Don’t Miss These Opportunities for Youth in the Swine Industry
Here’s a look at opportunities available for youth in the swine industry.
Illinois Pork Producers Association Scholarships Deadline Approaches
The Illinois Pork Producers Association has released their annual scholarship applications for undergraduate students. All applications are due by 4 p.m. on March 1. Applications accepted by mail or email, IPPA said in a release.
IPPA Scholarships
The Illinois Pork Producers Association proudly awards nine students with a scholarship each school year. Three Levels are awarded: (3) Gold Scholarships at $2,000 each; (3) Silver Scholarships at $1,500 each; (3) Bronze Scholarships at $1,000 each. Applicants must be currently enrolled as an undergraduate or be enrolling to begin in the Fall of 2023 to be eligible. IPPA Scholarships are open to students pursuing any undergraduate degree at any two-year or four-year college. Previous winners may apply again.
Adam Fesser Scholarship
IPPA hosts the Adam Fesser scholarship each year, which is sponsored by the Mid-Illinois Pork Producers Association. One award of $1,000 will be given. Applicants must be an undergraduate at a university/college or community college for the fall semester 2022-2023. Applicants must also have been a 4-H or FFA member and an Illinois resident. Students applying for the Adam Fesser Scholarship must complete an application form and a typed essay identifying the reason they want to pursue a career in agriculture, as well as provide transcripts, list of achievements & activities, and statement of financial need.
Ryan & Friends Scholarship
IPPA hosts the Ryan & Friends Scholarship each year, which is sponsored by the Purebred Swine Council. This scholarship will award a total of four $2,000 scholarships. Applicants must be an undergraduate at a university/college or community college for the fall semester 2023. Applicants must also have been a 4-H or FFA member. Students applying for the Ryan and Friends Scholarship must complete an application form and a typed essay identifying the reason they want to pursue a career in production agriculture, as well as provide transcripts, list of achievements & activities, and statement of financial need. Top applicants will be called in for interviews.
K-State sets dates for Junior Swine Producer Day
Youth are invited to learn more about swine production and management at K-State Junior Swine Producer Day on Sat., March 11. The event is co-sponsored by the K-State Youth Livestock Program, K-State Research and Extension and the Department of Animal Sciences and Industry.
The junior day program is one day of educational opportunities for youth, parents, project leaders, extension agents and others to increase their knowledge of youth livestock production and management. Tentative topics include project selection, nutrition and feeding, meat science, health, reproduction, grooming, showmanship, and the state livestock nomination process. K-State faculty members, staff, students, extension agents and guest speakers will lead sessions.
In addition, both events will offer instructor-led training for youth attendees to earn their YQCA certification, provided as an optional session after each junior day program. The training is expected to last approximately one hour.
All ages are welcome, but all attendees – including adults -- must register online. Registration is due Feb. 15. The cost for each junior day is $20 per person for those who register by the deadline, and $25 per person for those who register after the deadline. Those who register after the deadline will not receive a t-shirt. More information is available at www.youthlivestock.ksu.edu.
