Much like farmers, the Ohio Soybean Association’s (OSA) work is never really done. There are always new things on our horizon and that’s what makes it such an exciting organization to lead. As our combines are being stored away and fall turns into winter, OSA has some exciting things coming down the pipeline for our members.

First, I want to thank the participants and sponsors of our annual Harvest Classic golf outing, which took place at the beginning of September. This outing helps to fund the important work OSA does on behalf of the soybean industry, much of which would not be possible without the help of our sponsors. Every year I am overwhelmed with the generosity and enthusiasm of our partners and it just goes to show what a tight-knit community Ohio agriculture is.

Another annual OSA event is quickly approaching — the 2022 Ohio Grain Farmers Symposium! This event, which takes place in partnership with the Ohio Corn and Wheat Growers Association, brings together the experts in our field for a day of learning and networking. We welcome you to join us on December 2 at the Nationwide & Ohio Farm Bureau 4-H Center. I  have gotten to peek at the agenda and I know that the event is full of interesting and important information for farmers. Find more information and register at www.ohiograinfarmerssymposium.org.

Lastly, I wanted to bring to your attention several scholarship opportunities for college students. OSA will be offering one $1,000 scholarship to students of any major with a passion for the soybean industry. The scholarship will be applied the 2023–2024 school year. All majors are eligible, but applicants must show a strong interest in the soybean industry and agricultural advocacy. Applicants must be enrolled as a full-time student at a college, university or technical school and have a 3.0 GPA or higher. Applicants must also be immediate family (child or grandchild) of a current OSA member OR a Student or Young Adult Member (SYA) of the Ohio Soybean Association (SYA membership is free). Applications are due by January 13, 2023 at 11:59 p.m. and can be found at https://forms.gle/7hciQU27fPy11GB78. For more information on OSA’s scholarship contact Emilie Regula Hancock at eregula.hancock@soyohio.org.

The Ohio Soybean Council Foundation also has $64,000 in scholarships available to both undergraduate and graduate students this year. Applications for these scholarships are also due by January 13, 2023 at 11:59 p.m. Further details about the 14 scholarships are available on page 11 or by visiting www.soyohio.org/scholarships.

Wishing you and your family a safe and happy holiday season!

Patrick Knouff

Ohio Soybean Association President

Shelby County