The National Cattlemen’s Foundation (NCF) is announcing an initiative to strengthen the future of the beef industry. Together with the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association (NCBA) and the CME Group, NCF will award ten $1,500 scholarships to outstanding students who are pursuing careers in the beef industry. The 2012-2013 Beef Industry Scholarships are open to graduating high school seniors or full-time undergraduate students enrolled at two-year or four-year institutions for the 2012-2013 school year.

Applicants must demonstrate a commitment to a career in the beef industry through classes, internships or life experiences. Fields of study for potential scholarship recipients may include education, communications, production, research or other areas related to the beef industry. John Lacey, interim chairman of NCF's board of trustees, says the scholarship program is aimed at helping future industry leaders.

“The Beef Industry Scholarships will help ensure a bright future for deserving students and for the beef industry in the U.S.,” says Lacey. “Investing in future industry leaders through contributions toward their continuing education is an important way to develop our industry and our young people.”

For more information on the scholarship, click here.