Scholarship Update: Where Are They Now?

It’s fun to catch up with our former scholarship winners and learn where their studies have taken them. This month, we caught up with 2022 Columbia REA academic scholarship recipient Hadley Beechinor, who will graduate from the University of Idaho in December.

I’ve had another successful year at the University of Idaho, earning a 4.0 GPA for both the Fall and Spring semesters while completing 22 credits each term. My classes have become increasingly interesting and aligned with my career goals as I delve deeper into my majors.

Thankfully, my busy class schedule did not stop me from continuing in other activities and leadership roles. This year, I served as the Vice President of Recruitment for the CALS Ambassador Team, Vice President of Finance for Kappa Alpha Theta sorority, Vice President of the Collegiate Young Farmers and Ranchers Club, and Secretary of the Agricultural Risk Management Club.

Additionally, I conducted my own undergraduate research project through a USDA grant, analyzing the impact of Avian Influenza on the price spread among various egg types under the guidance of the Agricultural Economics Department.

To further prepare for my career, I attended several industry-related conferences, including the Agriculture Future of America Leaders Conference and the Train, Elevator, and Grain Merchants Association Meeting, both held in Kansas City. My time has continued in Kansas City as I am currently spending the summer working as a commodity merchandising intern with The Andersons, Inc.

After graduation, I plan to pursue a career in commodity merchandising and risk management, particularly within the livestock production sector, while also contributing to producer education in risk management strategies.

As I near the end of my undergraduate studies and prepare for graduation in December, I want to share how much I truly appreciate the support of Columbia REA in my college journey. I am so grateful for the opportunity I have had to work towards discovering my passions while jointly growing as an individual and expanding my knowledge.

My time at the University of Idaho has been far more fulfilling than I could have ever imagined, and many of my experiences would not have been possible without your generosity.”

Congratulations, Hadley! From your friends at Columbia REA!