Ottawa Valley Seed Growers
Guest Column
Again in 2022, volunteers at the Ottawa Valley Seed Growers Association (OVSGA) will offer scholarships of $2,500. Youth of Eastern Ontario and Western Quebec planning to pursue an agricultural career and entering at least their second year of post-secondary studies are invited to apply. Up to four scholarships are available.
Past scholarship recipients have come from across the Ottawa Valley and surrounding area from Leeds to Prescott counties, Carleton, Frontenac, and places between. The common factor among all recipients has been their commitment to the agriculture industry and the surrounding community.
Kathryn Stanton was the very first OVSGA scholarship recipient back in 2017. Growing up in the Pakenham area, Kathryn was actively involved in 4-H, and credits the program for preparing her for a career in agriculture.
In 2017 Kathryn Stanton was named the first OVSGA scholarship recipient.
“My time in 4-H was pivotal in shaping the person I am today, a credit to the fantastic leaders I was fortunate to have. Public speaking, collaboration with others and leadership were some of my biggest takeaways.”
4-H projects in dairy, beef, field crops, square dancing, food grains, and The Real Dirt on Farming provided opportunities for Kathryn to develop and enhance leadership skills.
At application time, Kathryn was enrolled in the bachelor of commerce, food & agriculture business co-op program at the University of Guelph. Summer work terms and co-op placements with Cargill, PT Sullivan Agro, and Parrish & Heimbecker, combined with a term at OMAFRA’s rural program branch enabled Kathryn to explore a variety of avenues within the agriculture industry. Upon graduation, she settled into the agriculture division of the Royal Bank of Canada where she works with farmers and agri-business owners large and small to support their needs and ambitions to achieve business goals.
Kathryn loves to keep busy. She is “a sucker for being active in the outdoors, whether that is hitting the water in a kayak, or heading for a hike or skating on an outdoor rink.”
When applying for the OVSGA scholarship, Kathryn indicated “agriculture is an industry I am very proud to be a part of and can’t wait to make a difference in.”
Students applying for scholarships are encouraged to highlight accomplishments, courses and activities enjoyed, skills developed and plans for the future. “There are so many opportunities to help support you as you pursue your education. Not only will scholarships provide financial support but broaden your network and prepare you for future job applications.”
It is important to note that although applicants require completion of at least one year of post-secondary studies, registration in an agricultural studies program is not a requirement. OVSGA recognizes that there are multitudes of skills required for success in the agricultural industry, so support may be provided for students in accounting, communications and economics to mechanics, engineering and more.
OVSGA directors look forward to showcasing more of Ottawa Valley’s very talented and dedicated youth planning for a career in agriculture. Applications are welcomed before the 4pm deadline on June 30, 3022.
For more information visit www.ottawafarmshow.com
