The 2026 Allocations Push OCWS Scholarships Past $1 Million!
By Damian J. Christian, Scholarship Chair
A historic milestone has been reached—and it’s one worth raising a glass to. With the 2026 scholarship allocations, the Orange County Wine Society has officially surpassed $1 million in total scholarships awarded, reaffirming OCWS’s long-standing commitment to education and the future of the wine and culinary industries.
For 2026, OCWS has proudly awarded $47,767 in scholarships to eight outstanding educational institutions across California. This year’s contributions bring the Society’s total scholarship giving since 1981 to an impressive $1,006,184—a remarkable achievement made possible entirely through the passion, generosity, and dedication of OCWS members.
These scholarship funds are raised through multiple OCWS-supported efforts, including the OC Fair Wine Courtyard tips, Featured Winery Program, OCWS Wine Auction, Commercial Competition Judges’ stipend donations, and generous member contributions. Every dollar represents a shared belief in supporting students who will shape the future of winemaking, viticulture, culinary arts, and wine business.
OCWS extends heartfelt thanks to every member and volunteer whose hard work helped make this milestone possible. Together, we are investing in education, opportunity, and the continued growth of our industry.
2026 OCWS Scholarship Allocations
| University / College | Program | Allocation |
| Allan Hancock College | Viticulture & Enology | $5,833 |
| Cal Poly Pomona | Agricultural Science | $5,713 |
| Cal Poly San Luis Obispo | Wine & Viticulture | $5,713 |
| CSU Fresno | Viticulture & Enology | $5,713 |
| Orange Coast College | Culinary Arts | $5,753 |
| UC Davis | Viticulture & Enology | $5,813 |
| Napa Valley College | Viticulture & Winery Technology | $7,513 |
| CSU Sonoma / Cunningham | Wine Business | $5,713 |
| Total Disbursements | $47,764 |
Help Us Keep the Momentum Going
You can support the OCWS Scholarship Fund at any time and be part of shaping the next generation of wine and culinary professionals.
Two easy ways to donate:
- By Mail – Mail your check to:
OCWS
P.O. Box 11059
Costa Mesa, CA 92627
Attn: Scholarship Fund
A donation acknowledgment letter will be sent to you. - Online – Log in to your account at ocws.org and visit:
ocws.org/product/scholarship-donations/
Donate online and print your tax receipt instantly.
Together, we’ve crossed the $1 million mark—let’s continue building a legacy that supports education, excellence, and the future of our industry.