IL Corn Announces 2025 Scholarship Recipients

Tara Desmond
May 1, 2025

IL Corn Growers Association (ICGA) is proud to award five scholarships in the third year of its revived scholarship program.


“This program is one way we can invest in the next generation of ag professionals,” said Garrett Hawkins, ICGA President. “We’re excited to see strong interest from students who are passionate about agriculture, and we’re honored to help support their education and future in the industry.”


Get to know the five winners:

A woman in a plaid shirt is sitting in front of hay bales

Isabella Bunting

Emington, IL


“Growing up in the agricultural industry has sparked a passion for agriculture deep within my roots! Watching my grandpa, uncles, and dad farm my whole life and seeing the impact that they are making inspired me to continue my involvement in the agriculture industry.”

A woman in a white dress is standing next to a semi truck.

Kaylee Gerlach

Waggoner, IL


“Receiving this scholarship means so much to me. It not only supports my academic journey but also empowers me to continue advocating for agriculture by sharing real stories from the farm and educating the public about the importance of this industry. I’m grateful to IL Corn for providing me the opportunity to represent agriculture, stay connected to my roots, and continue working toward a future where rural communities and family farms are understood, valued, and celebrated.”

A woman is holding a small animal in her hands in front of a sign that says restrooms concessions

Kassidi Metcalf

Albion, IL


"Growing up on my family's row crop farm in Southern Illinois fostered my passion for agriculture. I am excited to be pursuing a career in agronomy, and I'm grateful for the support and opportunities that the IL Corn Scholarship provides!"

A woman in a green jacket and white shirt is smiling for the camera.

Paige Sierens

Annawan, IL


“Growing up on the family farm, I was taught the importance of agriculture from a young age. Agriculture is more than an industry, but a community. IL Corn supports not only Illinois producers but also future leaders in the agricultural industry. By providing numerous opportunities, including this scholarship, IL Corn invests in the future of agriculture. I am honored to receive this scholarship, which puts me one step closer to returning to my community and supporting agriculture after college.”

A woman in a brown shirt is standing in front of a white wall.

Aubrey Wall

Sorento, IL


“Being an agriculture major is crucial to me because without agriculture, nothing can get accomplished. We are the 2% that feeds 100%, so it is important to stay in the industry. This scholarship will help alleviate my financial burden as I pursue a bachelor's degree in agricultural education at the University of Illinois.”

Learn more about the scholarship here.

pork power l
November 20, 2025
The Illinois Pork Producers Association and IL Corn share a longstanding partnership that strengthens livestock production, boosts grain demand, and supports food banks through the Pork Power program. Learn how this collaboration benefits farmers and families across Illinois.
World map showing corn-based biofuel production and transport routes, with a tanker, and a corn graphic.
By Lyndi Allen November 20, 2025
Trade deals and tariff negotiations are increasingly critical as farmers conclude the U.S. corn and soybean harvest; new opportunities could ease profitability pressures
shane, jena and f
By Tara Desmond November 20, 2025
Ducks Unlimited’s Fletcher Morgan and Jenna Herrick share how farmer involvement is growing — and transforming — DU’s work across the Big Rivers Initiative
turkey farm
By Tara Desmond November 20, 2025
Discover how Illinois farmers help raise nearly 3 million turkeys each year, the vital role Illinois corn plays in their growth, and how these birds make their way from local farms to Thanksgiving tables nationwide.
graphic of a furnace filter made from corn
By Tara Desmond November 19, 2025
Discover how Aerterra is transforming U.S. corn into high-performance, PFAS-free furnace filters and redefining clean air with renewable, bio-based materials.
Ducks
By Lyndi Allen November 13, 2025
Ducks Unlimited partners with Illinois farmers—helping them “farm the best and conserve the rest.”
Show More