Michigan vegetable industry scholarships now available

Scholarships are now available from the Michigan State Horticultural Society and The Michigan Vegetable Council for students who intend to pursue careers in the Michigan fruit and vegetable industries. The awards are made available by these organizations, with the support of industry sponsors.

In 2015, scholarship awards totaling $18,000 were awarded with the support of Agro Fresh, Inc. (SmartFresh), All Fresh GPS LLC, Breckenridge Insurance, Crop Production Services, MACMA Apple Division, Nestle/Gerber Products Company, North Bay Produce, Inc, Syngenta, Valent USA, Wilbur-Ellis Company, as well as the support of industry publications, including Fruit Growers News and Vegetable Growers News.

The target amount per scholarship is $1,500, but it could be more or less at the discretion of the selection committee. The award is not based on need or academic achievement; however, the selection committee may use these criteria to decide between two or more qualified applicants.

To receive more information or an application call the appropriate office as follows:

• Fruit scholarships: Michigan State Horticultural Society, 63806 90th Avenue, Hartford, MI 49057; phone: 269-424-3990; or e-mail MIHortSociety@aol.com. An application is also posted at www.mihortsociety.org. Applications should be mailed or e-mailed by Sept. 30, 2016.
• Vegetable scholarships: Michigan Vegetable Council, P.O. Box 277, Erie, MI 48133; phone: 734-848-8899; or e-mail – mivegcouncil@charter.net. An application is also posted at www.michiganvegetablecouncil.org. Applications should be mailed or e-mailed by Sept. 30.

The recipients will be selected in the fall and the attendance of recipients is expected at the banquet during the Great Lakes Fruit Vegetable and Farm Market EXPO, Dec. 6-8 in Grand Rapids, Michigan.

The Michigan State Horticultural Society and Michigan Vegetable Council invite other companies and organizations to contribute to the scholarship fund. For more information on sponsorship opportunities, call Allyn Anthony at 269-424- 3990 or Dave Smith at 734-848-8899.