This summer, the outreach team actively engaged with prospective students to showcase the exciting opportunities offered by the UC Davis Department of Viticulture and Enology (V&E). To support these efforts, we introduced new marketing materials, interactive activities, and tailored presentations designed for diverse audiences. These resources helped students and counselors better understand major requirements and explore career pathways in the wine industry.
Welcoming visiting groups to campus was a particular highlight of these last three months. Students toured the teaching winery, analyzed vineyard leaves, and experienced the unique blend of science and hands-on learning that defines our program. These immersive experiences often sparked curiosity and helped students envision their future as an Aggie.
One of our primary focuses this summer was strengthening our community partnerships. One notable visit was with The Two Eighty Project, an initiative founded in 2019 to promote equity in the wine industry by reclaiming community spaces like San Francisco’s Alemany Farms. Their mission is to build a sustainable food and wine community that supports both people and the local ecosystem. A key component of their work is the 280 Project Viticulture Fellowship– a six-month paid program led in partnership with V&E alum Steve Matthiasson. The fellowship offers hands-on training “from the vine up,” focusing on expanding opportunities for underrepresented communities. As part of their experience, apprentices toured our facilities and participated in professional development activities aimed at translating their skills into strong resumes.
In July, we hosted students from the UC Davis MESA (Mathematics, Engineering, Science and Achievement) program for a full day of hands-on learning. The MESA Center supports K–12 students with STEM projects, career exposure, academic support, and enrichment opportunities. During their visit, students learned the fundamentals of winemaking, sensory science, and ampelography. The event was so successful that we are already planning a follow-up session in April for their K–12 teachers.
Additionally, we also welcomed students from the UC Davis Transfer Opportunity Program (TOP), who toured our facilities and attended a presentation designed to support their transition from community college to UC Davis. These students explored the benefits of pursuing a STEM degree in V&E and learned about the transfer process.
Our outreach extended beyond campus as well. Although the annual Día de La Familia event hosted by the Napa Valley Farmworker Foundation was canceled, we maintained our partnership by hand-delivering marketing materials for the 500 tote bags distributed during their drive-by giveaway. Later in the summer, we returned to Napa to collaborate with the Napa Valley Education Foundation, presenting information about UC Davis V&E to high school students participating in their seven-week Field of Opportunities Summer Mentor Program.
We are excited to hit the road this fall and reach even most students, mentors, and teachers through college fairs and presentations to showcase all the wonderful opportunities available through earning a V&E degree. If you are interested in visiting campus or have us visit you, please email pchhernandez@ucdavis.edu.