By Farris Haley, ASA Industry Relations Manager
The future of agriculture depends entirely on cultivating bright, innovative minds. Recognizing this need, the American Soybean Association and BASF Corporation have partnered since 2008 to invest in students who possess a deep passion for the farming industry. For high school seniors preparing to take their next step into higher education, the annual ASA-BASF Soy Scholarship provides a substantial financial launchpad to turn those academic dreams into reality.
2026 Soy Scholarship Winner Luke McCrea of Minnesota
To qualify for this competitive award, applicants must be current high school seniors planning to major in an agriculture-related field, such as agronomy, agriscience education, agricultural communications, or agribusiness, and must be the child or grandchild of a current member of ASA or a state soybean association.
This program awards a total of $7,000, disbursed in two $3,500 semester increments, supporting students for their first year of higher education. To secure the second half of the funding, the recipient must maintain successful academic progress and remain in good standing with their chosen institution.
The selection process is handled by a dedicated committee of soybean farmer leaders. Candidates are evaluated based on academic excellence, civic activities, and demonstrated leadership potential, often reflected through participation in organizations like the National FFA Organization or 4-H.
“The future of agriculture depends on talented young leaders who bring passion, innovation, and fresh perspectives to our industry,” said Scott Kay, vice president of BASF Agricultural Solutions. “BASF is proud to continue our longstanding partnership with the American Soybean Association and the Soy Scholarship program to support young leaders who will help drive future innovation in farming, the biggest job on earth.”
By backing driven students, ASA and BASF help ensure that tomorrow’s scientists, teachers, policymakers, and farmers have the foundational support required to address modern agricultural challenges. Past winners, such as Luke McCrea of Minnesota, have leveraged the award to fund degrees in agricultural studies at major institutions like Iowa State University, demonstrating the scholarship’s role as a vital steppingstone for the next generation of ag innovators.
“Winning this scholarship has completely supported my studies this year,” said McCrea, reflecting on the impact of the award. “It’s allowed me to fully focus on my studies as I begin this new phase of my life. Coming from my family’s farm where we grow soybeans, it feels like I’m truly supported by an industry I’ve known all my life.”
The ASA Soy Scholarship program emphasizes grassroots recognition, aiming to strengthen the connection between state affiliates and future industry leaders. It is a great opportunity for winners to be recognized at the local and state levels to foster these relationships. McCrea attended the ASA July board meeting and interviewed with the Minnesota Soybean Growers Association communications team. He was also able to meet with several directors from the Minnesota Soybean Growers Association during their Hill visits in Washington, D.C.
Applications for the 2027-2028 Soy Scholarship will be accepted online from Oct. 1 through Dec. 31, 2026. Eligible students are encouraged to visit soygrowers.com to submit their applications before the deadline.
The post From High School to Higher Education: Funding Your Ag Passion With Soy Scholarship appeared first on American Soybean Association.
