News

Dairy’s Foundation Announces Alan Koepke Memorial Scholarship for Wisconsin Agriculture Students

 
 
 
 
 

January 5, 2026
 
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact: Caitlin Roy
800-947-7379
info@dairyfoundation.org
 
   
Juneau, Wis. – Dairy’s Foundation is proud to announce the launch of the Alan Koepke Memorial Scholarship, a new scholarship opportunity designed to support Wisconsin students pursuing higher education and careers in agriculture. The scholarship honors the life, legacy, and values of Alan Koepke, whose commitment to agriculture, education, and people left a lasting impact on the industry.
 
Established through memorial contributions from family, friends, and colleagues into Dairy’s Foundation, the scholarship reflects a shared belief in encouraging students who are committed to agriculture, particularly those with a strong interest in production agriculture and a desire to contribute to the future of the industry.
 
Beginning in 2026, the Alan Koepke Memorial Scholarship is expected to award one $2,000 scholarship each year.
 
“The Alan Koepke Memorial Scholarship is more than financial assistance. It is a tribute to Alan Koepke’s belief in people, education, and the importance of agriculture and an investment in the next generation of industry visionaries,” said Brian Forrest, dairy producer from Stratford, Wis., and chair of Dairy’s Foundation board of directors. “Through this scholarship, Dairy’s Foundation and the Koepke family aim to invest in students who will carry forward the values of stewardship, commitment, and service to agriculture.”
 
Eligibility
The scholarship is open to undergraduate students who are enrolled or planning to enroll in:

• University of Wisconsin Farm and Industry Short Course (going into first year)
• Accredited Wisconsin technical colleges
• Wisconsin colleges or universities (have sophomore or greater status)

 
Eligible fields of study include agriculture business, animal science, food science, production agriculture, or closely related disciplines. Priority consideration will be given to students who demonstrate a clear interest in production agriculture and agricultural careers.
 
Application Requirements
Applicants must submit:

• A completed online application at www.DairyFoundation.org
• A personal statement outlining:
  • Career goals
  • Connection to or passion for agriculture
  • Leadership and community involvement
  • Financial need or circumstances where encouragement and opportunity would be meaningful
• Proof of enrollment or intent to enroll in an eligible program
• Two letters of recommendation

 
Timeline

• Applications open: January 1, 2026
• Applications deadline: February 6, 2026
• Recipients will be selected and notified: By February 20, 2026
• Recipients announced publicly: March 4–5, 2026

 
Scholarship recipients will be recognized during the 2026 Professional Dairy Producers^® (PDP) Business Conference, an event attended by state, regional, and national agricultural leaders and media.
 
How to Apply
The scholarship application is currently available on the Dairy’s Foundation website. For additional information and questions about the Alan Koepke Memorial Scholarship, contact Dairy’s Foundation at 800.947.7379.
 
 
Dairy’s Foundation, a national public-held foundation, was established by Professional Dairy Producers in 2002 as a way to raise funds and award grants for educational programs. The Foundation is a 501(c)3 entity. Our mission is to share ideas, resources and experiences about important issues surrounding the dairy industry through educational opportunities for dairy producers and the public.