By Marlee Moore and Mary Wilson

Seventy-six students at Auburn University (AU) received scholarships for the 2020-2021 academic year through various Alabama Farmers Federation groups.

Of the recipients, 54 received the Alabama Farmers Agriculture Foundation (AFAF) Scholarship. The program is a joint effort between AFAF and county Farmers Federations, which split the funding of the scholarships — $1,250 and $500, respectively.

“We’re proud of these students. They’re hard workers who represent the future of agriculture and farming,” said Federation President Jimmy Parnell, also AFAF board president and an AU College of Agriculture alumnus. “It’s a pleasure to invest in their education through this scholarship program. We’re confident these young adults will go on to achieve great things in our industry.”

One future leader is Brittany Carroll of Dale County. She’s a sophomore studying agricultural business and economics.

“I can’t say thanks enough,” said Carroll, 20, who was raised on a diversified row crop, cattle and poultry farm. “These scholarships help us pursue our future careers and achieve our dreams.”

For Orum Snow, time on his family property in Wilcox County and earning the rank of Eagle Scout cued his career dream — working in the great outdoors. Federation scholarships helped smooth his path to a career in land management.

“I wanted to be outdoors and find something that was hands-on but still technical. I decided on forestry because it was the major that provided the most time outdoors,” said Snow, 21. “Scholarships allow you to focus on schoolwork without stressing about jobs or finding other ways to pay for school, books or housing.”

This year, Farmers Federations in Baldwin, Chambers, Chilton, Covington, Dale, Henry, Houston, Lee and Madison counties awarded an additional 21 scholarships. Recipients were also selected for the Mike Henry Memorial Scholarship and the Ronny Donaldson Memorial Scholarship.

Students pursuing degrees in agriculture, forestry or a related field at AU or Alabama A&M University can apply for the competitive AFAF Scholarship Program.

Applications open Nov. 17 and close Jan. 31. Learn more by visiting alfafarmers.org/scholarships.

For recipient photos, view the scholarship album on the Alabama Farmers Federation Facebook page. 

Additional County Farmers Federation Scholarship recipients