Congratulations to our 2025 scholarship winners, Jay Lemstra, Joseph Aguiar and Nicholas Lemstra. The scholarship committee selected these three outstanding students based on their excellent academic and extracurricular achievements, written essay, and, new this year, an in-person interview.
These scholarships are awarded to students pursuing a career or vocation in the field of agriculture. While each student has different plans for their future in agriculture, we are confident that they will all serve as excellent contributors to the industry.
High School Scholarship
Jay Lemstra is the winner of the High School Scholarship. Following graduation from Central Valley Christian School, Jay plans to attend Dordt University in Sioux Center, Iowa, and study agricultural business. Jay has gained valuable hands-on experience from working on his family’s farm and is now looking forward to learning more about the business side of farming. One day, Jay hopes to own his own custom farming business.
Harrison B. Smith Scholarship
The Harrison B. Smith Scholarship was awarded to Joseph Aguiar. Joseph is currently a student at Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo, studying Agricultural Communications with minors in both Agriculture Business and Water Policy. Joseph has interned with lobbying firms in both Sacramento and Washington, D.C. Following graduation, he hopes to either attend law school and then eventually become a partner at an ag-focused lobbying firm or work in government relations for an agriculture trade association. We look forward to watching Joseph advocate for the industry in the future.
Charles Coggins Scholarship
Nicholas Lemstra was awarded the Charles Coggins Scholarship. Nicholas is currently a student at Dordt University studying Agricultural Business. Nicholas gained hands-on experience working on his family’s farming operation, where he completed tasks such as welding/metal work, operating tractors/implements, and servicing equipment. Upon earning his degree, he plans to pursue a career in production agriculture, implementing sustainable practices while maximizing productivity.
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