Paul Moeggenberg Family Youth Agricultural Scholarship
Scholarship Sponsored by Mt. Pleasant Area Community Foundation
The Paul Moeggenberg Family Youth Agricultural Scholarship was created to honor a man who dedicated his life to faith, family, community, and farming. At 15 years old, Paul left high school to help run his parents’ farm while his older brothers served in World War II. In 1955, he and his new wife, Eleanor, bought a farm in Leaton, Michigan. Together they operated a thriving dairy farm and raised eleven children.
Although much of Paul’s time was spent working the land, he was always a patient and loving husband, father, grandfather, uncle, brother, and community and church leader. He used the farm as a classroom—teaching life lessons and opening his doors to nieces, nephews, neighbors, and anyone in need. Paul believed that helping others was life’s greatest purpose, and his farm was the means by which he reached out to many.
This scholarship is offered by the family to perpetuate Paul’s spirit of giving through agriculture. While the award represents only a small portion of a recipient’s educational journey, the family hopes winners will carry forward Paul’s generous outlook as they begin careers in agriculture.
Scholarship Eligibility Criteria:
- Applicant must be a graduating senior from a high school in Isabella County.
- Applicant must intend to pursue a career in agriculture.
- Applicant must have a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.5.
- Applicant must have participated in a youth organization (examples: 4-H, Boy Scouts, Girl Scouts, church youth group, FFA).
Selection Preferences: When evaluating qualified candidates, preference will be given to applicants whose career goals, experiences, and background most closely reflect the following:
- A stated commitment to a career in Production Agriculture, as explained in the applicant’s essay.
- A farm upbringing or strong farm ties, described in the essay.
- Demonstrated financial need, described in the applicant’s essay.
- Documented volunteer work and community service, as listed on the scholarship application.