The Fairmont Area Chamber of Commerce Agri-Business Committee is proud to continue its partnership with Agriculture Future of America (AFA) to support the next generation of agricultural leaders. Each year, two Martin County students are selected to receive AFA scholarships as they pursue careers in agriculture or related fields. Each scholarship includes financial support for college as well as the opportunity to attend the prestigious AFA Leaders Conference, a national event that brings together top students from across the country to develop leadership skills and industry knowledge.
Congratulations to our 2025 Ag Scholarship recipients!
We are proud of your accomplishments and hope to welcome you back to Martin County to build your careers and strengthen our local agricultural community.
Sydney Beseke
Sydney Beseke is from Sherburn, MN, and has been actively involved in 4-H and FFA throughout high school, serving as both President and Secretary of her 4-H club. She grew up helping on her grandparents’ farm in rural Dunnell and spends summers raising and showing pigs at fairs and events. This fall, Sydney plans to attend Iowa State University to major in Agricultural Studies.
Ellie Nelson
Ellie Nelson is a senior at Martin County West High School and is active in 4-H, FFA, WSCA, and NHS. She will attend Iowa State University this fall to study Animal Science, with plans to pursue a doctorate in Veterinary Medicine and work with large animals. Ellie has shown horses, cattle, and sheep, and currently owns two show horses.
To qualify, applicants must have a minimum GPA of 3.0, be high school seniors entering their freshman year at a four-year college, and plan to pursue a degree and career in agriculture or food-related industries. The Agri-Business Committee reviews applications and interviews candidates to select the two scholarship recipients each year. For more information about Fairmont Area Chamber of Commerce Scholarship Opportunities go to: https://fairmontchamber.org/apply-for-scholarships/