By Scout Nelson
Cooper Rathbun, a high school senior with deep farming roots, has been awarded the 2025 Herb Clutter Memorial Scholarship. Administered by the Kansas Association of Wheat Growers, the scholarship honours students passionate about agriculture, innovation, and leadership.
"Growing up on my family’s farm, I have spent countless hours working alongside my family during wheat harvest – riding in the combine, running grain carts and learning the importance of efficiency and sustainability in farming," Rathbun shared in his application. "These experiences have instilled in me a strong work ethic and an appreciation for innovation in agriculture."
Beyond farm work, Rathbun has been a strong leader in school and the community, serving as basketball team captain and securing a summer internship with Wilson & Company for hands-on engineering experience. After graduating from Lincoln Junior-Senior High School in May, he plans to attend Fort Hays State University before transferring to Kansas State University to pursue agricultural engineering.
"My goal is to develop practical, research-backed solutions that enhance wheat production while keeping costs manageable for farmers – just as Herb Clutter envisioned through his leadership in variety development and industrial uses of wheat," Rathbun wrote. "The Herb Clutter Memorial Scholarship represents more than just financial assistance – it honors a legacy of leadership, innovation and commitment to Kansas wheat growers. I am eager to carry on that legacy by applying my education and experiences to the advancement of the wheat industry."
The scholarship honors Herbert W. Clutter, a pioneering Kansas farmer and the first president of the National Association of Wheat Growers. Established in 2009, the scholarship supports farm youth committed to advancing agriculture through leadership and innovation.
"Wheat harvest taught me more than just the mechanics of farming; it instilled in me a strong work ethic, patience and the ability to adapt under pressure," Rathbun added.
Photo Credit:gettyimages-ygrek
Categories: Kansas, Crops, Wheat