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Bonnie Johnson
May 20, 2025
Media ArticleAbigail Shaeffer of Granville County is one of 31 students across North Carolina awarded the 2025 N.C. State Fair Youth Livestock Scholarship. The announcement was made by Agriculture Commissioner Steve Troxler.
The scholarship supports high school seniors and college students who have taken part in the N.C. State Fair’s junior livestock or market turkey shows. Recipients, including Shaeffer, demonstrated strong involvement in livestock events, academic excellence, and community participation. Shaeffer plans to attend the University of North Carolina or East Carolina University.
Since the scholarship program began in 2015, a total of $611,000 has been awarded to deserving students. Funding comes from a portion of sales during the N.C. State Fair’s Sale of Champions, which supports young individuals who are active in agriculture.
The number of scholarships given each year depends on available funds and the number of qualified applicants. Due to high support at the 2024 Sale of Champions, 30 scholarships worth $2,000 each were awarded in 2025. In addition, one $2,500 scholarship was sponsored by the Farm Credit Associations of North Carolina.
“This scholarship program continues to invest in the next generation of agricultural leaders and advocates, and I am proud that they all have a solid understanding of where their food comes from because of their experience showing livestock,” said Agriculture Commissioner Steve Troxler. “Congratulations to this year’s recipients.”
Applicants were evaluated anonymously by a selection committee. Factors included their livestock show involvement, academic records, extracurricular activities, and an essay submission.
This scholarship helps students pursue higher education and encourages their continued involvement in the agriculture industry—building a future for farming and food systems across North Carolina.
Photo by:newsbreak.com
