Judy McCarty Dairy Learning Center Announces 2026 Scholarship Recipients
June 4, 2026
For Immediate Release
Rexford, Kan. – The Judy McCarty Dairy Learning Center has announced the recipients of the Judy McCarty Dairy Learning Center Scholarship. This year, two outstanding students were awarded a $1,500 scholarship in recognition of their academic achievements, leadership potential, and commitment to serving rural communities.
Through this fund, Judy’s legacy of mentorship, learning, and unwavering support for youth in agriculture continues to inspire and empower future innovators.
The requirements to apply for the scholarship include: being currently enrolled college student or high school senior enrolled in a minimum of 12 credit hours per semester, must be a resident of Northwest Kansas (Cheyenne, Decatur, Gove, Logan, Rawlins, Scott, Sheridan, Sherman, Thomas, Wallace counties), cumulative GPA of 3.0 or higher, and submit a 500-word essay of assigned topic.
This year’s recipients are Abby Micek of Rawlins County and Veronica Catano of Scott County.
Micek currently attends Kansas State University where she is a junior pursuing a career in agricultural education. Raised with a strong agricultural background, she hopes to return to Northwest Kanas and make a lasting impact in the classroom.
Micek says, “I aspire to build a career as an ag teacher in Northwest Kansas, where I can give students a sense of belonging and potentially open doors to new opportunities that reflect the values I learned on the farm: integrity.
Catano currently attends Colby Community College where she is a sophomore pursuing a career in Veterinary Nursing. Her passion for animal care, mixed with a desire to serve, has shaped her educational and career goals.
Catano says, “Not only will I contribute my skills in animal care, but I will provide care to Spanish-speaking families who are unable to speak English fluently. I will make a positive impact while doing something I’m passionate about.”
The JMDLC Scholarship was established to support students who demonstrate dedication to agriculture industry and education. By investing in students like Micek and Catano, the JMDLC continues its mission of promoting lifelong education to strengthen the agricultural industries in communities across Northwest Kansas.
Dave McCarty says, “Our mom always believed in the power of education and the importance of investing in the next generation. It is a great honor to present this award in her memory and see her legacy continue through students who are pursuing careers in agriculture and making a positive difference in their communities.”
About The Judy McCarty Dairy Learning Center and JMDLC Scholarship
The Judy McCarty Dairy Learning Center is a non-profit organization committed to connecting people of all ages to where their fairy food comes from.
Recognizing that most people are several generations removed from farming, the JMDLC was established on-site at McCarty Family Farms. Named to honor the late mother of the current farm owners Mike, Clay, Dave, and Ken McCarty — the learning center welcomes the public to get a first-hand look at a real working dairy, just like Judy enjoyed doing for many years while on the farm.
The organization is also passionate about creating opportunities within agriculture for future generations, so we offer internships and scholarships to those interested in pursuing a career in ag.
For additional information about the scholarship and application submission visit jmdairylearningcenter.com/scholarships. Application deadline is March 1.