Graduate students advancing beef industry eligible for scholarship

CENTENNIAL, Colo. — Applications are now being accepted for the annual W.D. Farr Scholarship program. Established in 2007 by the National Cattlemen’s Foundation, the scholarship recognizes outstanding graduate students pursuing careers in meat science and animal agriculture.

Two $15,000 grants are awarded to graduate students who demonstrate superior achievement in academics and leadership and are committed to the advancement of the beef industry. Previous scholarship recipients recognize that the program not only benefits their work, but also the entire industry.

“One day, I’d like to share my knowledge, experiences and research findings related to meat science with future students, colleagues and industry professionals,” said 2023 recipient and West Texas A&M University doctoral candidate Megan Eckhardt. “Receiving this scholarship gets me closer to that aspiration.”

Graduate students can apply online by Sept. 20 by submitting a cover letter, curriculum vitae, description of applicant’s goals and experience, a short essay and statement of belief in the industry, as well as a review of the applicant’s graduate research, and three letters of recommendation.

The 2024 scholarship recipients will be recognized Feb. 4-6 at CattleCon 2025 in San Antonio, Texas.

The scholarship honors the successful career of W.D. Farr, a pioneer rancher, statesman and banker who was known for his extraordinary vision.

His dedication to improving agriculture, livestock and water development resulted in significant changes in farming methods that have influenced the practices of ranchers and farmers throughout the nation.

Farr was the first president of the NCF and served as president of the American National Cattlemen’s Association, which would later become the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association. Farr died at age 97 in 2007.

The NCF advances the future of the beef industry by assisting in the education of the next generation of beef industry professionals.

For more information and to apply for the scholarship, visit www.nationalcattlemensfoundation.org.