The Arkansas Rice Federation has proudly served the state since 2008 to further the mission of USA Rice, by advocating on behalf of rice farmers, millers, merchants, and businesses. Opportunities and ongoing projects are in the works for both organizations as they look ahead to 2023.
Kelly Robbins, executive director of the Arkansas Rice Federation, joined Josh Hankins, director of grower relations and the Rice Stewardship Partnership for USA Rice, to discuss upcoming interests for the rice community.
Arkansas Rice Annual Meeting
Robbins noted the Arkansas Rice Federation is set to host its annual meeting. The event begins at 8 a.m. on Jan. 26 at the Grand Prairie Center in Stuttgart, Ark.
“This is a joint meeting of the Arkansas Rice Council and Arkansas Rice Farmers. There is no cost to attend, and all members of the rice community are welcome to join us,” he said.
Event details will soon be released with a registration link for attendees.
Sponsorship opportunities are listed on the website, and the deadline for sponsorship registration is Dec. 30.
“We encourage all those interested in attending or supporting the event to check out our website at arkansasrice.org for additional information,” he added.
College Scholarship Opportunities
The Arkansas Rice Council is in the second academic year of its college scholarship program.
The council board approved a five-year commitment to provide four- $2,500 scholarships each year to qualifying undergraduate Arkansas students pursuing a degree in agriculture.
Qualified recipients must be in their junior or senior year and enrolled in an agricultural program at one of four approved institutions – Arkansas State University in Jonesboro, or the University of Arkansas in Fayetteville, Pine Bluff, or Monticello.
Scholarship selection is based on recommendations and input from college faculty and staff. Interested applicants should contact the dean of their agriculture department during the spring semester of their academic year.