News release
Students pursuing an undergraduate degree in water resource-related fields are invited to apply for the 2026-27 Association of California Water Agencies Edward G. “Jerry” Gladbach Scholarship, offered by ACWA in partnership with the Santa Clarita Valley Water Agency. Applications are now being accepted through March 1.
The annual scholarship was established in honor of the late Edward G. “Jerry” Gladbach, a past ACWA president, SCV Water vice president, and longtime local, state and national water leader. The scholarship is a $5,000 award to one qualified undergraduate student majoring in engineering, agricultural and/or urban water supply, environmental studies, public administration, or other water-resource-related fields.
New for 2026-27, all ACWA scholarships are open to students at any accredited public or private college or university in California.
“Jerry was passionate about developing students into future water leaders in California, and this scholarship continues that legacy,” SCV Water Board President Maria Gutzeit said in a news release. “Supporting students by opening doors to a career in the water industry – whether in engineering, water quality, water supply, planning or another specialty – is one of the most meaningful ways we can honor Jerry and help shape a stronger, more sustainable water future.”
Previous recipients of the Gladbach Scholarship include:
- Jade Meichtry, Cal Poly (2025).
- Krisha Pedraza, CSU San Marcos (2024).
- Elizabeth Peña, UC Davis (2023).
Interested students may see all eligibility requirements and apply for the scholarship through the ACWA website at acwa.com/about/scholarships.
