MEIER AWARDED AGRICULTURE SCHOLARSHIP

JEFFERSON CITY -- For Gregory Meier of Jackson, the Missouri Department of Agriculture is making it a little easier to get a college degree.

Meier is one of 20 Missouri high school students who will get help from the state agriculture department to pursue a degree in agriculture or a related field. A senior at Jackson High School in Jackson, Meier has been awarded a $500 scholarship to attend the University of Missouri - Columbia.

The department awarded 14 $500 scholarships and six $250 scholarships to students planning to major in agriculture, family and consumer sciences, or a related field at a designated Missouri college or university. The scholarships are administered through the department's Agriculture Development Fund.

"The agricultural industry of tomorrow depends on the educational opportunities we offer our youth today," said John L. Saunders, director of agriculture. "That's why I am so proud that we are able to take an active role in helping students seize those valuable opportunities."

The scholarships are awarded through a competitive application process. Eligible seniors must have a rural background with income from the family farm.

For more information about the scholarship program, contact the Missouri Department of Agriculture, Market Development Division, Agriculture Development Fund at (573) 751-5619.