GRAND PRAIRIE, TEXAS – June 3, 2025 – Sophie Schaap of Clovis, New Mexico was selected to receive a 2025 Dairy MAX scholarship. Schaap is one of three students to receive a $2,500 scholarship award from Dairy MAX to go toward their college education. The Dairy MAX scholarship program honors dairy farmers’ commitment to their communities and giving back to the next generation. Since 2010, Dairy MAX has awarded more than $100,000 in scholarships to over 30 deserving students.
“Investing in the youth of the dairy industry is important to Dairy MAX, and fundamental in progressing the industry as a whole,” said Todd Green, vice president of farmer and industry relations at Dairy MAX. “The Dairy MAX scholarship program allows the organization to support the dairy industry’s future leaders and play a role in these young people advancing their education. We are honored to have these three students represent Dairy MAX.”
Schaap grew up on her family’s dairy farm in Clovis, New Mexico. As a graduating senior from Texico High School, Schaap was a very involved and accomplished student. Throughout her high school education, Schaap was highly active in FFA and 4-H, holding leadership positions and achieving multiple honors. Schaap was also a valued team member and captain for the varsity golf, volleyball, and cheerleading teams. Upon graduating high school, Schaap will attend California Polytechnic State University where she will major in bioresource and agricultural engineering. Schaap plans to use her skills to solve real-world agricultural issues and drive progress in dairy farming.
“As the daughter of a dairy farmer, agriculture is an integral part of my life,” said Schaap. “My passion for dairy farming and engineering has driven me to pursue a career where I can make a meaningful impact on the dairy industry. I aspire to achieve both the education and experience necessary to serve as an agricultural engineer. It is my personal goal to develop solutions that enhance efficiency, sustainability, and productivity in the dairy industry. I also have the goal of breaking barriers as a woman in agriculture by owning my own business and paving the way for the next generation.”
A total of 27 scholarship applications underwent an in-depth judging process. To be eligible for the Dairy MAX scholarship, students must reside in the Dairy MAX region, be a graduating high school senior or undergraduate student currently enrolled in college and be a child of a dairy farmer, child of a dairy farm employee or an FFA/4-H dairy show participant.
“Schaap is an excellent representation of the dairy industry’s strong future. Her knowledge, experience, and passion will positively impact the dairy industry. Dairy MAX is proud to play a role in her success,” said Green.
Investing in the industry’s future allows Dairy MAX to support the dairy farm families who sustainably produce dairy foods that nourish communities. The 2026 Dairy MAX Scholarship application will open in January 2026. To see a full list of eligibility requirements and information about applying, visit DairyMAX.org/Dairy/