WAEF Scholarships - Jerry Haak Memorial Grant

WAEF Scholarships - Jerry Haak Memorial Grant

Status: ACTIVE
Funder: Washington Apple Education Foundation
Last Updated: January 16, 2026

Summary

The WAEF Scholarships, supported by the Washington Apple Education Foundation, provide vital financial assistance to over 300 students pursuing degrees related to the tree fruit industry. This year, more than $1 million has been awarded, benefiting those with ties to apple, cherry, or pear orchards. The Jerry Haak Memorial Scholarship specifically honors a leader in the field, encouraging candidates from agricultural backgrounds to further their education and careers in the industry.

Overview

WAEF Scholarships The Washington Apple Education Foundation (WAEF) is supporting over 300 students this year with new and renewing scholarships. Funding for the awards was raised through voluntary contributions from members of the tree fruit industry and its suppliers and service providers. In total, this year’s scholarship recipients are receiving over $1 million in educational awards. Most students receiving WAEF scholarships share a common link of parent employment in the tree fruit industry. WAEF scholarship recipients are pursuing a wide variety of degrees and career paths. Awards may be used by their recipients at accredited two-year colleges, four-year public and private universities and technical/vocational colleges. Individual scholarships may have more specific qualifications. Jerry Haak Memorial This scholarship honors the memory of tree fruit industry leader Jerry Haak. Jerry was a passionate orchardist known for his innovative approach to farming and willingness to share new techniques and discoveries. Candidates for this scholarship are men and women raised in families involved in apple, cherry and/or pear orchards. Applicants should be preparing to work in the tree fruit industry by pursuing an agriculture related degree.

Eligibility

You can learn more about this opportunity by visiting the funder's website. Current college students raised in families with direct ties to Washington’s tree fruit industry are eligible to apply. The Washington tree fruit industry includes apple, cherry, or pear orchards, warehouses, and affiliated businesses. Ties to the industry include personal or partner/guardian employment in the tree fruit industry, personal or parent/guardian ownership of an apple, cherry, or pear orchard or warehouse, or personal or parent/guardian employment in a company directly servicing the tree fruit industry. Employment must be current and have been ongoing for a minimum of 12 consecutive months.