Fairfield-Suisun Unified School District

Fairfield, CA – Rodriguez High School sophomore Ava Garben received a Harvest of Merit award from the Golden State Agricultural Foundation. 

Ava was one of just 29 students selected from 70 applicants across the state of California to receive a 2025 Harvest of Merit award. 

"Ava is incredibly passionate about the livestock industry, she works diligently with her animals to maximize their potential,” FFA Advisor Bridgette Eldridge said. “This award will allow her to support the start of her breeding goat project."

The $1,500 Harvest of Merit award will help Ava buy two does to start a small breeding goat project, which she plans to sell to local 4-H and FFA members. 

Ava is a second-year member of Rodriguez High School’s FFA program. She is studying chemistry and agriscience through RHS’ ag program. 

According to the Golden State Agricultural Foundation website, the Harvest of Merit Award Program provides funding and other in-kind support to assist recipients. Award applications are assessed based on the candidate’s story, goals, enthusiasm and planned use of award resources, as well as letters of recommendation and experience. 

“The foundation’s goal is to ensure a rewarding experience for all recipients and to advance their firsthand ability to understand why food production and its safe delivery is critical to all California communities,” the website states. 

In addition to Agriscience, Rodriguez High School offers students the opportunity to take classes in several other Career Technical Education (CTE) pathways, such as design and media arts, software and systems development, and video production. 

According to FFA Advisor Bridgette Eldridge, Ava Garben’s career goal is to become a large animal veterinarian. 

"The skills she develops with her breeding project will serve her well in her plans," Eldridge said.