Description
2026 W.D. Farr Scholarship Application
IN MEMORY OF THE LATE W.D. FARR
PRESENTED BY THE NATIONAL CATTLEMEN’S FOUNDATION
APPLICATION FOR GRADUATE STUDENT PURSUING A MASTER'S OR PHD
Application Deadline: All submissions must be made by Friday, October 9, 2026, midnight Mountain Time
Scholarship Overview
For 20 years, the W.D. Farr Scholarship has created a legacy of helping graduate students pursue careers in meat science, animal science and related fields. Applicants are now being accepted for the final year of the program. Through two $15,000 graduate scholarships bearing his name, the National Cattlemen’s Foundation honors the successful career of the late W.D. Farr, of Greeley, Colorado. Farr, a third-generation Coloradan, pioneer rancher, statesman and banker was known for his extraordinary vision. His dedication to improving agriculture, livestock and water development resulted in significant changes in farming methods that have influenced the practices of ranchers and farmers throughout the nation.
The W.D. Farr Scholarship is national in scope and will be awarded to two outstanding students pursuing graduate degrees in animal science, environmental science (water) or agriculture. The winner of the scholarship will be strongly encouraged to participate in NCBA activities. The students must also reflect a drive for success and leadership in the tradition of W.D. Farr.
The National Cattlemen’s Foundation will begin accepting applications on September 1st, 2026. Applications must be submitted by midnight Mountain Time on Friday, Oct. 9th, 2026. Scholarship winners will be announced December 14th.
Conditions of Eligibility
- Applicant must be enrolled as a graduate student in a Master’s or PhD program at an accredited institution of higher learning for the 2027-2028 academic year.
- Applicant must demonstrate a commitment to a career in the beef industry through classes, internships or life experience.
Evaluation Process
The National Cattlemen’s Foundation will administer the program and choose a panel of judges to review the applications and select the winners. Judges decisions are final. Applicants will be evaluated on the components of the application requirements through effective communication skills, clarity of expression, originality and interest/passion for the cattle industry.