Meet the Recipient of BBK’s 2026 Arthur L. Littleworth Scholarship
Recognizing an Emerging Technology and Public Policy Student Focused on Solutions for California Water Management
Best Best & Krieger LLP (BBK), in collaboration with the Association of California Water Agencies (ACWA) is excited to share that Catari Portillo is the recipient of the 2026 Arthur L. Littleworth Best Best & Krieger Scholarship. Created in 2022, the annual $10,000 scholarship honors the lasting impact of Art Littleworth, a distinguished BBK partner, trailblazer in water law and passionate advocate for civil rights.
Catari Portillo was selected for the scholarship for his innovative vision at the intersection of technology, public service and water resource management. A student at Merritt College preparing to continue his studies in Computer Information Systems at Howard University, Portillo has demonstrated a strong commitment to using data and technology to address complex water and infrastructure challenges facing California communities.
Through hands-on experience, Portillo has already distinguished himself as an emerging voice in the future of water sustainability. As a Data Architecture Intern at Manatex, an AI startup based at Paris’ Station F incubator, he has worked on developing data-driven systems and predictive models designed to support strategic decision-making. He hopes to apply these same concepts to California water management by advancing transparent, real-time data systems that improve efficiency, planning and equitable access to resources.
Portillo’s commitment to equity and community impact also played a key role in his selection. While attending community college in the East Bay, he worked to help reduce barriers for low-income and underrepresented students seeking access to international education opportunities. His experiences as a first-generation and transfer student have shaped his broader mission to ensure technology and public infrastructure serve all communities fairly and effectively. His long-term goal is to help modernize California’s water systems through data analytics, AI and collaborative public policy solutions that support sustainable water access for future generations.
The Arthur L. Littleworth Scholarship supports undergraduate students who demonstrate a passion for and career trajectory in water law, public policy or related fields. The recipient also receives mentorship opportunities with BBK and an invitation to attend ACWA’s annual Spring Conference.
BBK and ACWA are honored to support Catari Portillo’s commitment to advancing innovative and sustainable solutions for California’s water future.
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