As a playoff of our Scholarship Throwback Thursday, today we bring to you a GRAS Scholar Wayback Wednesday. Allison Witzel was a scholarship recipient in 2014.

Here is a look at what Allison has been up to since winning the scholarship.

What has your professional journey looked like since winning your GRAS scholarship?
“Since being awarded the GRAS scholarship I have obtained my Diploma in Agriculture from the University of Guelph, Ridgetown Campus. I then moved on to further my education at Olds College in Alberta, graduating with my Bachelor of Applied Science degree in Agriculture Business. Being the recipient of this scholarship was a blessing. The generous donation was able to help me financially. After receiving my Agribusiness degree, I came home and pursued my dream job as a Farm Management Support Advisor. An FMS opportunity came up with Lely Center Woodstock! After just over six months, another door opened for me to be able to move closer to home and still keep the same job but work with the wonderful team at Grand River Robotics (another Lely dealership). As an FMS advisor I provide guidance and assistance to dairy producers who transition to automated milking and feeding systems. What I love most about my job is that I learn something new every day. Working with technology in agriculture is very rewarding because things are rapidly evolving. I am also very grateful for the people I work with (my co workers and customers) and of course being able to work with cows?.”

What did receiving a scholarship mean to you? 
 ” This scholarship meant the world to me. Volunteering in the Fergus/Elora/Alma communities growing up was always a highlight of my youth. I could pursue an education in the Agriculture industry and give back to the community that shaped me ? The GRAS scholarship enabled me to step into a positive future where I could follow my passion and come back to share what I learned with others and help farmers optimize their management practices and achieve their goals “

Thanks for the update Allison, we’re happy to have you back in the Grand River Community! Since its inception in 2006, the Scholarship and Bursary Program has awarded $216,500 to 118 students. For updates on more of our past scholars follow us on Facebook @GrandRiverAg.

If you know a student with a permanent residence in Wellington County, Perth County or the Region of Waterloo who is currently enrolled in a college or university with an agricultural or environmentally focused program they can apply for a scholarship of up to $2,500.