By Blake Jackson
The Wisconsin Pork Association (WPA) has announced a variety of scholarship opportunities available to high school seniors and college students with an interest in agriculture and the pork industry.
In addition to its own awards, WPA helps promote scholarships offered by local pork producer groups and the National Pork Producers Council. Details on each scholarship are outlined below.
The Fredrich Memorial Scholarship, funded by the family of Clarence Fredrich and the Southeast Wisconsin Pork Producers, is available to high school seniors and college freshmen who plan to pursue an agricultural career. Three awards will be given, including two valued at $1,000 and one worth $750. The application deadline is December 1, 2025.
The Whitmore Memorial Scholarship honors the late Rex Whitmore, recognized for his exceptional leadership and communication within the swine industry. This award is open to registered juniors or seniors attending UW-Madison, UW-River Falls, or UW-Platteville. One scholarship of $1,500 will be granted, with applications due by December 1, 2025.
The Gunderson Memorial Scholarship, created in partnership with the family of Buell and Bernice Gunderson, recognizes their contributions to Wisconsin’s pork sector. At least one student will receive up to $1,000. Applications must be submitted by December 1, 2025.
The Southwest Wisconsin Pork Producers Scholarship supports a high school or college student from Iowa, Grant, or Lafayette County in Wisconsin who demonstrates interest in agriculture, preferably swine. One $1,000 award is available, also due December 1, 2025.
National scholarship opportunities are also offered. The Lois Britt Memorial Scholarships, backed by the CME Group and the National Pork Industry Foundation, provide ten individual awards of $2,500 to students pursuing careers in the pork industry. The deadline is December 12, 2025.
Lastly, the Neil Dierks Scholarship, administered by the National Pork Producers Council, grants one $5,000 award to a student aiming for future leadership in the pork industry. Applications are due December 31, 2025.
WPA remains committed to preparing youth for leadership, careers, and involvement within the pork industry. More information can be found at www.wppa.org/youth/scholarships or by calling 608-723-7551.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-poike
Categories: Wisconsin, Education, Livestock, Hogs