Shinoda trustees award nearly $19,000 in horticulture education scholarships

Five students from universities around the country received between $1,200 and $3,500 each.


San Luis Obispo, Calif. – The Shinoda Foundation once again recognized horticulture’s top students with six scholarships, plus grants to colleges and universities, totaling nearly $19,000.

“These students represent horticulture’s best and brightest,” says Bob Otsuka, president of the Foundation. “It’s our industry’s duty to grow our future, and we’re proud to play a small role.”

Students from horticulture programs across the nation can apply for the scholarships, with awards based on carefully reviewed criteria including academics, work experience, career goals, extracurricular activities and need.

2016-17 Shinoda Foundation Scholarship winners include:

  • Lauren Behrmann, Senior, Texas Tech University, $1,200
  • Erin Hsu, Junior, University of California, Davis, $3,500
  • Mary Lewis, Senior, University of Georgia, $1,200
  • Jaclyn Nelson, Junior, University of Nebraska, Lincoln, $2,500
  • Gage Willey, Junior, California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo, $2,500

In addition, Gage Willey received the California Floral Council Scholarship, eligible only to applicants residing in California, in the amount of $1,000.

Since 1965, The Shinoda Foundation has awarded more than $826,250 in scholarships to 673 students.