Minnesota Select Sires is continuing its tradition of supporting the future of the local dairy industry by awarding educational scholarships to students pursuing agricultural careers. Four deserving students were selected as winners of the $500 scholarships this year. “As always, we had a very strong group of applicants. We are humbled by the strength of the youth originating in Minnesota and North Dakota thanks to the families that are part of this cooperative,” stated Joel Ebnet, Minnesota Select Sires Board president.

This year’s winners are: Jacob Achen, son of Craig and Cindy Achen, Sauk Centre, Minnesota; David Hanson, son of Mike and Linda Hanson, Goodridge, Minnesota; Joseph Uter, son of Bill Uter, Waverly, Minnesota; and Darin Davis, son of Loring and Carol Davis, Cokato, Minnesota.

After earning his degree in animal science – dairy production at the University of Minnesota, Jacob Achen is hoping to become a large dairy farm manager. In the meantime, Achen plans to do an internship with a dairy to gain a broader understanding of the operations of a farm. Back at home, Achen enjoys working on the farm and tending to the show string. His family takes pride in presenting excellent looking cattle. To carry on this tradition, Achen states, “I plan to keep a nucleus of show cattle and continue exhibiting at World Dairy Expo. Of course, the ultimate would be breeding and owning a national champion and continuing to market my genetics for added income.”

David Hanson has always had a passion for agriculture, especially when it comes to the dairy industry. “I can’t see myself pursuing any other career and would like to continue with this for the rest of my life,” Hanson says. Currently pursuing a degree in animal science with a dairy production emphasis at the University of Minnesota, Hanson plans to stay directly involved in the dairy industry. He intends to return to the family farm, with his parent’s support, establish a partnership and eventually take over management. He says, “With knowledge learned in college, as well as on the farm and from other people in the industry, I look forward to being a leader in agriculture and, more specifically, in the dairy industry.”

Joseph Uter plans to use his degree in agricultural education from the University of Minnesota to continue to be a part of the agricultural and dairy industry. Growing up on a dairy farm, Uter has always had a passion for not just dairy, but agriculture as a whole. “I still have this passion and would like to use it in my future career,” he says. Unsure of what particular job he will pursue, Uter explains, “Dairy nutrition has always been an interest for me. I like dealing with forages and ration balancing.” Someday, Uter says, maybe he will own his own nutrition company.

“Upon graduation from the University of Minnesota, I plan on finding a job within the A.I. industry and, at the same time, I would like to be in partnership with my brothers on our family dairy farm,” states Darin Davis.Growing up on the farm, Davis was convinced that, no matter what, he would return home and farm. After completing an internship last summer, Davis realized he also enjoys the genetic side of the industry and plans to incorporate that into his career path. Davis feels that another important aspect of the dairy industry is technology. As part of a tech savvy generation, he is confident in his ability to pick up on new technologies. Davis says this and the education he is receiving will prepare him to be one of the industries finest leaders.

Qualifying candidates must be a family member of a Minnesota Select Sires cooperative member in good standing, and must be completing at least the first semester of the second year in a two or four year program. Applicants need to submit an application, grade transcripts, and a written essay. In a blinded approach to judging, the selection committee evaluates 1) dairy industry pursuits, 2) academic achievement, 3) active involvement in activities aligned with support of the dairy industry.

If you or someone you know is interested in next year’s scholarship, applications are due Oct. 31. For more information, contact Minnesota Select Sires at (800) 795-1233. PD

—From Minnesota Select Sires news release

PHOTO:
Chris Sigurdson (left), general manager of Minnesota Select Sires, congratulates Minnesota Select Sires 2011 “Future Leaders” scholarship winners, which include (left to right) Darin Davis, David Hanson, Jacob Achen and Joseph Uter. Photo courtesy of Minnesota Select Sires.