Rondout Valley Growers Association Opens Applications for $2,000 Scholarship Honoring John Novi

The Rondout Valley Growers Association is now accepting applications for its annual Board of Directors Scholarship, a one-time $2,000 award aimed at supporting local students planning careers in agriculture or food-related fields.

The application period opens January 7, 2026, and is open to graduating high school seniors from all school districts within the Rondout Valley, including students enrolled in homeschool programs. The scholarship is awarded based on academic achievement, demonstrated financial need, and a student’s stated plan to pursue higher education connected to agriculture, food systems, or related disciplines.

According to the association, the scholarship funds may be used to help cover tuition, room and board, books, and other academic expenses. One recipient will be selected, and the award is not renewable.

Applicants must have a minimum GPA of 3.0 and be enrolled at an accredited college or university for the fall 2026 semester. Eligible majors include, but are not limited to, dairy science, animal science, veterinary science, agricultural technical programs, agricultural communications, and culinary or cooking schools. Students are also required to submit at least one letter of recommendation from a teacher or community member who is not a family member. Applicants may not be related to any RVGA board or staff member.

The scholarship committee, made up of members of the organization’s board of directors, will review applications after the submission period closes. A check will be mailed directly to the selected student.

This year’s scholarship will be awarded in honor of John Novi, a longtime member of the Rondout Valley Growers Association Board of Directors who passed away in mid-2025. Novi, a High Falls native, was internationally recognized as a chef, owner, and restaurateur and is widely credited as one of the founders of New American cuisine.

Beyond his culinary career, Novi was deeply committed to the Hudson Valley community. He was a vocal advocate for the preservation of family farms and regional history and frequently donated catering services to support agricultural, arts, educational, environmental, and historic organizations.

Novi’s local legacy also includes his early efforts to protect the Delaware and Hudson Canal. In 1966, he helped form the canal’s first board of directors and later played a key role in securing a grant that transferred a historic building to the D&H Canal Society.

Questions about the scholarship can be directed to Office@RondoutValleyGrowers.org. The association also welcomes donations to support the Board of Directors Scholarship Fund.