Dairy farmers are committed to their communities and giving back to the next generation. With 17 applicants this year, Dairy MAX has awarded $7,500 in scholarships to three students across the region who have ties to the dairy industry and are planning to continue their education in the agriculture industry.
The 2024 scholarship recipients are Layne Burnett of Carpenter, Wyoming, Tom Kuiper of Hico, Texas, and Dieter Ally of Friona, Texas. Each recipient was awarded $2,500 in scholarships to go towards their college education. Scholarships are awarded based on a combination of scholastic achievement, leadership, and involvement in agriculture.
“Investing in the youth of the dairy industry is important to Dairy MAX, and fundamental in progressing the industry as a whole,” said Todd Green, vice president of industry image and relations at Dairy MAX. “The Dairy MAX scholarship program allows the organization to support the next generation and encourages these young people while they are working to advance their education. We are honored to have these three students represent Dairy MAX and the industry.”
Layne Burnett grew up on her family’s dairy farm in Carpenter, Wyoming. As a senior at Texas Tech University, Burnett plays an active role in numerous clubs, organization and committees. Even while balancing her classwork and extracurricular activities, Burnett remains involved in her family’s dairy farm. She contributes by managing the farm’s data tracking programs and financial records. She is currently studying agricultural communications and plans to use her skills to serve the dairy industry.
Tom Kuiper is from Hico, Texas and is currently a senior at Hico High School. Upon graduation, he will be attending Cornell University in the fall. While at Cornell University, Kuiper plans to major in animal science with a minor in dairy management and join dairy-focused clubs and internship programs. During his time at Hico High School, Kuiper was highly active in several organizations including 4-H and FFA where he served as an officer and a member of multiple successful teams.
Growing up on a dairy farm in Friona, Texas, Dieter Ally continues to be very involved in the family farm’s day-to-day operations. He is currently a student within the veterinary medicine program at Texas A&M University and plans to become a large animal veterinarian. Ally has always been very involved in his community, being active in 4-H, FFA, local community events and his church.
A total of 17 scholarship applications underwent an in-depth judging process. To be eligible for the Dairy MAX scholarship, students must reside in the Dairy MAX region, be a graduating high school senior or undergraduate student currently enrolled in college and be a child of a dairy farmer, child of a dairy farm employee or an FFA/4-H dairy show participant.
“These three students are excellent representations of the dairy industry’s future. Their knowledge and experience with the commitment to advancing their education will make a positive impact on the dairy industry. Dairy MAX is proud to be a part of their success,” said Green.
Investing in the recipients' education propels dairy forward to continue feeding the world while nourishing communities. The 2025 Dairy MAX Scholarship application will open in January 2025. To see a full list of eligibility requirements and information about applying, visit DairyMAX.org/Dairy/Scholarships.
