MCGA names 2020 scholarship recipients
The Minnesota Corn Growers Association (MCGA) is excited to announce the recipients of the 2nd Annual Minnesota Corn Growers Association Scholarship. Luke Carr and Anna Prchal both received a $5,000 scholarship to further their college education as they work towards becoming agricultural leaders.
Applicants were asked to identify what they see as the biggest issues facing agriculture today and how they will make an impact on agriculture in Minnesota and beyond. Carr and Prchal rose above a talented group of students in demonstrating how they will build a brighter future for agriculture.
A soon-to-be graduate of Blue Earth Area High School, Carr will attend South Dakota State University where he will major in ag business and accounting. He aspires to return to the family farm following school where he will work during the growing season and focus on accounting during the winter months.
“I have gained a deep appreciation of the things I have and learned not to take anything for granted, especially when I am up early and out until three in the morning to get crops both in and out or help deliver a newborn calf,” Carr wrote in his application. “The farm lifestyle has truly shaped who I am today in such a positive way, and for this reason, I plan to continue my education and career in agriculture.”
A current attendee of South Dakota State University, Prchal is a 2019 graduate of New Prague High School. She is pursuing a degree in agricultural and biosystems engineering, and plans to focus on soil health in her career to reduce agriculture’s carbon footprint and preserve natural habitats. Her passion for the many technological advancements in agriculture has fueled her motivation and excitement about the future.
“Innovation in agriculture means so many things when it comes to my career. Best practices and techniques have changed immensely and will continue to do so at a rapid rate,” Prchal wrote in her application. “I am excited to be working toward a degree that could involve many of these innovations.”
To qualify for the scholarship, applicants were required to be a Young Adult Member of MCGA. The Young Adult membership, available to ages 16-24, was launched for future agricultural leaders who would like to participate in grassroots advocacy today. Along with reduced member dues, Young Adult Members stay up to date on the latest in Minnesota’s corn sector, as well as have access to great networking and leadership opportunities. Join today at mncorn.org/join.
In addition to MCGA’s scholarship, county corn organizations also offer a number of scholarships to local students pursuing a degree in agriculture. For more info on scholarships, visit mncorn.org/scholarships.
