Cunningham named Texas Farm Bureau ‘True’ Scholar winner

(WACO, Texas)—Agricultural advocacy is accomplished in many ways, and it’s a passion of McCalley Cunningham, this year’s Texas Farm Bureau (TFB) S.M. True Jr. Agricultural Scholar Award winner.

The $20,000 scholarship is presented annually to honor the former TFB president and his commitment and dedication to Texas agriculture.

“The late S.M. True was devoted to agriculture,” TFB President Russell Boening said. “It’s the kind of passion McCalley Cunningham displays. She has already excelled in numerous consumer and agricultural-related activities and has a bright future ahead.”

Cunningham, of Iola, is a junior at Texas A&M University (TAMU) in College Station, pursuing a bachelor’s degree in Animal Science.

While in college, Cunningham has participated in TAGUS, a business venture that helps farmers and ranchers increase their economic efficiency using unmanned aerial vehicles.

She has also participated in the University of Texas Food Lab Challenge for the past two years. The event is an international food competition that requires each team to create a product or business idea to address the challenge of how to feed the growing population. Cunningham was one of 20 representatives selected, and she presented the business plan of her company—“Go Fresh! Products”—that prolongs the shelf life of fruits and vegetables and helps restaurants and families waste less produce.

As a freshman, Cunningham was selected to be part of the Startup Aggieland Living Learning Community. She now serves as a peer mentor for 40 freshmen for the globally-recognized job creation program, which strives to grow innovation and entrepreneurship.

Cunningham was also named Outstanding Freshman in the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences.

Upon graduation, Cunningham plans to pursue a Doctorate of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) or further her education in another field. Her lifetime goals are to create a business that will positively impact society and agriculture.

“I’m able to go out and advocate for agriculture,” Cunningham said. “Farm Bureau is investing in me to be an advocate for farmers and ranchers and all those who have a part in agriculture.”

To be eligible for the scholarship, a student must have at least 60 hours of college credit and be enrolled in a four-year college or university. To receive the full amount, the recipient must continue to major in agriculture and maintain a satisfactory grade point average.

Click here for more on other TFB scholarships and youth opportunities.