IL Corn Growers Association Announces Scholarship Recipients

Five Outstanding Students Named to Receive Support for Careers in Agriculture

The IL Corn Growers Association (ICGA) is proud to announce the recipients of its 2026 scholarship program. Each year, the ICGA awards scholarships to exceptional students who demonstrate a commitment to agriculture, academic excellence, and community leadership.

The ICGA scholarship program is designed to invest in the future of the industry by supporting students pursuing degrees and careers in agricultural fields. Below, meet the five remarkable individuals selected for this honor.

Meet the 2026 Scholarship Recipients

Haley Bode

Waterloo, Illinois

Agriculture Systems & Education

Haley Bode grew up on a small specialty crop farm where her family raises sunflowers for agritourism, shaping her deep connection to agriculture. Now a junior at Southern Illinois University Carbondale, she is pursuing a career in agricultural education.

She serves as the Union County Farm Bureau Ag in the Classroom Coordinator, is active in Collegiate Farm Bureau, and is president of Sigma Alpha. She also balances part time nannying and work with Illinois Farm Bureau, reflecting her strong commitment to service.

“Receiving the IL Corn Scholarship represents more than financial support. It reflects recognition, opportunity, and responsibility. Because of IL Corn, students like myself are able to truly succeed by focusing more on academic and professional growth rather than financial barriers. It also serves as motivation to continue striving for excellence. This scholarship encourages me to give back to the agricultural community, whether through advocacy, education, or service. It reminds me that I am part of something larger, a network of individuals committed to advancing agriculture and supporting future generations. Ultimately, receiving the IL Corn Scholarship is both an honor and a commitment to continue learning and contributing to the future of agriculture."

Wyatt Draper

Hutsonville, Illinois

Agriculture

A freshman at Lake Land College who currently serves as Student Trustee, Wyatt Draper runs his own cow/calf beef cattle herd and feedlot operation at home, raises show pigs, and assists with row crop operations on the family farm. His FFA involvement spanned chapter, section, and state officer levels, and his sights are set firmly on returning home one day to take over the family operation.

Off the farm, Wyatt has a couple of unexpected skills up his sleeve: he’s an amateur harmonica player and describes himself as an aspiring professional pickleball competitor.

“This scholarship shows me there are organizations that will go to bat for me, as a young farmer. The IL Corn Growers Association is so impactful to us in the industry, aiding in the 2% that feed the 100%. With the help of this scholarship, I can go to school pursuing my passion- feeding the world, right here in the heartland."

Aidan Knobloch

Buckingham, Illinois

Agricultural Policy, Economics & Pre-Law

Aidan Knobloch grew up on a cattle farm in Illinois, where agriculture has been central to his life. He manages his own beef business, has held leadership roles in FFA, 4-H, and the Illinois Junior Hereford Association, and plans to study agricultural policy and pre-law at the University of Illinois, aiming to return as an advocate for rural communities.

Aidan is also a black belt in Soo Bahk Do, a martial art he started at age five. The discipline gained from martial arts influences his work in agriculture and leadership.

“This scholarship represents far more than financial support, it is an investment in my future and in the future of agriculture. As someone who plans to study agricultural policy, economics, and pre‑law at the University of Illinois before pursuing law school, this scholarship helps reduce the financial burden of higher education and allows me to stay actively involved in the organizations and leadership roles that have shaped me. It also reinforces my commitment to returning to Illinois as an advocate for farmers, livestock producers, and rural communities. Receiving this scholarship is a meaningful reminder that the agricultural community believes in my goals and is willing to support the next generation of leaders."

Bailey Leach

Springfield, Illinois

Agribusiness

Bailey Leach, the oldest of four daughters, grew up balancing agriculture and athletics which was critical in her building work ethic, discipline, and resilience. She takes pride in being a role model for younger girls, both on and off the field.

Her journey hasn’t been easy. After major back surgery in eighth grade, she had to relearn basic movements. Instead of giving up, she turned that challenge into strength for herself and her three younger sisters watching her.

“This scholarship means everything to me. It not only helps support me financially, but it also reminds me that someone believes in my future. It motivates me to keep working hard and take full advantage of my education so I can give back to the agriculture community one day. I am very thankful to IL Corn for believing in me.”

Lane Perry

Paris, Illinois

Agribusiness - Farm & Ranch Management

Lane Perry, a 2026 graduate of Marshall High School, grew up on his family farm where a hands on upbringing in production agriculture sparked his passion for the industry. This fall, he will attend Oklahoma State University in Stillwater and plans to pursue a career in agricultural sales while continuing to farm.

He was active in FFA and 4 H throughout high school, and outside of agriculture enjoys playing guitar and has even considered trying his hand as a rodeo clown.

“This scholarship means a lot. It will help me chase my dreams. Receiving support from organizations that believe in me and my future is incredible. I plan on using this scholarship to get a degree that will set me up for a career where I can support others like how this scholarship supports me. "