The Association of Women in Agriculture Benefit Corporation (AWABC) awarded two graduate student scholarships to Association of Women in Agriculture (AWA) alumni members totaling $5,000. This was the organization’s fifth year awarding graduate student scholarships.
Luedtke
The first graduate scholarship winner, Alexis Luedtke, was awarded $3,000. Luedtke graduated in 2022 from the University of Wisconsin-Madison with a degree in Biochemistry and a certificate in Global Health. Currently a student at the Medical College of Wisconsin-Green Bay, Luedtke will graduate in 2026. She plans to pursue a residency and career in pediatrics after graduation. Luedtke adds, “I chose to attend medical school because it allowed me to combine my love for human interaction with my affinity for science. I am especially excited to interact with children and families in my future career. I want to help ensure a healthy future for them.”
Bleck
The second scholarship winner, Elise Bleck, was awarded $2,000. Bleck graduated from the University of Wisconsin-Madison in 2024. There she earned a degree in Dairy Science and certificates in Life Sciences Communication and Global Health. Bleck is attending South University in Savannah, Georgia to obtain a Master’s degree in Anesthesia Science. After graduation, Bleck will be working on an anesthesia care team to provide care to patients during surgery. Bleck notes, “I chose to attend graduate school because of my love for the medical field, science, learning and passion for helping others.”
Bleck and Luedtke are also both active members in AWABC. Luedtke shared that her favorite part of being involved in the organization is “the connections that it provides to all its members and the current undergraduate students.” Bleck echoed this sentiment, saying “I was fortunate to interact with alumni during my time as a student. I was very grateful to build connections with and learn from various AWABC members. I am excited to serve as a mentor to the student chapter and give back to the group that has provided me with advice and friendship.”
