Ames, Iowa, USA
February 12, 2025
The Seed Science Center Scholarship Program at Iowa State University continues to recognize and support outstanding students who demonstrate academic excellence, leadership, interpersonal skills, and a strong interest in seed science and the seed industry. Open to students across all majors within the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences, these scholarships provide financial support and professional recognition to the next generation of seed industry leaders.
A special thanks goes to the Iowa Seed Association (ISA) and private donors, including Andy Jenkins, the Latham family, Bruce and Kathy Maunder, and the Shepherd family, whose generosity makes these scholarships possible. Their commitment to seed science education is helping to shape the future of agriculture.
Photo: Emma Davidson, ICIA Scholarship recipient
Recognizing Excellence: The 2025 Iowa Seed Association Scholars
The Iowa Seed Association (ISA) is dedicated to strengthening Iowa’s seed industry through education, research, and collaboration with regulatory authorities and agricultural stakeholders. Each year, ISA selects outstanding students for its scholarship program, awarding $1,000 to each recipient.
Manjit Misra Outstanding Senior Scholar
This year, Zachary Utley, a junior majoring in Agronomy and Seed Science, was named the Manjit Misra Outstanding Senior Scholar, earning an additional $500 award. Growing up in a family seed business, Zach developed a passion for the industry early on. His leadership roles, internships, and academic achievements have set him apart as a future leader in seed science.
ISA Scholars
The 2025 ISA Scholars are dedicated students with diverse agricultural backgrounds and aspirations:
- Abigail Crosby (Junior, Agronomy) – With a background in grain production, Abigail has hands-on experience in the seed industry through internships and her work in the Seed Testing Laboratory.
- Alaina Gebel (Sophomore, Agricultural Education) – Alaina’s experience spans from 4-H leadership to international agricultural research, with a strong passion for inspiring future agriculturists.
- Beau Klaver (Junior, Agricultural Studies) – Beau is an active leader in Alpha Gamma Rho and has organized fundraisers supporting agricultural non-profits like Farm Rescue.
- Adam Neighbor (Junior, Agricultural Systems Technology) – A top-performing student with a 4.0 GPA, Adam has combined agriculture and technology to advance crop production methods.
- William Vlasek (Junior, Agricultural Systems Technology) – An advocate for agricultural education and policy, William has held leadership roles in FFA, student government, and agricultural organizations.
Special Scholarship Recipients
Latham Scholar – Honoring Bill Latham
The Latham Family awards a $1,000 scholarship in honor of Bill Latham, a distinguished leader in the seed industry. This year’s Latham Scholar is:
- Keira Simmons (Junior, Agronomy) – A Crop Judging Team competitor, Keira has excelled in seed science research and industry internships, positioning herself for a future in agronomic consulting.
Lisa Shepherd Scholar – Advancing Seed Science
The Lisa Shepherd Jenkins Memorial Scholarship, awarded by the ISU Seed Science Center, recognizes students engaged in seed science and technology. This year’s recipient is:
- Olivia Marti (Junior, Agronomy & Agricultural Business) – Olivia has a passion for agricultural research, having presented work at the World Food Prize and completed seed science internships at CIMMYT and ISU Seed Science Center.
ICIA Scholar – Future Agronomist in Seed Science
The Iowa Crop Improvement Association (ICIA) recognizes students who demonstrate excellence in seed science and agronomy. This year’s ICIA Scholar is:
- Emma Davidson (Sophomore, Agronomy & Seed Science) – Emma has a deep passion for seed production, having worked as a crop scout and seed conditioning technician, and plans to specialize in seed development and crop improvement.
Shaping the Future of Agriculture
These outstanding students represent the future of seed science, agronomy, and agricultural technology. Their commitment to innovation, sustainability, and leadership will drive advancements in the seed industry, ensuring food security and agricultural progress for years to come.
The ISU Seed Science Center and the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences congratulate all scholarship recipients and thank the donors and industry leaders who continue to support the next generation of seed professionals.
For more information on scholarship opportunities in seed science, visit the ISU Seed Science Center website or contact the Scholarship Committee Chair, Dr. Susana Goggi.
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