Michael Cropp, Damascus, Maryland, is a junior majoring in animal sciences and industry with a minor in food science. Cropp is a member of the meats judging team, currently a director on the National Junior Angus Association Board and is actively involved in the Angus business in his home state. He, as a young decision maker in his own cow herd, is applying science and technology through genomic profiles and genetic selection using artificial insemination and embryo transfer. Cropp plans to continue his education post graduation.

Jared Bourek, West Point, Nebraska, is a senior majoring in animal sciences and industry, pre-veterinary, with a double minor in Spanish and agricultural economics. Bourek has been involved in the livestock industry his entire life, having worked in both pork and beef production. Bourek is currently employed at the purebred beef teaching unit and plans to enter veterinary school upon graduation. He has accepted a summer internship at Cattle Empire in Satanta, Kansas.

Steven Westrup, Protection, Kansas, is a senior majoring in animal science with a production and management option. Feedlot management and the health and well-being of young, high-stressed calves is of particular interest to Westrup, having gained valuable experience through his employment in custom growing and feeding environments. Upon graduation, he plans to join his family’s ranching operation.

All candidates must complete a detailed application. A designated panel conducts interviews with each of the finalists. Applicants are evaluated on academic excellence, work ethic, leadership potential and attitude. Recipients must express an interest in animal genetics, animal nutrition, animal health, reproductive management, agribusiness management or marketing.

Students classified as a rising-junior, junior or senior, either enrolled in or planning to enroll at Kansas State University with a major in animal sciences and industry or a closely related field may apply. Scholarships are awarded annually to students meeting rigorous criteria and exhibiting a passion to focus on improving the beef industry. Since the first scholarships were awarded in 2012, a total of 10 students have received $40,500 in unrestricted financial assistance through Henry C. Gardiner Scholarships.  

—From Gardiner Angus Ranch news release

PHOTO
The 2015-2016 Henry C. Gardiner Scholarship winners are Michael Cropp, Steven Westrup and Jared Bourek. Photo provided by Gardiner Angus Ranch.