The Apple Hill Growers Association is excited to announce the recipients of the 2021 Norma Brubaker Scholarship, which was created to support students who participate in agriculture-related activities in high school and intend to pursue a career in an agriculture-related field after graduation.
El Dorado High School seniors Tessa and Rebecca were each awarded $1500 in a ceremony at the school on May 5, 2021. The scholarship is named for Norma Brubaker, a passionate volunteer who was the first employee of the Apple Hill Growers Association. Since 1984, the Growers have awarded the annual Norma Brubaker Scholarships, in partnership with the Brubaker Family.
Tessa has received many academic awards and honors, including the Hope for America Award from Placerville Kiwanis and Human Highlights Recognition from EDHS. In addition to scholastic excellence, Tessa is a member of the EDHS swim and water polo teams, has had a leading role in the school’s drama productions and has volunteered to build homes for families in need in Mexico with Federated Church. She will be attending an out of state university, pursing a degree in Hospitality Business Management.
Rebecca maintains a 4.05 GPA and, as a member of the Natural Resources Club, has participated in the Forestry Challenge and Generation Green Club. She has worked at the East Campus Orchard, coordinating fundraising events and working to bring sustainability practices to the campus. During her senior year, she designed a scientific inquiry on the influence of cover crops on soil chemistry and crop health. Rebecca will be attending an out of state university pursuing a major in Environmental Studies with a Minor in Biology or Communications.
“We are proud of Tessa and Rebecca and their passion for agriculture and the environment – core values of the Apple Hill Growers Association,” said Chris Delfino of Delfino Farms and President of the Apple Hill Growers Association. “The farming and agriculture industries need more young people to get involved and our organization is proud to support future leaders in the field.”