USPOULTRY Foundation Awards $331,292 in Student Recruiting Grants
In a significant move to enhance educational opportunities in the poultry industry, the USPOULTRY Foundation has awarded a total of $331,292 in student recruiting grants. These funds are allocated to six U.S. universities with dedicated Poultry Science departments and 21 additional institutions engaged in related academic programs.
Purpose of the Grants
The foundation aims to provide annual recruiting and retention funds to colleges and universities, thereby attracting and connecting students to poultry science programs or the industry itself. The generous grants are made possible through contributions from industry partners, individuals, families, and funds raised at the International Poultry Expo, which is part of the larger International Production & Processing Expo.
Universities Benefitting from the Grants
The following six Poultry Science departments are the recipients of these grants:
| University | Grant Amount |
|---|---|
| University of Arkansas | $29,753 |
| Auburn University | $29,019 |
| University of Georgia | $31,219 |
| Mississippi State University | $28,286 |
| North Carolina State University | $34,372 |
| Texas A&M University | $47,351 |
Industry-Related Programs Supported
The Foundation’s Industry Education Recruitment Funding Program has also extended support to 21 other institutions, helping them attract students in related fields:
| Institution | Grant Amount |
|---|---|
| California State University, Fresno | $7,000 |
| Clemson University, South Carolina | $1,400 |
| Cleveland Community College, North Carolina | $7,000 |
| Delaware Valley University, Pennsylvania | $7,000 |
| Iowa State University | $3,958 |
| Modesto Junior College, California | $5,400 |
| North Carolina A&T State University | $6,839 |
| Ohio State University | $5,900 |
| Pennsylvania State University | $10,000 |
| Sam Houston State University, Texas | $7,000 |
| Southern University and A&M College, Louisiana | $6,665 |
| Stephen F Austin State University, Texas | $4,000 |
| State University of New York College of Agriculture and Technology (SUNY Cobleskill) | $7,000 |
| Tennessee Tech University | $7,000 |
| University of Delaware | $6,280 |
| University of Florida | $7,000 |
| University of Maryland | $7,000 |
| University of North Georgia | $10,000 |
| University of Tennessee | $5,500 |
| Wallace State Community College, Alabama | $2,350 |
| Wilkes Community College, North Carolina | $7,000 |
Industry Leaders’ Perspectives
Mikell Fries, chairman of the USPOULTRY Foundation and representative of Claxton Poultry Farms, stated, “The future of our industry depends on the creativity and drive of the next generation. By showcasing the many career opportunities available, we encourage young talent to grow into tomorrow’s leaders. The USPOULTRY Foundation’s recruiting grants help colleges and universities motivate students to explore fulfilling careers in the poultry industry.”
Foundation History and Impact
The USPOULTRY Foundation was established in 1994 by the U.S. Poultry & Egg Association to provide essential recruitment funds to universities offering Poultry Science programs. In 2004, the Foundation expanded its focus to include other colleges with industry-related studies through the Industry Education Recruitment Funding Program. Since its inception, the USPOULTRY Foundation has reinvested over $8 million in recruitment efforts aimed at stimulating interest in the poultry industry.
For further details, visit the US Poultry & Egg Association website.
