The tree fruit industry has always moved through cycles: years of growth, years of challenge, and constant adaptation in between. Robin Hansen, COO of Columbia Fruit Packers and a fourth‑generation member of the tree fruit community, understands those cycles deeply. Robin grew up in the orchards and the warehouse, shaped by...
Washington’s tree fruit industry is built by hardworking, driven farmers—families whose pride comes from feeding the world while sustaining their communities. Lupe Villasenor understands that work at its roots. Lupe grew up alongside her family in orchards, spending her early years picking fruit and driving tractor. Those experiences shaped her deep...
Keith Veselka is widely respected across Washington’s tree fruit industry as a thoughtful leader and an early advocate for using technology to strengthen on-farm decision making. As an owner at NWFM, he oversees orchard properties throughout the state on behalf of institutional investors, pension funds, and private individuals, producing apples,...
Every January at the Washington Apple Education Foundation, something quietly important happens for our students and the community that supports them. While scholarships are often associated with the excitement of college acceptance letters and first-year awards, WAEF turns its attention to a different moment in a student’s journey: the long...
Earlier this week, the WAEF Board of Directors gathered in Ellensburg for a full-day retreat focused on one central purpose: ensuring the foundation is positioned to serve students, families, and the tree fruit industry well into the future. In a period marked by economic headwinds and uncertainty across the industry,...
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...
At WAEF, we’re fortunate to partner with companies that see giving back as part of who they are. This year, one team stood out for showing up in every way—through leadership, service, and a deep belief in what education can do for families and communities. We’re proud to recognize Northwest Wholesale...
November is Volunteer Appreciation Month at WAEF — a time to celebrate the people whose commitment and care make our mission possible. This year, we’re proud to recognize someone whose leadership, energy, and heart for students shine through in everything she does. Congratulations to Stephanie Rojas, our Volunteer of the Year!...
This fall feels especially energizing at WAEF as we welcome two remarkable women to our team — Jessica Lara and Joanna Sanchez. Each brings a unique story and deep passion for helping students reach their dreams. Jessica joins WAEF as our new Student Success Director. With more than a decade of...
This fall, more than 300 students from tree fruit industry families are starting college with WAEF scholarships—over $1 million invested in their education. The majority of our recipients are the first in their families to attend college. This year, over 70% hold that distinction. Their stories reflect the grit, determination, and...
