Rockael Stubblefield's Future of Agriculture Scholarship

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The Rockael Stubblefield Future of Agriculture Trust is dedicated to empowering the next generation of agricultural entrepreneurs. Your support can make a difference in shaping the future of agriculture and inspiring young minds to innovate and lead in this vital industry.

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Meet the Students

Real Stories. Real Impact. Real Growth.

Every grant awarded through the Rockael Stubblefield Future of Agriculture Trust is more than a financial gift—it's a step toward a dream. In this section, you'll hear directly from students who are pursuing careers in agriculture and carrying forward the legacy Rockael believed in so deeply.

Their stories are a powerful reminder of why this mission matters and how your support helps shape the future of agriculture.

Sara Tuschhoff

Rockael Stubblefield's Future of Agriculture Charitable Trust

Growing up deeply involved in agriculture, I quickly realized it’s more than just an industry. It’s a lifestyle, a community, and a foundation built on responsibility, work ethic, and compassion. From the moment I stepped into a show ring, I knew I had found my place. Over the years, my passion for agriculture has only grown, along with a desire to give back.

That passion led me to pursue a degree in agricultural business, not just as a career path but as a calling. In June 2019, while showing at Junior Nationals, I toured the Jerry Litton Agri-Science Learning Center in Chillicothe, Missouri. Walking through the barns and classrooms left a lasting impression on me. I saw firsthand the power of giving kids, especially those without an ag background, hands-on opportunities to learn and grow through livestock.

Since then, I’ve carried a vision of creating a similar space in my hometown—a place where any child, regardless of background, can experience the pride and life lessons that come from raising and showing livestock. My degree is helping me gain the leadership and business skills needed to turn that vision into reality.

This grant isn’t just financial support. It’s a belief in my dream. It’s a reminder that others see value in the future I’m working toward. That encouragement motivates me daily to keep learning, keep leading, and keep building something that will impact generations to come. This is my why, and it’s just the beginning.

Cason Thomas

Hi, my name is Cason Thomas, and I’m heading into my sophomore year of college. This past year has been nothing short of amazing. Thanks to your support, I’ve had the chance to gain real-life experience in the career field I’m passionate about agricultural sales.

I’ve spent time working with brand-new farm equipment and learning the ins and outs of the agriculture industry. Your generous donations and continued support have made these opportunities possible, and I’m incredibly grateful.

This summer, I’m interning with Standlee Western Forage. My daily responsibilities include visiting farm and home stores, learning about the products, and connecting with customers. It’s allowed me to build relationships across the state of Missouri and gain valuable hands-on experience.

Thank you for investing in my future and helping me leave my mark on the agriculture industry.

Cierra Britton

My passion is to continue advocating for the agriculture industry by sharing its stories, promoting its values, and connecting people to where their food comes from. Through marketing and social media, I hope to build awareness and appreciation for the people and practices behind agriculture.

This grant is more than just financial support—it’s an opportunity. It allows me to focus on my education without the added stress of how I’ll afford it. It helps cover tuition, books, and essential expenses, giving me the freedom to pursue academic and leadership opportunities that will shape my future.

I am deeply grateful for the support. It brings me closer to my career goals and fuels my desire to give back to the agriculture industry and my community. Thank you for believing in my future and helping me make a meaningful impact.

Marlee Jones

I am a student at the University of Missouri Columbia, pursuing a degree in Animal Sciences with a minor in Captive Wild Animal Management. After graduation, I hope to use my education to work in an exotic animal rehabilitation facility, where I can help restore health and wellness to animals in need.

Any scholarship support I receive will go directly toward tuition and internship opportunities that allow me to gain hands-on experience and broaden my knowledge in the field of zoology. I’m incredibly thankful for the opportunity to continue learning and growing in a career I’m truly passionate about.

Morgan Webster

I will be attending the University of Missouri this fall to pursue a degree in Animal Sciences, with plans to continue on to veterinary school. Growing up around horses and agriculture has given me a deep appreciation for both the animals and the hardworking people whose dedication keeps the industry moving forward. Through those experiences, I discovered a passion for animal health and performance. My goal is to become an equine veterinarian specializing in sports medicine so I can help horses stay healthy and perform at their highest potential.

This grant will help support my education through tuition, books, and other college expenses as I work toward that goal. I am incredibly grateful for this opportunity and for the investment in my future. It brings me one step closer to a career that combines everything I love: horses, veterinary medicine, and the agriculture industry that has always been a part of my life.

Qualification Guidelines

The Rockael Stubblefield Future of Agriculture is a charitable trust designed to inspire young entrepreneurs with a history in agriculture in pursuing their future careers. We are choosing a local graduate from either Cuba, Bourbon, Steelville, or St. James to receive a grant that helps provide financial support in building their own ag-related business or furthering their education in the ag related career of their choosing.

Applicant requirements:

• Must be a member of 4-H or FFA

• Must have a reference of good character from Ag leaders/employers

• Must have a financial need

Application Process:

o Essay

History/experience with agriculture
Explain why you want to pursue a career in agriculture
Financial need/financial plan

⋄ Trade school/university- Will money be going towards tuition or elsewhere?

⋄ Ag business- How would you invest the majority of the money? What are the outside expenditures? When do you plan on making a profit?

What positive impact could it have on the community?

o Interview with the scholarship board

The recipient who is awarded this scholarship must be willing to speak at the next fall fundraiser to explain how the money received is being used to pursue their dreams in agriculture and their current progress in achieving their goals.

APPLY HERE

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