Betty Bliss Scholarship

Scholarship Sponsored by Monroe County Farm Bureau

Monroe County Farm Bureau is awarding three $750 scholarships this spring — the Betty Bliss Scholarship, the Dale Lynn Mason Scholarship, and the Young Farmer Memorial Scholarship. If you’re planning a career in agriculture, you should apply.

Who may apply
- High school seniors and students already enrolled in post‑secondary programs that lead to agricultural careers. That includes four‑year colleges, community colleges, trade schools and vocational training tied to agriculture.
- Current students in those programs are eligible.
- Farm Bureau membership is NOT required, although participation in the Young Farmer Committee is encouraged.
- Previous scholarship recipients may reapply if they are still pursuing agricultural studies.
- We hope scholarship winners will eventually return to contribute to our local agricultural community.

Required materials
- The application form (look for the Microsoft Word link titled “2024 Monroe County FB Scholarship App” on the county Farm Bureau website).
- An essay answering: “What are your top three concerns or challenges in agriculture today? Explain how local farmers might be able to overcome these challenges.”
- Two letters of recommendation.

Deadlines and selection
- Completed applications and the two recommendation letters must be returned to the Monroe County Farm Bureau office in Ida by April 29.
- Applicant interviews with the Scholarship Selection Committee will be held the morning of Saturday, May 4.
- Scholarship winners will be selected in May.

Award distribution
- Each scholarship is $750. Winners will receive a check made payable to both the student and the school after submitting first‑semester transcripts that verify enrollment and grades.

Quick tips (from a teacher)
- Start early: give your recommenders plenty of time and proofread your essay.
- In the essay, be specific: name the challenges you see, give concrete local examples, and suggest practical steps farmers could take.
- Highlight relevant experience — coursework, volunteer work, farm jobs, or leadership — that shows your commitment to agriculture.

If you have questions about the application or need the download link location, contact the Monroe County Farm Bureau office in Ida.