San Luis Obispo, Calif. – Kellie Walters of Iowa State University has been named the recipient of the prestigious Shinoda Scholar of the Year award for 2013-14.
“Students like Kellie represent the true potential of horticulture’s growth,” says Paul Ecke III, president of the Shinoda Foundation. “The Shinoda Scholar of the Year award recognizes the unique accomplishments and abilities that she and students like her bring to our industry.”
After graduating with a horticulture degree from Iowa State University, Kellie plans to pursue a career in commercial greenhouse floriculture production, with a goal of advancing to a greenhouse management position.
“Kellie grew up on a farm and has developed an excellent work ethic,” a teacher said of the 20-year-old junior. “She is a respectful, enthusiastic and motivated young woman who will accomplish much during her professional career.”
In addition to her horticulture academic studies, Kellie continues to expand her knowledge and education, completing several internships, including one in the U.S. Virgin Islands. She has received a number of scholarships and awards; is active in multiple extracurricular activities such as Pi Alpha Xi, the Mid American Collegiate Horticulture Society and Gamma Sigma Delta; and is president of the Iowa State University Horticulture Club.
About the Joseph Shinoda Memorial Scholarship Foundation
The Shinoda Foundation was established in 1964 under the auspices of the California State Florists’ Association in memory of the late Joseph Shinoda, a highly regarded pioneer of that state’s floral industry. The foundation’s purpose is to encourage educational opportunities for young people interested in entering the industry. Incorporated as a separate entity in 1972, the foundation has awarded scholarships valued at more than $760,000 to nearly 650 undergraduate floriculture students since 1965.
Information about applications for the Shinoda Foundation’s scholarships is sent each January to horticulture and floriculture departments at universities across the nation. Applications are available on the foundation’s website and accepted from January until March 30 each year.
Information about making contributions to the foundation or about its scholarship program can be obtained from its website, www.shinodascholarship.org, or by writing to: Joseph Shinoda Memorial Scholarship Foundation Inc., 962 Pecho St., Morro Bay, CA 93442, or Pat Broering at pbroerin@gmail.com.
Source: Joseph Shinoda Memorial Scholarship Foundation