NSAC student wins new Outstanding Young Farmer scholarship

Robyn McCallum, a student at Nova Scotia Agricultural College (NSAC) in Truro, NS, is the first recipient of a new annual scholarship from Canada’s Outstanding Young Farmers (OYF) program. Robyn was chosen from 19 applicants, all pursing post secondary education in agriculture, for the $1,000 OYF Memorial Scholarship established in memory of the late Martin Streef.

Robyn grew up on Cowassaget Brook Farm, a 250-acre beef, berry and greenhouse farm in Tabusintac, NB operated by her parents and three younger siblings. Robyn is in her first year at NSAC, working towards a Bachelor of Science in agriculture in animal science, and is continuing a rich history at NSAC where her parents, aunt, grandparents and great grandparents all studied.

“I’m the only one from my high school that is going on to study agriculture and that makes this scholarship so exciting to receive,” says Robyn. “I haven't decided what I want to do after I graduate, but I know I’ll be part of agriculture – perhaps something to do with how climate change will influence agriculture in the future.”

As part of the scholarship nomination, each applicant was required to provide a short essay to answer the question “Why are you passionate about agriculture in Canada?” Robyn’s response included the opportunities to build a strong, united agricultural industry (National OYF President Brian Newcombe and Robyn)

even in the face of difficulties. “I want to make a difference. I want to work to better agriculture and join a team of farmers and producers who work so diligently.” Robyn will officially receive her scholarship at the OYF Atlantic regional banquet in February 2010 as part of the PEI Potato Expo in Charlottetown, PEI.

“OYF is honoured to be administering this new memorial scholarship on behalf of one of our alumni,” says Richard Stamp, OYF president. “And Robyn McCallum represents the enthusiasm and energy that is the future of Canadian Agriculture. We all need to support and encourage the next generation to be excited about Agriculture; it is a very rewarding career, providing many opportunities.”

The OYF Memorial Scholarship was established in memory of the late Martin Streef – president Streef Produce Ltd., a family-run fresh fruit and vegetable business in Woodstock Ontario – to help future generations of Canadians pursue their passion for agriculture. In 1996, Streef was recognized as both Ontario’s and Canada’s Outstanding Young Farmer. He died in April 2008.

Awarded annually in the fall, nominations are open to any individual in Canada pursuing a diploma or degree in agriculture at a Canadian institution. The application deadline for the 2010 OYF Memorial Scholarship is June 30, 2010. Full details and application forms are available at www.oyfcanada.com/scholarships.