Long Time Naches Grower Honored by Yakima Valley College

George Allan has been chosen by Yakima Valley College as the 2022 recipient of the Distinguished Alumnus Award. Allan is the former owner and current board member of Allan Brothers Fruit in Naches, Washington.
A press release from the school says the Distinguished Alumnus Award recognizes an alumnus who attended YVC for a minimum of three quarters, earning at least 45 credits, and has distinguished themselves in a positive manner.

The faculty, staff students and the community help make the decision

The award was established in 1982 and first conferred to Catherine May Bedell, the award has been presented to a variety of notable graduates of YVC.
The selection is made by the President’s Office from nominations submitted by faculty, staff, students and community members.
Like a lot of people who attended the local college Allan attended Yakima Valley College before transferring to Washington State University and earning a bachelor’s degree in agricultural economics. Allan says the opportunity to attend YVC helped provide a foundation of support that was crucial to his success and was the foundation of success for thousands of people in the valley.

Allan says he worked his way up through the industry

“My brother and I bought a Junker orchard the first year I attended YVC,” says Allan. The ability to go to school for a couple of years at YVC was crucial.  It allowed me to get an education and do other things that I was involved in.  At YVC I learned the skills needed to succeed in business.  Overall, I was very impressed with the quality of instructors and the basic education helped me move on to the business of growing fruit. "
Over the years Allan has helped grow Naches by donating land for the new elementary school, fire station and baseball fields. The release from the college says he is also especially proud of his support of a fundraiser for Cottage in the Meadow - Yakima Valley Memorial Hospital’s bereavement and hospice support center.
The Distinguished Alumnus Award will be presented during Yakima Valley College's Commencement ceremony on June 17.