Shinoda Scholarship Foundation announces 2016-17 scholarship winners

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,” said 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 bestowed based on carefully reviewed criteria including academics, work experience, career goals, extracurricular activities and need.

The 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, 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.