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Maryland Farm Bureau Announces 2026 Scholarship Recipients

Caroline Kimball from Ridgely Awarded $2000

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DAVIDSONVILLE, MD – The Maryland Farm Bureau (MDFB) is proud to announce its 2026 scholarship recipients, awarding financial support to five promising students dedicated to academic excellence and the future of the agricultural industry.

Each student will receive a $2,000 scholarship to support their higher education. Three of the awards were granted to students pursuing degrees directly within food, agriculture, or natural resource disciplines, while two were awarded to students pursuing other majors or minoring in an agricultural field.

“Maryland agriculture is only as strong as its next generation,” said MDFB President Jamie Raley. “That’s why we are honored to support the educational pursuits of these young leaders who are slated to become the future of our industry. We offer our sincerest congratulations to each of this year’s awardees.”

To qualify, applicants submitted a comprehensive application and an essay addressing the critical balance of environmental and financial sustainability. Students were asked to explore how farmers and ranchers can effectively advance environmental stewardship—focusing on soil health and local ecosystems—while maintaining the economic viability of their operations.

2026 Scholarship Awardees

Recipients or their parents or guardians have to be a member of Maryland Farm Bureau to apply. Selection was made by a scholarship committee designated by MDFB.

  • John Chapple (Talbot County) – University of Mississippi
  • Caroline Clark (Frederick County) – University of Maryland, College Park
  • Caroline Kimball (Caroline County) – Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University
  • Kyrksen Plano-Faber (Montgomery County) – Montgomery College
  • Elijah Weddle (Washington County) – Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University

The Maryland Farm Bureau Scholarship Program is made possible through the generous voluntary donations of members and supporters of the Maryland Farm Bureau Foundation. Photos of recipients can be found on Facebook.