National Sorghum Foundation announces scholarship winners

The National Sorghum Foundation has selected three students as recipients of its 2025-26 academic year scholarships. Each award recognizes exceptional academic achievement, leadership potential, and commitment to advancing agriculture and the sorghum industry.

Andrew Le, a senior at Kansas State University, is the recipient of the Bill Kubecka Memorial Scholarship. Le is majoring in political science and global food systems leadership and served as the Kansas Sorghum Collegiate Fellow through K-State’s Food and Ag Policy Fellowship program during spring 2025. Originally from Wichita, Kansas, Le plans to pursue a public service fellowship after graduation, with a long-term goal of working in food access and public management. He aspires to serve in a government role that improves lives through effective policy and community-focused programs.

Olivia Marti, a junior at Iowa State University, has been awarded the Darrell Rosenow Memorial Scholarship. From Waukon, Iowa, Marti is double-majoring in agronomy and agricultural business and plans to pursue an advanced degree in either crop development or agricultural business. Her career goals include bridging the gap between research and real-world application, supporting farmers through innovations in plant breeding and seed systems, and contributing to a more resilient global food system.

Charles Colvin, a senior at Penn State University, is the recipient of the prestigious Bruce Maunder Memorial Scholarship. Colvin, from Malvern, Pennsylvania, is studying plant science with a minor in agronomy and intends to pursue a doctorate focused on genetics, physiology, and biotechnology. He envisions a career in academia or industry where he can contribute to sustainable agriculture through modern breeding techniques and biotechnology, enhancing crop resilience and improving food security.

“As part of the foundation’s mission, we are committed to supporting students with a passion for agriculture, especially those who show promise in advancing sorghum research, production, or advocacy,” National Sorghum Foundation Chairman Jeff Dahlberg, Ph.D., said. “We are honored to recognize these students and look forward to the positive impact they will have on the future of agriculture.”

Each scholarship provides a $1,500 award to help cover education-related expenses. In addition, the Bill Kubecka Memorial Scholarship offers Le the opportunity to travel to Washington, D.C., with National Sorghum Producers for firsthand experience with agricultural policy and federal decision-making.