The Women in Agribusiness (WIA) organization is calling for additional sponsors to support its Student Scholarship Program due to an overwhelming number of applications this year. More than 30 young women are currently awaiting sponsorship to attend the annual Women in Agribusiness Summit, where they will have the opportunity to network and collaborate with nearly 1,000 women leaders in the agriculture sector.
The scholarship program, which has benefited over 400 young women in agribusiness since its inception, provides students with summit registration, accommodations, and access to all activities, including special workshops and collaborative opportunities. Sponsors typically invest more than $100,000 annually in the program, with a total of $1.365 million contributed over the past 13 years.
Jerry Brown, senior VP of Communications at the U.S. Dairy Export Council, emphasized the importance of investing in future industry leaders. "We are proud to support these accomplished, high-achieving young women who will undoubtedly give back to the dairy and agriculture industries in the years to come," Brown said.
Nina Krause, managing director US Row Crops, Southeast, for Nuveen Capital, highlighted the program's alignment with their commitment to advancing women in agriculture. "We're dedicated to empowering women and supporting the next generation of ag professionals," Krause stated.
Danielle Harris, managing director of North American acquisitions and dispositions at Manulife, described the sponsorship as "the beginning of a long-term relationship" that reflects their ongoing commitment to supporting women in agriculture.
The impact of the program is evident in the experiences of past participants. Reagan Russell, a former scholarship recipient who is now production coordinator for WIA, said, "The Summit has altered our career path significantly. I wouldn't be here at WIA in this role if I hadn't attended the Summit with a scholarship."
Interested sponsors are encouraged to contact John Hayes, WIA business development manager, at [email protected]. University students can apply for scholarships until July 13 through the WIA website.
The Women in Agribusiness Summit continues to play a crucial role in fostering connections and providing opportunities for women in the agricultural sector, with the Student Scholarship Program serving as a vital pipeline for future industry leaders.
