IA celebrates 2024 scholarship winners

Learn more about some of the recipients of the Irrigation Association’s 2024 Anthony W. “Tony” LaFetra Scholarship Program sponsored by Rain Bird.
BY LUKE REYNOLDS
2024 Scholarship Program

Learn more about some of the 17 recipients of the Irrigation Association’s 2024 Anthony W. “Tony” LaFetra Scholarship Program sponsored by Rain Bird, given to college students studying and pursuing careers in the irrigation field. 

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. 

Since the program’s start in 2016, 133 students have been awarded scholarships.

Angel Lopez 

Undergraduate student at the California Polytechnic State University San Luis Obispo, San Luis Obispo, California 

“I am currently pursuing a degree in bioresource and agricultural engineering at Cal Poly, focusing on various systems including irrigation. My studies in irrigation are only just at its beginning, but I’ve come to notice many of the irrigation concepts are intertwined within other classes. My interest in irrigation stems from the vital role water plays in agriculture and my desire to improve these systems for a sustainable, possibly autonomous future. My future plans include taking courses in irrigation engineering/systems and exploring career opportunities in the water industry to contribute to its advancement and sustainability.” 

Bailey Kuhn 

Undergraduate student at the University of Wisconsin River Falls, River Falls, Wisconsin 

“My study of irrigation has helped me see how farmers can be more sustainable when watering their crops and understanding how streams of water are affected nearby. There’s a lot to think about with irrigation and I still have a lot to learn but it’s opportunities like these events that help the most to educate more than just me. 

I am interested in the field of irrigation because it lies at the intersection of environmental sustainability and agricultural productivity. The efficient use of water resources is crucial in addressing global challenges such as water scarcity. Being a farmer myself I understand the importance of water and want to make sure my family and I are using our water for our crops and livestock with sustainability in mind. 

My future plans in irrigation involve educating farmers and agricultural workers on the benefits and techniques of efficient irrigation that is essential. To accomplish this, I will plan and develop resources to help farmers adopt advanced irrigation practices, while also using these practices on my family farm. Lastly, with all the farmland that my family has I will be a promising customer to our local irrigation services.” 

Breanna Selsor 

Undergraduate student at Iowa State University, Ames, Iowa  

It is an honor to have received the Anthony W. LaFetra Scholarship. Today, irrigation plays a crucial role in many agricultural practices as water is becoming scarce. As I continue to study agricultural communications and international agriculture, I strive to learn more about innovative practices to share with producers so they can be more efficient and sustainable. The scholarship enables me to devote more time to my studies and college extracurricular activities. In the future, I hope to work for an association like the Irrigation Association as a communications specialist. It is my desire to promote and educate new technologies and products while serving my members to the best of my ability in this position.” 

Katie Marra 

Undergraduate student at Rutgers University New Brunswick, New Brunswick, New Jersey 

“I have the pleasure and opportunity to work with irrigation each week in the NJAES Research Greenhouse at Rutgers University. I study irrigation to gain a deeper understanding of the ways in which human practices are employed to best use our limited resources sustainably. In the future, I aim to conduct meaningful research which will address the ecological imperatives we face and improve irrigation and agriculture as a whole.” 

Siena Giddens 

Undergraduate student at Saddleback College, Mission Viejo, California 

“My interest for the field began with my father who works in irrigation. I remember hearing a lot about what a career in the field would entail through him as I was growing up. While I do not have specific plans for my future, I am excited to work alongside the many talented individuals in the industry so I may expand my knowledge and better my craft.” 

Mia Apps 

Undergraduate student at University of Idaho, Moscow, Idaho 

“I am currently pursuing a degree in agricultural education at the University of Idaho, where I have developed a strong foundation in the struggles faced in agriculture everyday. Through coursework, research projects, and group work, I have gained valuable insights into the complexities of water management and irrigation systems and strive to improve them by educating the next generations.” 

Anna Davis 

Undergraduate student at North Carolina State University, Raleigh, North Carolina  

“Through my coursework and a Biological & Agricultural Engineering student, I have encountered assignments, information, and resources that are applicable to the field of irrigation. On top of my coursework, I know that irrigation innovations are a key component to providing enough food for future generations. I look forward to a future where I can collaborate with other irrigation engineers and scientists to develop innovative solutions to the problems our world faces.” 

Tyler Langer 

Undergraduate student at the College of Southern Idaho 

“I have told many folks that ‘I want to play in puddles for a living.’ I see the irrigation industry as an excellent way to achieve my goal. There are many branches of which I can study and advance down. My study of irrigation at CSI has been engaging. I have learned many things, notably how the federal protection of salmon effects surface irrigation here in the Snake River Plain. I currently plan on continuing my education at CSI to learn more about hydrology. After which I hope to find a position locally with entities such as a canal company or Idaho Department of Water Resources.” 

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