Crafting Our Agricultural Future, One Beer at a Time
Local breweries and distilleries generously donated funds to help launch our scholarship program. Their support helps turn students’ dreams into reality by allowing them to pursue education in agriculture, culinary arts, and food science. Their contributions truly nourish dreams and cultivate futures.
Students pursuing education and careers in agriculture, culinary arts, and/or food science applied for the scholarships, and the top applicants were selected by the Totally Local VC Scholarship Committee.
Making a Dream Come True
For years, the team at Totally Local VC dreamed of creating an agricultural scholarship program. Then Mike Reinwald from the Oakview Group had a brilliant idea that made us realize that this dream could become a reality – and we were thrilled!
Mike’s company runs all the food and drink concessions at the Ventura County Fairgrounds. His idea? Create a locally-sourced beer garden using the Totally Local VC brand as the name and host. Mike knew our brand is highly respected in the community and signifies something that’s truly local and high-quality. Plus, we’ve always partnered with local farmers, chefs, purveyors, and organizations like the Fairgrounds.
This opportunity was a win-win. It helped raise funds for our new Totally Local VC Agricultural Education Scholarship Fund while showcasing Ventura County’s awesome craft brew scene – all while nurturing future farmers and chefs!
The Scholarship Awards
The scholarship committee faced a difficult task in selecting the recipients, as they received applications from many remarkable students whose passion and dedication were displayed in each and every application.
In the face of such an impressive applicant pool, the committee made the inspired decision to award not one, but two scholarships this year: a $5,000 award as originally planned, then adding a second $1,000 award, doubling the opportunity for students to thrive.
The scholarship donations will help to transform students’ potential into reality. Totally Local VC, the Ventura County Fair, Oakview Group, and the local brewers have come together to create opportunities and enrich the community, one scholar at a time.
The first Totally Local VC scholarship award ceremony was held on August 9, 2024, during the Ventura County Fair in the Agricultural Building. County Supervisor Matt LaVere was on hand to congratulate the recipients.
The student recipients of the 2024 Totally Local VC Agricultural Education Scholarships
Oliver DeLeon – $1,000
Educational Goal: BioResource and Agricultural Engineering
Career Goal: Sustainable Farming
Oliver DeLeon has been a dedicated student throughout his education. He took Environmental Sciences Capstone courses at Ventura High School, gaining valuable knowledge and maintained a 3.5 GPA. But Oliver didn’t just study theory – he also got hands-on experience working at Rincon Insectaries, where he learned about biological pest control production and shipments for the farming and residential industries. Outside the classroom, Oliver is an active volunteer in the community, even lending a hand at our very own Totally Local VC Dinner Series.
With his sights set on the future, he plans to study BioResource and Agricultural Engineering in college. Oliver also aims to get involved with the Agribusiness Management/National Agri-Marketing Association Club to further his passion for sustainable farming practices.
We have no doubt this hard-working student will excel in college career.
Laird Pidduck – $5,000
Educational Goal: Animal Science Degree
Career Goal: Cattle Rancher/Owner
Laird Pidduck is a remarkable young individual whose dedication to agriculture runs deep. From a young age, he has been an active and involved member of 4H and FFA, immersing himself in the world of farming and ranching.
But Laird’s experience goes far beyond just participation – he has worked hands-on as a ranch hand, gaining invaluable practical skills. His talents have been recognized through prestigious awards in the California Champions Competition for ranch riding and ranch trail riding.
Impressively, Laird didn’t just work on other ranches, he helped establish his very own family cattle company. And he did all this while maintaining an outstanding 4.4 grade point average, showcasing his incredible work ethic.
Laird is also an esteemed member of the Ventura County Cattlemen’s Association. Those who know him describe him as a true “dedicated cowboy” with an unwavering passion for his craft.
There is no doubt that throughout his college studies in Animal Science and beyond, Laird will continue to achieve great things, helping reshape the future of ranching through his expertise and innovative mindset.
Investing in the Next Crop for Our Agricultural Future
The inaugural Totally Local VC Agricultural Scholarships have empowered remarkable students like Oliver and Laird to cultivate their dreams. But this is just the first crop – with your help, many more aspiring agricultural leaders can bloom. Donate now to the scholarship fund and play a vital role in nurturing Ventura County’s next generation of farmers, ranchers, chefs, and food scientists. An investment today ensures a bountiful agricultural legacy tomorrow.
Investing in the Next Crop for Our Agricultural Future
The inaugural Totally Local VC Agricultural Scholarships have empowered remarkable students like Oliver and Laird to cultivate their dreams. But this is just the first crop – with your help, many more aspiring agricultural leaders can bloom. Donate now to the scholarship fund and play a vital role in nurturing Ventura County’s next generation of farmers, ranchers, chefs, and food scientists. An investment today ensures a bountiful agricultural legacy tomorrow.
Raising A Glass To Our Supporters
Totally Local VC would like to extend our sincere gratitude to those who made these agricultural scholarships possible through their vision, generosity and support
