October 16, 2024 - Napa Valley Community Foundation (NVCF), in partnership with the Napa Valley Farmworker Foundation, is thrilled to announce and congratulate Ana Ortega, the 2024 recipient of El Futuro Educational Scholarship, established through a generous partnership with the Moulds Family. This prestigious scholarship, created in memory of the Foundation’s beloved past president, Steve Moulds, honors his legacy by fostering educational opportunities for future leaders in Napa’s wine industry.
Ana Ortega, the 2024 recipient of El Futuro Educational Scholarship
El Futuro Educational Scholarship supports Napa County residents pursuing an associate degree in viticulture and/or enology at Napa Valley College or Santa Rosa Junior College. It recognizes students who demonstrate remarkable drive and ambition in their community, academics, or work.
Ana Ortega, this year’s deserving recipient, embodies the very spirit of dedication and perseverance that the scholarship seeks to uplift. As the daughter of immigrant parents, Ana is the first in her family to pursue education beyond elementary school. Her passion for the wine industry was ignited when she participated in the Napa Valley Farmworker Foundation’s Fields of Opportunity Summer Mentor Program, where she discovered her love for viticulture. Since then, Ana has built an impressive career, working with Gallo Vineyards, Rios Farming Co., and most recently with Vino Farms LLC, all while taking courses at Napa Valley College.
With her sights set on the future, Ana is now preparing to transfer to UC Davis next year, where she will major in Viticulture and Enology, continuing her journey in the field she loves. This scholarship will provide her with critical financial support for up to three years, empowering her to complete her degree and advance in the wine industry.
“It’s nice to know there are people who care and are there as a support system,” Ana shared. “Since I’m an only child, sometimes I feel like I have no one to teach me or share about these resources. It was a huge relief to know that I’ll be getting help to pay for my school.”
“Steve believed in the transformative power of education, and Ana Ortega’s story is a beautiful reflection of the impact he hoped to make on future generations of Napa’s wine industry leaders,” commented Sonya DeLuca, Executive Director of the Napa Valley Farmworker Foundation.
Lupe Reyes, NVCF’s Director of Grants and Scholarships, added, “Ana’s determination and passion are exactly why we’re so grateful that El Futuro Educational Scholarship exists. We are committed to helping students like her achieve their educational goals and contribute to Napa Valley’s agricultural heritage in meaningful ways.”
El Futuro Educational Scholarship not only supports the dreams of students like Ana, but also strengthens the Napa Valley wine industry by investing in the next generation of skilled and passionate leaders.
“It has been an honor to work with the Napa Valley Farmworker Foundation and the Napa Valley Community Foundation to help young people achieve their dreams of access to higher education,” shared Steve’s wife Betsy Moulds of Moulds Family Vineyard.
If you believe in the power of education to transform lives and want to support local youth with a passion for the wine industry, we invite you to join us by contributing to El Futuro Scholarship fund. Your support will help students like Ana achieve their dreams and create a brighter future for the Napa Valley community.
Please find more details about El Futuro Educational Scholarship linked here, and for media inquiries please contact Caitlin Childs, Senior Director of Communications for NVCF caitlin@napavalleycf.org 707-597-9850.
About Napa Valley Community Foundation
Napa Valley Community Foundation works side-by-side with local donors and nonprofits to tackle the most important challenges the Valley faces. Now celebrating 30 years of service to the community, the Foundation has distributed more than $106 million in grants to improve the quality of life for residents of the region, and currently serves as the philanthropic partner to thousands of individuals, families, nonprofit agencies and corporations in Napa Valley and beyond. To learn more, visit napavalleycf.org.
About the Napa Valley Farmworker Foundation
The Napa Valley Farmworker Foundation, founded by the Napa Valley Grapegrowers in 2011, supports and promotes Napa Valley’s vineyard workers through education and professional development. It is the first organization of its kind in the United States, providing life-changing educational opportunities, advanced training programs, leadership and management classes, and adult literacy programs. Since its inception, the Napa Valley Farmworker Foundation has provided education and professional development opportunities to over 28,000 vineyard workers and their families. For more information about the Napa Valley Farmworker Foundation, visit www.farmworkerfoundation.organd follow on Facebook & Instagram.