Supporting the Future: Scholarships for FFA Students Surpass $350,000

Thanks to the dedicated fundraising efforts of the Almond Leadership Program and generous industry members participating in the silent auction at The Almond Conference, the Almond Board of California (ABC) has once again made a significant impact on the future of agriculture by awarding more than $29,000 in scholarships to FFA students. 

Each year, ABC staff, including Associate Director of Industry Relations and Communications Jenny Nicolau, attend the California State FFA Conference in Sacramento to interview students who will benefit from these scholarships. Nicolau describes the event as an incredible experience, tailored to today’s youth. "There's literally 7,000 FFA students who flood downtown Sacramento from 368 chapters. When they do general sessions, it is like a concert — these students are so full of energy and excitement."

This year, 11 deserving students received scholarships, with ABC being the single largest contributor at the conference. Also, ABC is unique in awarding funds to every student interviewed. "There might be donors out there where they'll interview three students and select only one recipient,” Nicolau explained. “The Almond Board interviews every student and gives each of them funding." 

ABC Scholarships are awarded based on individual merit, financial need, and career ambitions in agriculture, with ABC's total FFA scholarships awarded now surpassing $350,000. 

Nicolau emphasized that these scholarships do not directly come from ABC’s budget, but rather from activities organized by participants in the Almond Leadership Program. "Every year, the Almond Leadership program has a goal of raising $25,000, usually achieved through the silent auction at The Almond Conference in December and annual golf tournaments,” Nicolau explained. 

The golf tournaments, including the longstanding event in Madera and the inaugural North Valley Golf Tournament scheduled for June 23 in Chico, have become instrumental in raising additional funds. "These golf tournaments are a great way for industry members to have fun and support FFA scholarships. Time spent on the greens really makes an impact for students wearing those blue jackets,” Nicolau said. 

Funds raised specifically support students pursuing agricultural studies at institutions ranging from junior colleges to four-year universities. Nicolau noted that recipients often have direct ties to almond farming, further ensuring that scholarships contribute directly back to the almond industry. 

Those interested in supporting future fundraising events can participate in upcoming golf tournaments or join the silent auction at The Almond Conference, which this year runs December 10-12, shifting from its usual Tuesday start to a Wednesday. 

"It's rewarding knowing these scholarships support students who will likely return and contribute to our industry," Nicolau concluded. To find out more about upcoming events and how to get involved, visit almonds.com/events.