Foundation for Environmental Agricultural Education Awards Scholarship
Fresno, CA, (AgPR), February 2, 2012 — The Foundation for Environmental Agricultural Education (the Foundation) supports the importance of education in the field of environmental agricultural education. The Foundation has awarded the 2011 Richard L. Jensen Memorial Scholarship of $2,000 to Adam Avedikian.
Adam is a Plant Science/Crop Production Major from the Jordan School of Agriculture Sciences and Technology at California State University, Fresno. He has recently started his crop consulting career as a Pest Control Advisor/Plant Health Specialist for Sunwest Fruit Company, Inc. in Parlier, CA. “Sunwest Fruit Company is a privately owned, vertically integrated farming operation. We control all aspects of production on over 9,000 acres. This requires a team of crop production professionals dedicated to our commitment to quality and consistency,” states Brian Fien, Ranch Manager for Sunwest Fruit. “Our industry anticipates the need for additional graduates like Adam. We applaud the support of organizations such as the Foundation who are providing this extra financial support and encouragement.”
The Foundation has been awarding scholarships and fellowships to deserving students since 1991. “As the world’s population continues to grow, the need for environmentally safe and productive scientific crop advances will continue to be a priority. We appreciate the Foundation’s support and encouragement for the development of a skilled and educated pool of consultants and researchers,” states Dr. Charles Boyer, Dean of the Jordan School of Agriculture Sciences and Technology.
“Young college students are not aware of the many career opportunities available in agriculture and supporting industries,” states James Todd, Chair of the Jenson Scholarship Committee and owner of Todd Ag Consulting, LLC in Plainview, TX. Professional crop management practitioners provide a full range of services supporting integrated crop and farm management programs. The primary mission of these professionals is implementing scientific and technological advances to enhance environmental sustainability and profitability in the production of food and fiber around the world. “Encouraging young people to explore the career opportunities available and supporting their academic efforts in pursuit of agriculture related degrees is a key component of our outreach,” states Chair Todd.
The Foundation for Environmental Agricultural Education was established in 1991 by the National Alliance of Independent Crop Consultants. The mission of the Foundation is “to catalyze innovative education and training for current and future professional crop management practitioners”, including contract researchers, crop consultants, and quality assurance officers. NAICC, founded in 1978, is the national society of agricultural professionals who provide research and advisory services to clients. The 500+ members work from bases in 40 states and several foreign countries providing expertise in the production of crops grown around the world.
