By Blake Jackson
UnitedAg has announced the recipients of its 2026 Agricultural Education Foundation (AEF) Scholarship Program, honoring forty outstanding students from agricultural companies across California and Arizona.
This year, the foundation distributed more than $100,000 in scholarship funding, with individual awards ranging from $1,000 to $10,000. The scholarships recognize students who demonstrate strong academic performance and a commitment to contributing to the agricultural industry.
Several students received top honors through named scholarship awards. Marcus Montgomery of Almont Orchard, Inc. was selected for the Maurice McMillan Scholarship, while Carl Nielsen of Bullet Ranches, Inc. earned the William C. Goodrich Scholarship. Madison Williams of Moovin Transport, Inc. received the Women in Agriculture Scholarship.
Cristian Vargas of Braga Fresh Family Farms and Wyatt Davidson of UnitedAg were both recognized with the Alex Drollinger Award. These students were acknowledged for their academic success and dedication to agriculture, reflecting the leadership qualities the program aims to encourage.
Vocational scholarships were also awarded to Laura Bucio of Rancho Guadalupe, Martina Chairez of Nichols Farms, and Anjanette Niemi of Vegetable Growers Supply, supporting individuals pursuing career-focused agricultural training.
“UnitedAg’s commitment to supporting those pursuing higher education or vocational training has created meaningful pathways to advance within the agricultural industry,” said scholarship committee chair Debbie Adam. “This opportunity strengthens the future of agriculture by encouraging the development and application of the latest skills in the field.”
Since the program began in 1989, UnitedAg has awarded approximately $2.1 million in scholarships to more than 1,200 students.
“Investment in education and training is the most meaningful way we can support the future of agriculture,” said Kirti Mutatkar, President and CEO of UnitedAg.
“These students represent the passion, talent, and dedication that will drive our industry forward. We are proud to support their academic journeys and help empower the next generation of agricultural leaders.”
To learn more about the individuals receiving 2026 Scholarship Awards, visit https://www.unitedag.org/aef/#educational-awards.
Photo Credit: unitedag
Categories: Missouri, Education