New IFB Presidential Memorial Scholarship created
lllinois Farm Bureau’s rich history includes a list of former presidents that reads like an honor roll of well-known and well-respected individuals. In recognition of the past presidents who shaped and influenced IFB, the Board of Directors, at the suggestion of the IAA Foundation Board of Trustees, recently voted to create the Illinois Farm Bureau Presidential Memorial Scholarship fund.
“As a tribute to all former presidents of this organization, we feel strongly that this scholarship is a meaningful gesture that acknowledges the leadership they provided,” said Richard Guebert Jr., IFB president. “It is a genuine privilege to support the next generation of leaders and encourage degrees in agriculture related fields.”
Generally, the award amount will be $1,000 and presented in honor of all former IFB presidents. However, in the scholarship program year immediately following the passing of a former IFB president, the award amount will be $2,500 and presented specifically in that person’s memory.
An important consideration for the board was inviting contributions from individuals, organizations and County Farm Bureaus who wish to pay tribute to a specific leader, or all former presidents. Gifts to this fund can be accepted at any time on the IAA Foundation website or by contacting the IAA Foundation.
Scholarship recipients will be selected based on their proven leadership experience and an emphasis will be placed on their work/internship experience as outlined in their application.
A full listing of available scholarships and eligibility guidelines for the 2021 Scholarship Program is available on the Foundation website. Applications open Jan. 1 and must be completed online by Feb. 15. For more information, contact your county Farm Bureau, the IAA Foundation at 309-557-2232, or email Jennifer Smith at jsmith@ilfb.org.