Ag scholarship opportunities

Shannon LeClair

Times Reporter

 

Agriculture is the backbone of many communities, and it’s important to the Strathmore and District Agriculture Society that students continue to explore different aspects of the field. The Society is offering five $500 scholarships to students enrolled in a post-secondary institution focusing on an agriculture-related field of study. Applications are being accepted until June 30. “It’s not just limited to Strathmore, it’s for Wheatland County residents as well, so if you want just throw your name in there. There’s a criteria that must be met, we’re working very closely with the high schools … to really get the advisors knowing that we have this grant available,” said President Brad Walls. One reason the scholarship is important to Walls personally is because there seems to be a stronger disconnect than ever when it comes to kids and agriculture. Many think the stores are where milk, eggs and other produce and meat come from. Walls realized this in a conversation he had with his daughter while at Sobeys one day. “Kids really are getting this mentality that eggs come from the store, or beef comes from the store, but really where it comes from is the farm. Having an agriculture background myself I understood that, so I started to educate my daughter,” said Walls. Successful applicants must have proof of being a Strathmore or Wheatland County resident and student, and are asked to attach a copy of their high school transcript with the application. They must have achieved 70 per cent or higher in their Grade 12 year, attach three references who must not be related to the applicant and write an essay explaining their community involvement and reason for pursuing an agricultural career. The application can be picked up directly at the Ag. Society. For more information call 403-934-5811 or email info@strathmorestampede.com.