresno
• Matthew Frazier – San Jose State University
• Lauren Fuhrman – Kansas State University
• Adrian Gomez – Oklahoma State University
• Emily Hanson – University of Nebraska-Lincoln
• Miller Hayes – University of Georgia
• Nathan James – Colorado State University
• Loretta Klecker – Michigan State University
• Idalia Navarro – California State University, Fresno
• Josie Prince – Clemson University
• Cynthia Robbins – Saddleback College/MiraCosta College
• Travis Roberson – Virginia Polytechnic University
• Mary Rodriguez – MiraCosta College
• Zachary Sannar – Utah State University
• Margaret Usher – California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo
• Hattie Witherell – Oklahoma State University

Nathan Bowen promoted to IA advocacy and public affairs vice president

Nathan Bowen has been promoted to advocacy and public affairs vice president for the Irrigation Association. Bowen joined the IA in 2022 as the organization’s advocacy director.

In this role, Bowen is responsible for planning and executing the strategic direction of the initiatives focused on the IA’s public affairs, government relations, and standards and codes efforts. Bowen continues his work serving as the chief lobbyist for the IA and leading the association’s government relations work at the federal, state and local levels. In addition, Bowen will spearhead the IA’s public affairs efforts that help share the positive impact of irrigated agriculture and irrigated landscapes and drive messaging for the industry and consumers.

“We are excited to have Nathan help build on our efforts to share the story of the positive contributions of the irrigation industry,” says Natasha Rankin, MBA, CAE, Irrigation Association chief executive officer. “Our increased emphasis on external affairs is a demonstration of the IA’s commitment to our new strategic direction to elevate the impact and value of the industry with decision-makers from Capitol Hill to the grower and consumer.”

In addition to his advocacy and public affairs responsibilities, Bowen will also manage the industry’s participation in standards and code development initiatives, working with aligned organizations, standard-setting bodies and industry experts.

“I am thrilled to take on this expanded position at the IA and amplify the irrigation industry’s priorities with decision-makers in Washington and around the country,” said Bowen. “I look forward to working with our members and stakeholders to tell our industry’s story about the value that irrigated agriculture and landscapes bring to our people and communities across the country and around the world.”