Apply now to be considered for Wisconsin Cheese Makers Association’s (WCMA) seven student scholarships, worth a total of $19,000. Applications are due by February 14, 2025.
“WCMA members value the perspectives and enthusiasm the next generation brings,” said WCMA Executive Director John Umhoefer. “We’re proud to offer this opportunity to help students pursue careers in the dairy industry.”
Two scholarships are available for students attending a college, university, or technical school in the U.S., or high school seniors planning to attend a qualifying school next fall. Preference will be given to those pursuing dairy-related degrees and careers.
WCMA Myron P. “Mike” Dean Cheese Industry Student Scholarship
Two students will each receive $3,000. This scholarship is open to employees or children of employees at WCMA dairy manufacturing, processing, or marketing member companies. In 2024, Gabrielle Renard of Renard’s Cheese and MaKenzie Skibbie of Ellsworth Cooperative Creamery and Wisconsin Aging & Grading Cheese received this award.
WCMA Cheese Industry Supplier Student Scholarship
Three students will each receive $3,000. This scholarship is for employees or children of employees at WCMA supplier member companies. In 2024, Jacob Kirsling of R.W. Baron Process Equipment, Danielle Mauhar of Novonesis, and Elijah Ronsman of HART Design & Manufacturing received the award.
Brian Eggebrecht Student Scholarship Supporting Skilled Trades in the Dairy Industry
Two students will receive $2,000 each. This scholarship honors Brian Eggebrecht, long-time Championship Cheese Contest Chairman and generous donor. It is available to students attending technical schools in Wisconsin or high school students planning to attend. Priority is given to those pursuing technical certificates, diplomas, or associate degrees for a career in the dairy industry. Unlike other WCMA scholarships, applicants do not need to be connected to a WCMA member company. In 2024, Kendall Luzinski of Dutch Dairy and Aaron Schulz of Sargento Foods were awarded this scholarship.
To apply for any WCMA scholarship, submit school transcripts, a letter of recommendation, and a completed application.
