2000 ONTARIO DAIRY YOUTH SCHOLARSHIPS

Youth from all six dairy breeds are eligible for this award which is funded by the Ontario Dairy Youth Trust Fund and the Ontario Holstein Branch.

Selection criteria is primarily based upon the applicant’s agricultural background. Key components are 4-H and Junior Farmer involvement, community activities and future goals.

Four scholarships, of $500 each, are awarded annually. Two are presented to students enrolled at a college or university, in a diploma program, while the other two are awarded to students completing a degree.

2000 Degree Winners


  • Nancy Metcalf, Bowmanville
    Nancy is entering her fourth year at the University of Guelph, studying towards her Bachelor of Science in Agriculture. Nancy has been involved in 4-H for 10 years, completing a total of 38 clubs. Her enthusiasm for class involvement and organizing numerous events was rewarded by receiving the class spirit award in 1998/99. Nancy is interested in research and lab analysis, especially animal nutrition and every chance she gets, she still helps on the farm.

  • Mike Steele, Thamesford
    Mike is also entering is fourth year of Bachelor of Science Degree in Agriculture at the University of Guelph. Since the summer of 1999 he has been working for the University of Guelph for two professors, however does work on the family farm on weekends when not doing research. During his nine years in 4-H, Mike obtained numerous accomplishments such as; Champion Showman at the President's Cup at the Royal, Champion Judge of Ontario 4-H Inter-County Dairy competition and as a result of this was a team member representing Ontario at the World Dairy Expo in 1996. Mike plans to do his Masters in Science after his degree and will base his career in the agricultural sector. He also has a wide range of activities outside the dairy industry, which includes being a tutor, part of the Guelph Big Brother Program, skiing, and playing several musical instruments.

    2000 Diploma Winners

  • Kathryn Johnson, Thorndale
    This September, Kathryn will be entering into her 2nd year of the Associate Diploma in Agriculture Program at the University of Guelph. In the past ten years, she has been actively involved with local and Ontario 4-H, having completed 22 projects and received numberous awards recognizing her efforts such as Top Showperson and 4-H Achiever of the Year. Kathryn will also be working part-time for the Royal Winter Fair this upcoming fall. She is also very active in a number of school and community groups such as being a member of the Girl Guides of Canada for 10 years, a Junior Farmer member, OAC class executive and several different types of sports.

  • Leanne Russworm, Mildmay
    Studying agriculture at the University of Guelph, Leanne still manages to help with daily chores on the family farm. As a 4-H member for 9 years, Leanne has achieved a number of accomplishments such as 1999 Bruce County Spirit of 4-H Award, Grand Champion Showperson at Gencor Challenge in 1999 (as a junior), and having placed in the top eight for showmanship in 4 out of 5 years at the Scotiabank Hays Classic. Leanne plans to return to the home farm operation or find employment on another dairy operation when finished school and one day hopes to own her own dairy herd. Outside the industry, she has also been active in the Roots of Bruce classroom project, College Royal, OAC executive and the step-dancing/clogging group.



    The Ontario Holstein Branch wishes to congratulate all the young people selected and encourage all agricultural students to apply in future years. The Branch would also like to thank those who applied and wish them much success with their upcoming studies. We look forward to their continued involvement in the agricultural industry.


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