5915 El Camino Real, Atascadero, California, United States of America, 93422
“Every experience in my academic journey starts with a single fact: I am the first in my family to continue my education.”— Denise, Juan Nevarez Memorial Scholar, Yale University
First-generation college students like Denise don’t just pack up and head to school—they carry big dreams, heavy responsibilities, and the quiet courage to be the first.
They often navigate college on their own, juggling tight budgets, unfamiliar systems, and the emotional challenge of leaving home. But when someone believes in them, everything changes.
The Juan Nevarez Memorial Scholarship was created to do exactly that—by offering financial support and mentorship to the children of vineyard and winery workers. It’s not just a scholarship; it’s a bridge to a better future. And it's working: our scholars are graduating, thriving, and giving back to their communities.
---
Denise's Journey to Yale
As the first in her family to attend college, Denise has earned top honors and maintained a stellar GPA. Now, as a student in Yale's prestigious Ethics, Politics, and Economics program, Denise is focusing on modern public policy strategies with a goal to advocate for underrepresented communities.
This summer, she’ll be immersing herself in a six-week cultural and language program in Spain, before seeking internships with California State representatives and non-profits, eager to gain hands-on experience in public service and community impact.
Denise will return to Yale in the fall, where she is excelling academically, embracing challenging coursework, and adjusting to New England’s winter. Outside the classroom, she’s exploring the region, hosting friends from home, and soaking in everything her Ivy League experience has to offer. With her passion for change and her commitment to public service, Denise is on a path to make a lasting impact!
---
As we kick off fundraising for the new school year, we’re inviting you to be part of this story.
Your generosity doesn’t just open doors—it helps students walk through them with confidence.
🍇 Support the next generation of scholars and leaders.
Every gift, no matter the size, makes a difference.
Learn More | Invest in the Next Generation
Vineyard Team scholarship Juan Nevarez Memorial Scholarship college higher education first generation vineyard winery California Wine Industry Yale
What started as a small grower group’s desire to educate and guide themselves towards sustainable winegrowing practices has become Vineyard Team, an internationally recognized leader in the sustainability movement.
Since 1994, the 501(c)-3 non-profit has served its membership of farmers, winemakers, and industry partners by creating an educational network with the leadership of its staff and board of directors to help growers save resources and money, all while cultivating valuable relationships.
Vineyard Team will identify and promote the most environmentally safe, viticulturally and economically sustainable farming methods while maintaining or improving the quality and flavor of wine grapes.
The Team will be a model for wine grape growers and will promote the public trust of stewardship for natural resources.
Demonstration projects help growers learn about new management techniques, successfully adopt new practices, and minimize risk.
Staff, technical advisors (University of California Cooperative Extension/university professors), and growers collaborate to implement specific practices and share the results with the winegrowing community.
Click here to read more about the Demonstration Projects Vineyard Team has been involved with.
Title | Name | Phone | Extension | |
---|---|---|---|---|
Executive Director | Beth Vukmanic | beth@vineyardteam.org | 805-464-4851 | |
Outreach & Education Coordinator | Hayli Macober | hayli@vineyardteam.org | 805-464-4849 | |
SIP Certified Coordinator | Whitney Brownie | whitney@vineyardteam.org | 805-464-4850 |
Locations | Address | State | Country | Zip Code |
---|---|---|---|---|
Vineyard Team | 5915 El Camino Real, Atascadero | California | United States of America | 93422 |