The Irrigation Association (IA) announced the eight recipients of the 2026 Anthony W. “Tony” LaFetra Scholarship Program, sponsored by Rain Bird. These students are not only pursuing careers in irrigation, they are helping shape the future of water stewardship, sustainability and irrigation innovation.
This year’s recipients represent a diverse group of students from colleges and universities across the United States enrolled in programs focused on irrigation, water management, agriculture, turfgrass science and related fields. Scholarships ranging from $2,500 to $5,000 were awarded to students who have demonstrated a commitment to sustainability, stewardship and the wise use of water.
“Rain Bird is proud to support these outstanding students through the Anthony W. ‘Tony’ LaFetra Scholarship Program,” said Michael Roberts, vice president of technology and innovation at Rain Bird and 2026 president of the Irrigation Association. “We look forward to seeing the impact they will make as future leaders in irrigation and water stewardship.”
Andrew Fleet was recognized as one of this year’s Anthony W. “Tony” LaFetra Scholars, a distinction awarded to the program’s top recipients. A graduate student at Oklahoma State University, Fleet plans to pursue research focused on advanced filtration, treatment and water recycling technologies for irrigation and drinking water.
Abraham Salomon, a doctoral student at the University of Nebraska–Lincoln, was also recognized as a 2026 Anthony W. “Tony” LaFetra Scholar. Salomon’s work focuses on agricultural water and soil management research, with an emphasis on improving irrigation efficiency and supporting producers through practical, research-based solutions.
Congratulations to these recipients of the 2026 Anthony W. “Tony” LaFetra Scholarship Program:
- Andrew Fleet — Oklahoma State University, Anthony W. “Tony” LaFetra Scholar
- Abraham Salomon — University of Nebraska–Lincoln, Anthony W. “Tony” LaFetra Scholar
- Tyler Judkins — Las Positas College
- Carter Peters — Kansas State University
- Salvador Cabrera — Arizona Western College
- Arlunya Sisomvang — University of California, Davis
- Harmony Hulet — College of Idaho
- Caleb VanBooven — Kansas State University
“These students represent the future of the irrigation industry and the next generation of leaders who will help address some of the most important water challenges facing our communities and agricultural systems,” said IA CEO Natasha Rankin. “Their passion for innovation, research and stewardship demonstrates the talent and dedication needed to advance efficient water management and ensure a more sustainable future. We are proud to support their educational journeys and look forward to the contributions they will make throughout their careers.”