A total of 32 students in Arkansas, Louisiana, Mississippi, Missouri and Tennessee have been awarded $48,000 in college scholarships from America’s Farmers Grow Ag Leaders, sponsored by the Monsanto Fund.

The program is designed to raise awareness of the diverse career opportunities in the agriculture industry and provides scholarships to support students’ post-high school education in ag-related fields of study. Farmers play a vital role by promoting the opportunity to local students and endorsing their applications.

Kyle Covington of Jonesboro, Ark., a 2016 Grow Ag Leaders scholarship recipient, exemplifies the quality of students who are selected for Grow Ag Leaders scholarships. “Kyle owns his own business; he is self-motivated and determined. This will aid him in furthering his education and becoming a contributing member of society,” said Ronda Watt of Jonesboro High School.

Grow Ag Leaders scholarships, administered by the National FFA Organization, are available to high school seniors and college students in 1,326 eligible counties across 40 states pursuing degrees in ag-related fields.

To be considered, each applicant is required to receive endorsements from at least three local farmers. Both FFA members and non-FFA members are eligible to apply. With support from the Monsanto Fund, more than $1.1 million in scholarships has been awarded to students since Grow Ag Leaders piloted in 2014. For the list of recipients and more information, visit GrowAgLeaders.com.

America’s Farmers Grow Ag Leaders is part of the America’s Farmers community outreach initiative. Other programs include America’s Farmers Grow Communities and America’s Farmers Grow Rural Education. Visit www.AmericasFarmers.com to learn more.