Walla Walla, Wash.—The Washington Wine Industry Foundation announced the 2018 Powers Sabbatical award to Marcus Rafanelli. Rafanelli is the Instructor of applied winemaking at Walla Walla Community College and cellar master for the institution’s College Cellars.

The Powers Family Sabbatical awards up to $5,000 each year to cover travel expenses for a mid-level industry professional to travel abroad, expand their knowledge about growing or making wine. Rafanelli said he will take this opportunity to study oak. His Sabbatical travels will take him to regions where oak is harvested and cooperages of France.