2019 Master Gardener Don Tapio Scholarship

The Grays Harbor and Pacific Counties Master Gardeners Don Tapio Scholarship is named for the man who is the epitome of “paying it forward”. As a young man Don almost had to quit college when his father lost his job at a plywood plant, but his Professor of Horticulture, Elwood Walter Kalin Sr, saved the day by arranging for Don to receive a scholarship from the Washington Federation of Garden Clubs. He went on to a successful 36-year career as a Washington State University extension agent, never forgetting the garden clubs which helped him in his time of need. He supported local garden clubs and the early Master Gardener program and delivered hundreds of public speaking engagements as a way to say thank you. Though retired, he continues to support the Olympia Garden Club with trees and cuttings for their annual holiday wreath sales that provide grants to Thurston County communities.

Amount of Award:
One $1000 scholarship annually

Scholarship Application (expired)

Application must be by postmarked May 1, 2019 or dropped off at the WSU Extension Grays Harbor County office.