March 4, 2026 (California) — Vineyard Team is proud to announce that applications are open for the Juan Nevarez Memorial Scholarship, a community-powered program that supports the children of California’s vineyard and winery workers. Applications are accepted through March 31, 2026.
The scholarship offers multi-year financial support and one-on-one mentorship to students, 98 percent of which are first-generation college students. Eligible applicants are California residents who are high school seniors or graduates, have not yet attended college, plan to enroll full-time, and have a parent or guardian employed or contracted by the wine industry. Eligible applicants are California residents who are high school seniors or graduates, have not yet attended college, plan to enroll full-time, and have a parent or guardian employed or contracted by the wine industry.
More Than Just Financial Aid
This Scholarship was created to honor the legacy of Juan Nevarez, a longtime vineyard leader on California’s Central Coast. The program continues his vision by ensuring students are supported academically, professionally, and personally.
This holistic approach delivers results. Many recipients go on to earn advanced degrees and build careers in wine, education, law, and other fields that strengthen their communities.
Kristal, who joined the cohort in 2023, shares “I was struggling to keep up in my history class, but the strategies I learned from [mentor] Alex’s newsletter have been a game changer. My notes are more organized, and studying feels less overwhelming.”
Mentorship gives students tools to thrive—on campus and beyond.
Scholar Spotlight: Alberto
Growing up in the small town of Shandon, California, Alberto was often told that success wasn’t in reach. But working in the vineyards alongside his father taught him the value of persistence and inspired him to chart a different path.
After graduating high school with honors, Alberto earned a welding certificate at Cuesta College while interning with a vineyard management company. That experience sparked a passion for viticulture, leading him to Fresno State, where he earned his bachelor’s degree with support from the Juan Nevarez Memorial Scholarship.
Now pursuing his master’s in viticulture, Alberto recently reached another major milestone: presenting his thesis, Sulfur Application Frequency Effects on Yield and Anthocyanins in Cabernet Sauvignon, at the 2025 Sustainable Ag Expo.
Join Us in Supporting the Next Generation
The Juan Nevarez Memorial Scholarship is powered by the generosity of individuals and businesses who believe that education transforms lives.
This year’s fundraising goal of $120,000 will provide financial support and mentorship to even more deserving students in vineyard and winery families.
Your support goes beyond tuition. It creates opportunities, strengthens families, and invests in a more inclusive future for the wine industry and the communities it touches.
To donate, learn more, or apply, visit www.vineyardteam.org/scholarship.
In partnership with Must! Charities.
About Vineyard Team
Arising from growers’ interest to educate and guide themselves towards sustainable winegrowing practices, Vineyard Team has become an internationally recognized leader in the sustainability movement since 1994.
