Plant Science Student Receives OC Farm Bureau Scholarship

A Cal Poly Pomona plant science major who plans to attend graduate school received a $2,500 scholarship from a Southern California farming organization.

Kailan Kidder was presented with the scholarship from the Orange County Farm Bureau during the organization’s fundraising dinner at Tanaka Farms in Irvine on Nov. 4.

A senior who is also minoring in botany, Kidder said he was humbled to receive the scholarship.

“I cannot convey through words how blessed and honored I feel about receiving it,” he said. “Not only does it relieve a heavy burden of stress from a financial standpoint, but it also genuinely gives me motivation knowing that there are people who I don’t know who believe in me.”

Kidder, who grew up in Orange and attended Villa Park High School, said he plans to apply for the master’s degree of science in agriculture program, plant science option, at Cal Poly Pomona.

Although he initially considered becoming a firefighter or paramedic, Kidder is exploring a career in plant breeding and biotechnology. He credits his tomato breeding project research group and plant science faculty for their support.

The Orange County Farm Bureau represents farmers and growers through education, public policy advocacy and public relations.

The farm bureau is a strong supporter of the Huntley College of Agriculture, giving more than $250,000 to the college over the years. In recognition of their support, they were formally recognized as a member of the university’s Founder’s Society in spring 2022.

“We’re grateful for the OC Farm Bureau’s long support for the college,” Interim Dean Martin Sancho-Madriz said, “their partnership is important in helping us cultivate the next generation of agricultural leaders, like Kailan.”

The Huntley College draws many freshmen and transfer students from high schools and community colleges in Orange County. Over the years, they have supported scholarships and fellowships thus enhancing the student experience.