Area News Headlines
These news headlines brought to you by these fine sponsors:
Mid-Michigan and Thumb Students Receive MDARD Youth Livestock Scholarships
Russ Survance
Mon, 23 Feb 2026 10:22:17 EST
 |
click on the picture to enlarge
|
The Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD) has awarded 2025 Michigan Youth Livestock Scholarship Fund (MYLSF) scholarships to students across the state, with a strong showing from Mid-Michigan and the Thumb region.
A total of $62,000 was distributed statewide this year to 39 students who have participated in Michigan's premier livestock exhibitions. Since its creation in 2000, the scholarship fund has awarded more than $916,000 to support youth pursuing agricultural education and leadership opportunities.
Students from Mid-Michigan earned several of the top awards:
Elizabeth Hartmann (Genesee County) earned a $4,000 scholarship.
Sterling Tomac (Saginaw County) received $2,000 awards.
Olivia Birchmeier (Shiawassee County) was awarded $1,500 scholarships.
Dalton Birchmeier (Shiawassee County) received a $500 scholarship.
Katlyn Cunningham (Shiawassee County) earned a $500 statewide scholarship.
The Thumb region was also represented among this year's awardees:
Madyson Garza and Emma Noll, both of Sanilac County, each received $1,500 scholarships.
Scholarship funding comes from proceeds of the annual Michigan Livestock Expo "Sale-Abration" auction and charitable donations. In addition to the scholarships, approximately $14,000 from auction proceeds was deposited into Michigan Education Savings Plans for youth exhibitors competing in judging and showmanship events at the Michigan Livestock Expo.
MDARD officials say the program continues to invest in the next generation of agricultural leaders by supporting students who demonstrate dedication through livestock exhibition and competition.
