The Irrigation Association is proud to announce the 12 recipients of the 2025 Anthony W. “Tony” LaFetra Scholarship Program, sponsored by Rain Bird. These students are not just pursuing careers in irrigation — they are shaping the future of water stewardship, sustainability and irrigation innovation.
This year’s recipients represent a diverse group of passionate students from colleges and universities across the United States enrolled in associate to graduate programs with a focus on irrigation. Scholarships ranging from $1,500 to $3,000 were awarded to students who have demonstrated a commitment to water stewardship and the essential role of irrigated landscapes and agriculture in sustaining life and enhancing communities.
Beyond their academic achievements, these students are innovators, advocates and future leaders.
Read more about the recipients at irrigation.org/scholarship-recipients or by scanning the QR code on this page. Learn about what drives their purpose and passion for a career in irrigation and water resource management.
Congratulations to these recipients of the 2025 Anthony W. “Tony” LaFetra Scholarship Program:
Tatiana Avila, California Polytechnic State University
Natalia Panova, Las Positas College
Gracie Chavez, California Polytechnic University, San Luis Obispo
Andrick Delgadillo, Schreiner University
Patrick McLoughlin, University of Florida
Jade Meichtry, California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo
Jesse O’Brien, Cuyahoga Community College
Andres Orozco, Foothill College
Melanie Orozco Gonzalez, California Polytechnic University, San Luis Obispo
Avery Pope, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign
Alejandro Ramirez, University of California, Davis
Tyler Stewart, Brigham Young University
“These students represent some of the best of what’s ahead for irrigation professionals,” says IA CEO Natasha Rankin. “They’re storytellers, innovators and changemakers, bringing passion and a clear understanding of how sustainable irrigation connects to community impact. Supporting their education ensures we’re growing leaders who will shape the next era of water use and stewardship.”
