Application Open September 28, 2026 – December 1, 2026

Background:
The Alan Koepke Memorial Scholarship was established to honor Alan Koepke’s enduring legacy and his commitment to advancing the agricultural industry. Alan believed deeply in the power of lifelong learning and dedicated his life to mentoring young farmers, sharing knowledge gained through years of experience, and inspiring others to pursue their own educational journeys. His leadership and vision helped shape the future of dairy farming, emphasizing the importance of preparing the next generation to build upon past successes. As a founding member of Professional Dairy Producers of Wisconsin (now Professional Dairy Producers®) in 1992, Alan played a pivotal role in creating opportunities for education and collaboration within the industry. His advocacy later contributed to the formation of Dairy’s Foundation®, ensuring resources would be available to support programs that strengthen agriculture. This scholarship reflects Alan’s values by supporting students who demonstrate a passion for dairy, leadership and community involvement, and a desire to use their education and talents to strengthen dairy farms, businesses and the broader dairy industry.

Eligibility:
Open to students pursuing undergraduate education at an eligible Wisconsin institution, including:

• UW Farm and Industry Short Course.
• Accredited technical schools or colleges within Wisconsin.
• Wisconsin universities with fields of study that may include agricultural business, animal science, food science or related areas.
• Selection based on the following evaluation criteria:
  • Commitment to dairy and rural communities – 40%
    • Genuine passion for dairy and a desire to use their education, career or talents to develop and support dairy farm owners and businesses that are in support of the dairy industry.
  • Community involvement – 25%
  • Financial need – 25%
  • Academic excellence – 10%

Applicants must attend or plan to attend an eligible school or program in Wisconsin; however, Wisconsin residency is not required.

Applicants should demonstrate a genuine passion for dairy and a desire to use their education, career or talents to develop and support dairy farm owners and businesses that support the dairy industry.

Winning applicants will be recognized at the 2027 PDP Business Conference March 16 – 17 in Wisconsin Dells, WI.
At least one $2,000 scholarship will be awarded to a high school student.
At least one $2,000 scholarship will be awarded to a college student.

Application Instructions:
Please complete the information below and answer the essay questions. Please note that the online application does not automatically save your responses. To avoid losing your work, we recommend preparing your essay answers in a separate document before submitting them.

As part of the application, you will be required to upload two letters of recommendation.

Please Note:
All fields are required unless marked “Optional.”