2023 WRCCA Allan Romander Scholarship and Mentor Award Winners
It is with great enthusiasm that we reveal the selection of eight exceptional individuals for the 2023 WRCCA Allan Romander Mentor & Scholarship Awards.
MENTOR AWARDS
SOUTH VALLEY
Our South Valley recipient is Tracey Emmerick Takeuchi, a Plant Science Lecturer at Cal Poly Pomona, holding both a B.S. and M.S. in Plant Sciences. The award will support the student learning farm (conventional and organic) with the purchase of a small, portable rototiller for small plot work. The grant will also purchase high tunnel covers for small production systems supportive of intensive growing techniques, and irrigation supplies.
NORTH VALLEY
Our North Valley recipient is Richard Rosecrance, a professor at CSU Chico, College of Agriculture specializing in Plant Sciences. With an academic journey that includes a BS from Cornell College, an MS in Horticulture from Hawaii, and a PhD in Plant Ecology from UC Davis, Rich brings a wealth of knowledge to his role. Additionally, his valuable experience with the Peace Corps in Nepal enriches his perspective. Rich plans to utilize the award to acquire 5 Temperature/Light Data Loggers. This new tool will enable students to conduct empirical investigations on temperature and light dynamics within diverse orchard settings.
COAST
Our Coastal recipient is Dr. Matthew Grieshop, the Director of the Grimm Family Center for Organic Production and Research at Cal Poly San Luis Obispo within the College of Agriculture, Food, and Environmental Sciences. With academic achievements including a B.S. from UC Santa Cruz, an M.S. in entomology from Montana State, and a PhD in entomology from Kansas State, Dr. Grieshop brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to his role. The award granted will be instrumental in supporting undergraduate and graduate student involvement in the dynamic and ongoing initiatives overseen by the Grimm Family Center, enhancing their educational journey and contributions to organic production and research.
DESERT
Our Desert recipient is Dr. Edward Franklin, the Associate Professor of Agriculture Education at the University of Arizona Department of Agricultural Education, Technology & Innovation. His education includes a B.S. from CSU Chico, an M.S. in Agriculture Education, and a PhD in Agriculture Education from Oklahoma State University. The awarded resources will be utilized for the acquisition of extra drones, batteries, and charging systems. This will enhance the implementation of a comprehensive drone programming initiative that utilizes Tello drones and Drone Blocks, advancing education and research in this critical field.
SCHOLARSHIP AWARDS
SOUTH VALLEY
In the South Valley, we recognize Curtis Lefler, from Hanford, CA, currently pursuing a Plant Science Major at CSU Fresno. Curtis has demonstrated commitment through internships, notably as a Research Assistant identifying ALS inhibitor and glyphosate resistance for waterhemp, and collaborating with UC Extension staff to test sugar levels using UV light. Passionate about crop advising, Curtis aspires to attain the CCA certification and hopes to obtain a MS Degree in an agronomy-related field.
NORTH VALLEY
In the North Valley, we recognize Matt Young, from Modesto, CA, currently pursuing a major in Agricultural Sustainability & Biology at CSU Stanislaus. Matt's dedication is evident through his internships and work experiences, collaborating with agronomists at Matrix Sciences DBA A&L Western Laboratory, specializing in irrigation matters, including the installation and maintenance of Telemetry systems. His goal is to complete the CCA certification by Fall 2023. He hopes to earn an M.S. degree in Soil Science and aspires to become a Certified Professional Agronomist (CPAg), showcasing his dedication to excellence in the field.
COAST
In the Coastal Region, we acknowledge Sarah Ramirez, from Morgan Hill, CA, presently enrolled at Cal Poly SLO with a major in Environmental Earth and Soil Sciences and a minor in Water Science (Policy Emphasis). Sarah's dedication is apparent through her internships and work experiences, notably as an Agronomy Intern for CSS Farms, focusing on potato farming at the Pasco, WA location. Currently gearing up for the CCA exam, Sarah is diligently utilizing study guides, presentations, and workshops provided by WRCCA. With her graduation scheduled for June, she eagerly anticipates venturing into the workforce and securing a role aligned with sustainable agriculture, reflecting her steadfast commitment to environmental and agricultural sustainability.
DESERT
In the Desert Region, we congratulate Isidro Lizarraga, from the Yuma, AZ area, currently pursuing Agriculture Systems Management at Arizona Western College (Yuma) as a Junior. Isidro's commitment is exemplified through his internships, including being a Lab Assistant Intern at Valent U.S.A. LLC, an education intern with the USDA/U of A, and a Research Assistant with the Xeric Croplands Project. Isidro's strategic plan involves cross-training in diverse agronomy-related roles to acquire practical knowledge and skills in crop advising. He hopes to attain a master's degree in agronomy, seeking to further enrich his expertise through experience and professional growth.
Congratulations to all the recipients of the 2023 Allan Romander Mentor & Scholarship Awards!