BASF Supports Future Wheat Leaders

Scholarships Support Future Leaders In Agriculture

The National Wheat Foundation NWF has announced the recipients of the BASF Wheat Scholarships for 2026 recognizing two college students who show strong dedication to agriculture and the wheat industry. With support from BASF each student will receive a $2500 scholarship to help continue their education.

Jacob Bingaman was selected as one of the scholarship recipients. He is currently attending Oregon State University where he is pursuing a degree in Ag and Food Business Management. Jacob stood out to the selection committee because of his strong academic record active involvement in extracurricular activities and his thoughtful essay explaining the importance of wheat. His recommendation letter also highlighted his work ethics and personal character.

Jacob received high praise from his FFA advisor Jim Can't who wrote “He is detailed strives for excellence and cares deeply about his work the people around him and the outcomes of every task he undertakes.” The National Wheat Foundation congratulated Jacob for his dedication and achievements in agriculture.

The second scholarship recipient is Paul McCalister from Abernathy, Texas. Paul is studying Ag Business at West Texas A&M University. He has clear career goals focused on agricultural policy food security for rural economic development and strengthening global wheat markets. Paul has shown his passion for agriculture through academic efforts of community involvement and personal dedication.

The selection committee noted Paul’s determination of persistence and strong desire to make a positive impact beyond his local community. His commitment to agriculture and leadership potential made him a strong candidate for the scholarship.

“Selecting the scholarship recipients each year is one of our favorite things to do” said Ben Scholz, Texas farmer and Chair of the NWF Scholarship Committee. “It brings us joy to recognize so much potential in these young applicants and we are so happy to see young people wanting to get involved in agriculture.”

The National Wheat Foundation thanked all applicants and encouraged students who were not selected to apply again next year. The organization also expressed sincere appreciation to BASF for its continued partnership and support of agricultural education.

For more information about the scholarship program interested students can contact Anne Osborne, Executive Director of the National Wheat Foundation.

For more information about the scholarship program contact Anne Osborne, Executive Director, National Wheat Foundation (aosborne@wheatworld.org).