What's New

HCC Viticulture and Enology Program Awarded Grants

published October 24, 2011

Scott Kohl, director of Highland Community College’s viticulture and enology program, has received word of two grants in support of the program. In late August, the National Science Foundation (NSF) awarded the Viticulture and Enology Science and Technology Alliance (VESTA) with the new designation of National Center of Excellence. Since 2008, Highland Community College has been the Kansas partner of VESTA, a consortium of colleges throughout the Midwest. The new designation allows VESTA to expand to a nationwide footprint, now covering 17 states across America. 

The new designation also accompanies a grant in the amount of $4.99 Million over four years to be divided among the 17 VESTA member colleges. The funds allow VESTA’s partners to continue offering both online and on-the-ground classes in viticulture (grape growing) and enology (winemaking) in addition to assisting grape and wine industry organizations in each member’s state. Over the four years of the grant, HCC’s Viticulture and Enology Program will receive a total of $217,000.

This week the Kansas Department of Agriculture announced the awardees for the 2012 Specialty Crop Block Grant program. HCC’s V&E Program was awarded a grant in the amount of $31,500. HCC will utilize these funds to offer a set of workshops on viticulture in 2012 as well as conduct one-on-one visits and consultation work with Kansas vineyards and wineries throughout the year.

Back to News »

What's Happening At Highland