Wisconsin Women in Agriculture Award $18,750 in Scholarships

Seventeen students pursuing agriculture careers just received scholarships totaling $18,750, proving that investing in the next generation of farmers and scientists is alive and well.

The Association of Women in Agriculture Benefit Corporation awarded the scholarships during their annual AWA Day program on April 18. Recipients are studying everything from dairy science to genetics, representing the diverse future of American agriculture.

Bailey Botterman, a junior from Genoa, Illinois studying legal studies, received the $1,000 Delma Woodburn Memorial Scholarship. The award honors a woman who championed female agricultural professionals during AWA's early years.

Kelsey Hardy from Dodgeville, Wisconsin took home the $1,500 Dr. David Dickson Scholarship for her dairy science studies. Dr. Dickson coached the UW-Madison Dairy Judging Team and mentored countless students throughout his career.

The scholarships come from multiple funds, including memorial scholarships honoring leaders who believed in supporting women in agriculture. Each award carries a story of someone who opened doors for the next generation.

Sydney Schott from Bruce, Wisconsin and Josephine Ammons from Wellesley, Massachusetts each received $1,000 AWA Active Member Scholarships. These awards recognize students who demonstrate strong dedication to AWA activities and values.

Four students earned AWA House Resident Scholarships for contributing to a positive community. Haylie Habeck, Sydney Held, Madison Kwak, and Mariah Miller each received $1,000 for their leadership and fellowship.

Summer Hammann, a dairy science sophomore from Barron, Wisconsin, received the Nicole Bangart Memorial Scholarship. The award honors an AWA alumna whose legacy continues inspiring young women in agriculture.

The Ripple Effect

These scholarships represent more than financial support. They're proof that agriculture remains committed to diversity and fresh perspectives in an industry feeding the world.

The students are pursuing fields that will shape the future of food production, from animal genetics to atmospheric sciences. Their diverse majors show how modern agriculture needs experts in communication, business, and science working together.

Organizations like Demeter and donors like Krista Knigge and Corey Geiger made multiple scholarships possible through their generosity. Their investment creates a cycle where today's recipients become tomorrow's donors and mentors.

Cate Cherney received the Kelsey Jo Olson Memorial Travel Scholarship to compete in the National Agri-Marketing Association competition. That $250 opens doors to networking and career opportunities that extend far beyond the classroom.

These seventeen students join a network of AWA alumni who are veterinarians, researchers, farmers, and agricultural leaders across the country. The scholarships prove that supporting women in agriculture creates stronger, more innovative food systems for everyone.