EAST LANSING, Mich. — Ten outstanding Michigan State University (MSU) students pursuing livestock industry-related programs of study for the 2023-24 academic year were recently awarded $35,000 in scholarships by the Michigan Livestock Industry Scholarship Foundation (MLISF).
In the last 10 years, the MLISF has presented more than $300,000 in undergraduate college scholarships to students who are working toward making a positive impact on the Michigan livestock industry.
Foundation President Pete Blauwiekel said, “Simply getting good grades is not enough to be recognized with one of these scholarships.”
In addition to academic achievement, the scholarship’s criteria include extracurricular leadership and involvement, written and oral communication skills, and enthusiasm in pursuing a livestock (beef cattle, sheep, swine, equine or meat products) industry career.
“Those individuals selected for this honor have a clear passion and demonstrated involvement in the Michigan animal industry and a commitment to its future improvement”, said Blauwiekel.
This year’s recipients are:
| Student Scholar | Home Town | Recognition Awarded |
| Laken DuRussel | Munger, Ml | Michigan Horse Council |
| Elizabeth Keller | Blissfield, Ml | David Morris |
| Jewel McMaster | Leonidas, Ml | Gerald Haarer |
| Lillian Culbert | Bentonville, AR | David Arnold |
| Taylor Mulder | Fremont, Ml | Michigan Cattlemen’s Association |
| Lauren Jacox | Portage, MI | Arabian Horse Association |
| Emma Horne | Canton Ml, | Harold Lein |
| Clara Henry | Swartz Creek, Ml | James Rooker |
| Brooke Stratman | Clio, Ml | Harold Henneman |
| Riley Baker | Coldwater, MI | Michigan Polled Hereford Association |
About the Michigan Livestock Industry Scholarship Foundation
Since awarding its first scholarships more than 50 years ago, the MLISF has played an influential role in advancing the education of talented and dedicated students. The MLISF was organized for the purpose of collecting and administering funds contributed by any person, business, or organization wishing to honor persons in the livestock and allied industries, living or deceased, who have performed distinguished services for the livestock industry of Michigan; and to provide scholarships for worthy young people pursuing training in the field of animal science.
For information on contributions to support student scholarships, please contact the MSU College of Agriculture and Natural Resources Advancement Office at 517-355-0284. To learn more about the MLISF, contact the Foundation’s Sec./Treas., Dr. Dan Buskirk in the MSU Department of Animal Science at 517-432-0400.
— Michigan Livestock Industry Scholarship Foundation
