Washington Apple Education Foundation Honors 2025 Volunteer of Year Award Recipients

WENATCHEE, Wash. — The Washington Apple Education Foundation (WAEF) has recognized three outstanding honorees for their exceptional service and dedication to the foundation’s mission of supporting students from Washington’s tree fruit industry families.

Each year, WAEF celebrates the more than 200 volunteers who contribute time, expertise and care to help students achieve their educational and career goals. This November, as part of the foundation’s annual Volunteer Appreciation Month, WAEF is recognizing the 2025 Volunteer of the Year, Alumni Volunteer of the Year and Organization Volunteer of the Year.

Stephanie Rojas, human resources manager at Taggares Fruit Company in Pasco, was named Volunteer of the Year. Since 2020, Rojas has shared her insight and expertise with WAEF students through multiple avenues. This year, she has served on the WAEF Student Success Committee, helping ensure programs align with industry needs; led professional development workshops for students; and coordinated Taggares Fruit Company’s involvement with WAEF, including financial support and care packages. Her leadership and encouragement have helped students gain confidence as they prepare for their careers.

Beatriz Garibay, a WAEF graduate from East Wenatchee, received the Alumni Volunteer of the Year award. Garibay’s involvement with WAEF quickly evolved from engaged student to active donor and volunteer, bringing valuable perspective as a recent college graduate. She invests in students by personally funding scholarships, serving on the Scholarship Selection and Student Success committees, and helping shape programs that support students as they move from college to career.

Northwest Wholesale, headquartered in East Wenatchee, was honored as Volunteer Organization of the Year for its comprehensive support of WAEF this year. The company and its employees contribute through board and committee leadership, scholarship funding, student care packages and hands-on help at events, reflecting the generosity and teamwork that define the tree fruit industry.

“Volunteers are the heart of WAEF,” said Tyler Price, chairman of the WAEF board of directors. “Their dedication makes it possible for us to provide financial assistance, mentorship and career readiness support to hundreds of students each year. Beyond direct student support, our volunteers share valuable insight and guidance that helps shape our programs and priorities. We are so grateful for the individuals and companies that lead with generosity and belief in our mission.”

In 2025, WAEF will provide more than $1 million in scholarships to students from tree fruit industry families, along with year-round support to help them complete their degrees and prepare for careers in the communities they call home.

For more information about WAEF’s programs or to learn how to volunteer, visit www.waef.org.