Key Takeaways:
- 25 students were awarded scholarships to attend the 2024 WIA Summit.
- Scholarships include access to the summit, lodging, meals, and a one-year WIA membership.
- Corporate sponsors such as Wilbur-Ellis and ADM are providing financial and mentorship support.
- Nearly 300 students have benefited from the WIA scholarship program since its launch.
- The WIA Summit will be held from September 24-26 at the Hyatt Regency Denver.
Women in Agribusiness (WIA) has announced the recipients of the 2024 Student Scholarship Program, which will allow 25 students to attend this year’s Women in Agribusiness Summit, taking place from September 24-26 at the Hyatt Regency Denver. In addition to the summit, selected activities will be hosted at Colorado State University Spur.
25 Students Selected for the WIA Scholarship Program
The WIA Student Scholarship Program recognized 25 students from universities and colleges across the U.S., all pursuing degrees in agriculture-related fields. These students have been paired with corporate sponsors who will fund their attendance at the summit and provide mentorship throughout the event. Eligible applicants for the program are full-time juniors, seniors, graduate, or doctoral students enrolled at accredited institutions.
Scholarship Benefits and Industry Exposure
The scholarship program offers more than just access to the WIA Summit. Recipients will also receive lodging and meals during the event, a one-year WIA membership, and an invitation to a student-only breakfast and workshop led by industry executives. This program provides students with opportunities to network with nearly 1,000 professionals in agribusiness, explore career paths, and learn about current trends in the sector.
Corporate Sponsors Supporting Career Development
Each scholarship recipient has been paired with a corporate sponsor, who will provide financial and professional support during the summit. These sponsors include organizations such as Wilbur-Ellis, ADM, Bunge, and CoBank, among others. The program emphasizes mentorship, with sponsors offering guidance to help students navigate their future careers in agribusiness.
Previous Success of the WIA Scholarship Program
Since its establishment, nearly 300 students have participated in the WIA scholarship program, with many securing internships or employment opportunities through the summit’s extensive networking platform.
2024 WIA Scholarship Recipients and Sponsors
Here are some of the 2024 recipients and their sponsors:
- Katie Alcaraz – North Carolina State University, sponsored by PTx Trimble
- Emily Allen – University of North Carolina – Wilmington, sponsored by Wilbur-Ellis
- Kayla Allen – Kansas State University, sponsored by Manulife Investment Management
- Theresa Berndgen – University of Bonn, sponsored by ADM
- Charissa Grixby – Colorado State University, sponsored by AgReserves
A full list of the 2024 scholarship recipients, along with their biographies and sponsors, is available on the WIA website.
