Minnesota Teach Ag is proud to celebrate 25 years of the Minnesota Agricultural Education Leadership Council (MAELC) investing in the future of Agricultural Education. Since 1998, MAELC has awarded over 630 scholarships, totaling $847,000, to students pursuing careers in Agricultural Education. These scholarships have been instrumental in shaping the careers of educators who inspire the next generation of agricultural leaders.
Making an Impact on Future Educators
MAELC scholarships have proven to be a game-changer for many students. A recent survey found that over 70% of scholarship recipients were somewhat or greatly influenced to stay in their Agricultural Education major because of MAELC’s support. More than half said the scholarships played a role in their decision to become agriculture teachers.
Kayla Brune, an agriculture teacher at Willmar High School, said:
“Scholarship dollars from MAELC helped me begin my career in Agricultural Education, and their continued partnership has proven to be incredibly valuable as a classroom teacher.”
Joshua Muñoz, now an agriculture teacher at Como Park High School, shared:
“If not for receiving MAELC scholarships while a student at the University of Minnesota, I would not be an agriculture teacher today. These scholarships allowed me to expose urban students to the world of agriculture, CTE, and the abundant opportunities through FFA and Summer Youth programs.”
Apply for the Next Undergraduate Scholarship
The MAELC Undergraduate Agricultural Education Scholarship supports students committed to becoming licensed agriculture teachers, addressing the critical shortage in Minnesota and beyond. Scholarships of $1,000–$2,000 are available for full-time students at SMSU, UMN-Crookston, or UMN-Twin Cities who will student teach between Fall 2025 and Spring 2027. Applicants must submit an online application, including essay responses, a resume, and an unofficial transcript, by February 1, 2025. Awards are based on academic merit, leadership, financial need, and dedication to teaching agriculture. Funds will be disbursed in September 2025 and January 2026. Apply today!
Agricultural Education for All Scholarship
The Agricultural Education for All Scholarship, offered by MAELC, supports undergraduate and graduate students pursuing careers in agricultural education, particularly those underrepresented within the agriculture teacher field. Scholarships of up to $5,000 are available for students at Southwest Minnesota State University, University of Minnesota–Crookston, or University of Minnesota–Twin Cities. Applications are accepted three times a year—February 1, July 1, and November 1. Selection is based on academic merit, commitment to teaching, and financial need.