The Growing Ag Scholarship recognizes students committed to shaping the future of agriculture through innovation, leadership, and practical solutions. Whether pursuing animal science, ag business, veterinary medicine, farm management, public policy, or ag law, recipients are forward-thinking individuals dedicated to tackling the industry’s toughest challenges. This scholarship supports those who are passionate about advancing agriculture’s growth and sustainability through creative problem-solving and impactful ideas.
Winners are selected by a committee of Minnesota pig farmers who are proud to invest in the next generation of pork advocates.
Meet the 2025 Growing Ag recipients below!
Bryn Anderson
Bryn is a veterinary student at the University of Minnesota College of Veterinary Medicine with a strong focus on swine health and production. Her passion for agriculture began in 4-H and grew through internships with organizations such as Christensen Farms and the Swine Veterinary Internship Program. Bryn has also gained global perspective through a study abroad trip to Vietnam, where she explored swine production practices and sustainability. Her goal is to become a veterinarian who supports pork producers with practical solutions that prioritize animal welfare, production outcomes, and long-term sustainability. Bryn is driven to give back to the industry that gave her a sense of purpose and community.
Carson Ruen
Carson is a student at Iowa State University pursuing a double major in Agricultural Business with an emphasis in Finance and International Agriculture. Originally from a crop and livestock farm near Lanesboro, Minnesota, Carson’s passion for agriculture was shaped by years of hands-on experience and leadership through 4-H, FFA, and various internships. On campus, he is active in the Iowa Corn Growers Collegiate Club and the Agricultural Business Club. With a strong interest in agricultural finance, Carson hopes to work in credit or risk management for an ag-based institution or potentially return to his family’s farming operation. His goal is to help producers make informed financial decisions that ensure long-term sustainability for the pork industry and beyond.
Kendra Blaschko
Kendra is an incoming veterinary student at the University of Minnesota, with plans to specialize in food animal medicine. Raised on a multigenerational farm, she gained early experience working with meat goats and beef cattle, which sparked her long-term goal of becoming a food animal veterinarian. Kendra has worked at the Swine Vet Center in St. Peter, Minnesota, where she assisted with research, diagnostics, and trial preparation. She has also presented her own swine research at national conferences, highlighting her dedication to innovation and animal health. Kendra hopes to continue contributing to swine medicine through both veterinary care and research that advances production practices across the industry.
Looking ahead?
Applications for the 2026 Growing Ag Scholarship will open in March 2026.
Click here to explore all Minnesota Pork scholarship opportunities!
