Calhoun County, AL – Calhoun County native and Auburn University senior Will West was awarded a $1,750 scholarship from the Alabama Farmers Agriculture Foundation (AFAF) and the Calhoun County Farmers Federation. West, who is majoring in agricultural science, was recognized during the Alabama Farmers Federation’s scholarship reception on September 23, 2024, at Lazenby Farms in Auburn.
West, alongside 76 other students, was celebrated for his dedication to agriculture. Federation President Jimmy Parnell, Calhoun County Farmers Federation President Jon Hegeman, and Federation District 6 Director Phillip Hunter were present at the event to honor West’s achievements.
This scholarship is part of the Alabama Farmers Federation’s initiative to support future leaders in agriculture, forestry, and related fields. In total, $136,000 in scholarships was awarded to Auburn University students through this partnership.
The program highlights the importance of investing in the future of agriculture, as shared by John Braxton Rhodes of Escambia County. “Alfa has impacted our lives in several ways,” said Rhodes’ mother, Susan. “As a single mother, the cost of college tuition is overwhelming, and this scholarship has made it possible for my son to succeed.”
The Alabama Farmers Federation scholarship program aims to cultivate the next generation of agriculturists, with Federation President Jimmy Parnell emphasizing the importance of hard work, initiative, and building strong relationships within the agriculture community.
The scholarship application for 2025-2026 opens on November 1, 2024.