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.
Ashley Beazer
Graduate student at Brigham Young University, Salt Lake City, Utah
“I currently research water-conserving irrigation and drought-tolerant turfgrass for Utah’s semi-arid environment. More water-wise turf options may become available in Utah and regions with similar climates because of this research. It is exciting to help change the world by promoting beautiful, responsible landscapes while preserving one of our most precious resources, water. After completing my formal education, I plan to work in the irrigation/water conservation and landscape industry.”
Joseph Daniels
Undergraduate student at Brigham Young University, Salt Lake City, Utah
“My mind opened to the field of irrigation after my principles of irrigation class. As I’ve learned more about the intricacies of modern systems and how they allow us to not only conserve water but produce the most beautiful landscapes while doing so the more I want to play a role in its future. I look forward to pursuing a career in Irrigation and making the world a more beautiful place.”
Gabrielle Fernandez
Undergraduate student at Cuyahoga Community College, Cleveland, Ohio
“My introduction to irrigation and drainage was very eye opening and helped tie together the rest of my horticulture education. Especially because I live in an area with a wide network of water sheds, it’s very important to me that my work going forward is water-conscious. I aspire to apply these skills and knowledge to designing and maintaining green infrastructure in our cities.”
Baylee Gagnier
Undergraduate student at CT State Community College Three Rivers, Norwich, Connecticut
“When I chose my path in higher education, I made sure to pick a field that would benefit both our environment and society. The one thing everyone needs is to eat, which cannot be done without a proper irrigation system. I have always wanted to contribute to a cause greater than myself, and this field is where I see myself. This fall I am excited to pursue my bachelors degree in Water Resources at the University of Connecticut, as I transfer there with my Associates in Environmental Engineering and Technology from Three Rivers Community College.”
Nathan Hawks
Undergraduate student at Michigan State University, East Lansing, Michigan
“I am currently enrolled in the Landscape and Nursery Management program at Michigan State University. I own and operate my own business that I started when I was just 12 years old, now I am running a crew of five focusing on landscape maintenance and lawn installation. I took an irrigation class and lab this year that taught me much of what is needed to design, install and maintain a system. This summer I am interning with a landscape company in Grand Rapids, Michigan, exposing me further into irrigation. I am planning to incorporate irrigation install and maintenance into my business in the next year!”
Lauren Kasel
Undergraduate student at Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas
“My understanding of irrigation stems from my landscape architecture undergraduate studies, which includes construction courses. I believe in the importance of irrigation for sustaining the environments we design. Having a deep understanding of irrigation systems equips me to ensure that my design is everlasting. In my future career as a landscape architect, I foresee completing irrigation plans in project construction phases and continuing to specialize in this field for as long as I’m a designer!”
Luis Mazariegos
Undergraduate student at College of DuPage, Glen Ellyn, Illinois
“I am passionate about irrigation because it is the lifeblood of sustainable agriculture, ensuring efficient water use and healthy crops. My studies in this field aim to develop innovative irrigation solutions that conserve water and enhance food security. In the future, I plan to lead projects that implement advanced irrigation technologies to support resilient and sustainable farming practices globally.”
Jake Miller
Undergraduate student at Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio
“Throughout my studies in irrigation and working in the field, learning the ins and outs of golf course irrigation has been intriguing. I am currently interning at Inverness Club in Toledo, Ohio. During my time here, they are installing a new irrigation system. Being able to see this process done step by step and be a part of it is truly a unique experience. Learning how to irrigate a golf course properly can help improve turf health, playing conditions and course aesthetics. Most importantly, proper irrigation practices can lead to conserving more water. As I continue this incredible journey in the turf profession, learning and working for the right people is key to helping me reach my goal of becoming a golf course superintendent.”
Anthony Scarpitti
Undergraduate student at Oklahoma State University, Stillwater, Oklahoma
“My future in irrigation is a promising one. As a small landscaping firm’s business owner who decided to continue his education, I have been putting the skills I acquired in my irrigation class this past spring semester to work! I have been extremely busy last couple of weeks on summer break working on my normal work and now irrigation as well. So my jobs already doubled just from being intrigued by irrigation.”
