Today’s youth are the agricultural leaders of tomorrow.  Minnesota Select Sires is continuing its tradition of supporting the future of the local dairy industry by awarding scholarships to students pursuing agricultural careers.  Two deserving students were selected as winners of the $500 scholarships.  “We are humbled by the strength of the youth originating in Minnesota and North Dakota thanks to the families that are part of this cooperative,” stated Joel Ebnet, Minnesota Select Sires Board.  “We are proud to be able to recognize students from the area with strong dairy career interests who are already distinguishing themselves as leaders in our industry.”

Minnesota Select Sires General Manager, Chris Sigurdson comments, “This scholarship program is one part of our effort to be a foundational supporter of the local dairy industry.  The program has allowed us to get a great sense of the impact our leaders of tomorrow are already having on our industry.  Being responsive to our members’ needs is one of the fundamental goals of our cooperative, and helping their children achieve their educational pursuits has been well received.”

This year’s winners are:  Andrew Krause, son of Charles and Robyn Krause, Buffalo, MN; Susan Hintz, daughter of Bob and Debbie Hintz, Flasher, ND.

Qualifying candidates must be a family member of a Minnesota Select Sires cooperative member in good standing, and must be completing at least the first semester of the second year in a two or four year program.  Applicants need to submit an application, grade transcripts, and a written essay.  In a blinded approach to judging, the selection committee evaluates 1) dairy industry pursuits, 2) academic achievement, 3) active involvement in activities aligned with support of the dairy industry. 

If you or someone you know is interested in this year’s scholarship, applications are due October 31, 2015.  For more information, contact Minnesota Select Sires at 800-795-1233 or mnselect@mnss.coop.