MFA Scholarships
Each year the Middlesex Federation of Agriculture awards up to three $1,000.00 scholarships to deserving applicants based on the following criteria:
- Academic Achievement
- Community Involvement
- Agricultural Knowledge
- Be enrolled in post-secondary education
- Complete & submit an MFA scholarship application
- Attend an interview with a selection committee
Scholarship History
The Middlesex Federation of Agriculture (MFA) established its scholarship program in 1984. To qualify for the award the recipient must have been a resident of Middlesex County, enrolled in the second year of an agricultural diploma course, or the fourth year of an agricultural degree course. The award was based on a combination of community activities, academic achievements and demonstrated interest in agriculture. The thought was that the scholarship would be rotated through Ridgetown College, Centralia College and the University of Guelph as these were the three educational institutions, at that time, that had agricultural programs in this area. The first presentation of $500.00 was made to Wesley Fox of Thorndale at the 1984 Annual Banquet by Dan Baker the MFA President that year.
Since then the award has been presented yearly and with only slight changes in the requirements to receive the award. In 1995 the criteria for the award was revised to encourage the number of young people who might consider a career in Agriculture. While the students do not have to be starting an agriculture course, it is necessary for the applicants to demonstrate how the course they are going to take relates to agriculture and how they intend to apply the knowledge upon graduation. The applicants are to be judged based on agricultural knowledge, community involvement and academic standing. The scholarship(s) are to be awarded at the recipients’ high school commencement and they are asked to attend the Middlesex Federation of Agriculture’s annual banquet where they are also recognized.
This year, the MFA offers up to three (3) $1000.00 scholarships to deserving youth in Middlesex County, honouring the following individuals;
Dougald McCallum - In 1995 this scholarship was established to recognize Mr. McCallum’s long-time commitment to agriculture in Middlesex County. After serving as MFA President in 1985, Dougald continued to contribute to the Board and organization.
Meredith Robb - In 2016, the Middlesex Federation named a second Scholarship, recognizing Meredith (1939-2016), another Past President of the MFA. Mr. Robb is most recently remembered for his passion and dedication to farm safety. He was involved in many rural organizations including 4-H, Jr. Farmers, and the Ilderton Ag. Society and Lions Club.
Steven Fonger - In 2019, the MFA Board named the third scholarship for Steve, (1967-2018) a long-time MFA Director. Steve’s commitment to the organization and service as a PAC (Policy Advisory Council) to the OFA are being honoured in naming this scholarship.
Since then the award has been presented yearly and with only slight changes in the requirements to receive the award. In 1995 the criteria for the award was revised to encourage the number of young people who might consider a career in Agriculture. While the students do not have to be starting an agriculture course, it is necessary for the applicants to demonstrate how the course they are going to take relates to agriculture and how they intend to apply the knowledge upon graduation. The applicants are to be judged based on agricultural knowledge, community involvement and academic standing. The scholarship(s) are to be awarded at the recipients’ high school commencement and they are asked to attend the Middlesex Federation of Agriculture’s annual banquet where they are also recognized.
This year, the MFA offers up to three (3) $1000.00 scholarships to deserving youth in Middlesex County, honouring the following individuals;
Dougald McCallum - In 1995 this scholarship was established to recognize Mr. McCallum’s long-time commitment to agriculture in Middlesex County. After serving as MFA President in 1985, Dougald continued to contribute to the Board and organization.
Meredith Robb - In 2016, the Middlesex Federation named a second Scholarship, recognizing Meredith (1939-2016), another Past President of the MFA. Mr. Robb is most recently remembered for his passion and dedication to farm safety. He was involved in many rural organizations including 4-H, Jr. Farmers, and the Ilderton Ag. Society and Lions Club.
Steven Fonger - In 2019, the MFA Board named the third scholarship for Steve, (1967-2018) a long-time MFA Director. Steve’s commitment to the organization and service as a PAC (Policy Advisory Council) to the OFA are being honoured in naming this scholarship.
How to Apply
Please fill out the attached application, and e-mail to [email protected]
| MFA Scholarship Application Form |