By Scout Nelson
The Nebraska Division of Midwest Dairy has announced the recipients of its scholarships for the 2026–2027 academic year, awarding a total of $5,000 to six deserving students. This program supports both high school and college students who have demonstrated strong leadership, academic achievement, and a clear commitment to the dairy industry.
The scholarship selection process considered several important factors. Applicants were evaluated based on their leadership roles in school and community activities, involvement in dairy-related work, career goals related to the dairy sector, academic performance, and letters of recommendation. Special preference was given to students who plan to pursue careers within or in support of the dairy industry.
The organization provides scholarships to full-time undergraduate and graduate students studying at accredited colleges. Eligibility includes students from families that own dairy farms or those employed on dairy farms in Nebraska contributing to the Midwest Dairy checkoff program. This initiative reflects the organization’s ongoing effort to support education and develop future leaders who will advocate for the dairy industry.
The scholarship recipients represent a wide range of academic interests and career paths. Sudeep Sachinthaka from Lincoln, Nebraska, received $1,500 and is currently pursuing a master’s degree in animal science at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, with a specialization in ruminant nutrition. Carter Behnken from Omaha, Nebraska, was awarded $1,000 and is studying agricultural economics with a minor in agribusiness entrepreneurship at the same university.
Kammy Held of Leigh, Nebraska, also received $1,000 and is majoring in agricultural education. Isaac Guenther from Bancroft, Nebraska, was awarded $500 and plans to study electrical construction and control at Northeast Community College. Tanyn Larson of Creston, Nebraska, received $500 and is pursuing a nursing degree at Northeast Community College. Halie Racicky from Mason City, Nebraska, was also awarded $500 and is studying early childhood education at the University of Nebraska at Kearney.
Applications for the next round of scholarships for the 2027–2028 academic year will open on December 1, 2026. Students interested in applying can visit MidwestDairy.com for more information about eligibility and requirements.
Photo Credit: mid-westdairy
Categories: Nebraska, Education, General