We are proud to announce the recipients of the 2025 Emerging Leaders and Professional Merit Scholarships, an annual program created to uplift beverage professionals who are shaping the future of the industry. These recipients exemplify the passion, drive, and commitment to community that define SommCon’s mission. The scholarship program is made possible with support from The SOMM Journal and The Tasting Panel Magazine.

 

Recipients were selected through a review process by our Advisory Board’s Mentorship Committee and reflect a diverse cross-section of the wine and spirits industry – rising talent, dedicated educators, producers, and innovators who are building careers and community with intention.

 

2025 Emerging Leaders Scholarship recipients include:  

 

Betty Rhoades, San Francisco Wine School

Bonnie Grosvenor, Quigley Fine Wines

David Dixon, Freelance Service

Dwight Navis, Exploring Career Path

Fernando Galdamez, Capital Grille

Julianne Garber, Blue Ridge Spirits & Wine

Lauren Padula, Bateaux Cellars

Michelle Wang

Renee MarzolaMccorkle, Disco Show Speigleworld Las Vegas

Sarah Denvir, Vino Volo

Shakia Williams, Cyrenity Sips Winery

Victor Perez, Palomar College

 

2025 Professional Merit Scholarship recipients include: 

 

Al Fischer, Freaky People Grape Adventures

Deanna Ellis

Gina Leonardo, Fazeli Cellars

Mario Ortiz, Self Employed

Matthew LaRocco, Grocery Outlet

Michael Klinger, Tonidandel-Brown Restaurant Group

Michael Kortz, Lana, Solana Beach, Vintana Wine + Dine, Escondido

Mollie Kelly, 31Thirtyone

Richard Porter, Goldbar Whiskey Distillery and Tasting Room

Veronica Mendoza, Southern Glazer’s Wine & Spirits

 

“Each year, our scholarship recipients are a powerful illustration of the talent, resilience, and fresh perspective shaping the future of the beverage industry,” said Michelle Metter, Founder and Director of SommCon. “We’re honored to support their growth and welcome them into the SommCon community.”

 

SommCon Scholars receive more than just access to the conference – they become part of a larger community of mentorship, opportunity, and continued education. The program includes:

 

  • Full conference access to SommCon Conference & Beverage Expo, September 7–9 in San Diego

  • Participation in SommCon’s structured mentorship program

  • A dedicated mentor offering professional support and guidance

  • Organized mentorship gatherings before, during, and after the conference

  • A mentorship breakfast to foster community and connection

  • Access to exclusive editorial and interview opportunities with The SOMM Journal and The Tasting

 

Scholarship recipients are selected by a volunteer Mentorship Committee of respected industry professionals through a blind evaluation process. The 2025 committee includes:

 

Molly Brooks
Meg Carrington-Griffin Simons
Anibal Calcagno
Will Costello, MS
Larissa Dubose
Maurice Dimarino
Brent Kroll
Meridith May
Angela McCrae
Vanessa Rason
Lisa Redwine
Erik Segelbaum
Kathleen Ann Thomas
Justin Trabue
Toshio Ueno, LAMTC
Whitney Pope