Celebrating 2025 Alumni Volunteer of the Year: Beatriz Garibay

November is Volunteer Appreciation Month at WAEF, a time when we pause to celebrate the incredible people who make our mission possible. Each year, over 200 volunteers help students from tree fruit industry families reach their educational and career goals. Together, they make a remarkable impact.

The Impact of Volunteers

Our volunteers are the heart of WAEF. Through their dedication, they:

• • Empower Students: Review hundreds of scholarship applications, conduct renewal interviews, and provide mentorship that helps students persist through graduation.

  • Prepare Students for Impact in Our Communities: Lead professional development workshops, review résumés, conduct mock interviews, and host job shadows and career tours that connect classroom learning to real-world leadership.

  • Build Connection and Belonging: Send over 600 care packages annually, host networking events, and serve at gatherings like our scholarship luncheons—creating spaces where students, donors, and industry professionals come together.

  • Strengthen WAEF’s Foundation: Serve on our board of directors and committees, champion fundraising events such as our golf tournaments, open doors to new partnerships, and help ensure the financial resources that keep student opportunities growing.

Their service is a reminder that behind every WAEF student success story is a network of volunteers cheering them on.

Honoring Beatriz Garibay

Each November, we also recognize individuals who go above and beyond. This year, we’re proud to celebrate Beatriz Garibay as our Alumni Volunteer of the Year.

Beatriz’s connection with WAEF didn’t end at graduation—it grew stronger.

• Paying it forward. Soon after college, Beatriz began personally funding a scholarship to support another first-generation student.

• Championing new voices. As a member of the Scholarship Selection Committee, she brings her perspective as a recent graduate to the process of selecting and supporting new recipients.

• Shaping student success. As an inaugural member of our Student Success Committee, Beatriz helps design programming that equips students for life beyond college.

• Turning ideas into action. This summer, she inspired and organized a student-led panel preparing college seniors for the transition to the workforce—a reflection of her commitment to practical, student-centered support.

Beatriz embodies the spirit of service, generosity, and connection that define WAEF. Her leadership continues to strengthen the bridge between our alumni and current students.

Our thanks to Beatriz for making a lasting difference!