At GENEX, our commitment to agriculture doesn’t stop at the barn. We believe in building a stronger future for our industry by supporting the people who will lead it. That’s why each year, we award the GENEX for Generations Scholarship to standout students from our cooperative member families. The recipients are pursuing degrees in agriculture-related fields.
These young individuals are more than students, they are innovators, caretakers and passionate advocates for agriculture. They carry with them the values of hard work, community and stewardship, and they represent the bright future of farming and ranching in America.
This year, we are proud to introduce seven exceptional recipients of the 2025 GENEX for Generations Scholarship. Hailing from across the USA and bringing unique perspectives and passions, each of them is already making a difference in their communities and in agriculture.
Our 2025 Scholarship Winners
Ty Jones – Scottsville, Kentucky
Studying: Animal Science & Agriculture Business at Oklahoma State University
Member Farm: Red Hill Farms
“As I look forward to my future in the agriculture industry, I feel a deep sense of pride and responsibility. This industry is putting food on dinner plates, but most importantly, we are sustaining livelihoods, supporting local economies and ensuring the well-being of our consumers. I desire to be a thriving animal breeder with the goal of raising the animals of today and breeding the animals of tomorrow by improving the genetics of the livestock we produce, making them more sustainable and profitable for all involved.”
Daisie Pramann – Clearwater, Minnesota
Studying: Dairy Science at Iowa State University
Member Farm: Pramann Farms
“Agriculture means more than words to me. I believe that agriculture is who I am because I have been around it forever. Agriculture gives back to people by providing goods and services. Fields and animals are maintained by good-hearted farmers, sacrificing themselves for little pay because they want to provide for other people. Without agriculture, our world cannot survive. It means the world to me.”
Graden Holan – Kimball, South Dakota
Studying: Precision Agriculture at Mitchell Technical College
Member Farm: Holan Farms LLC
“I believe it is important for the next generation of farmers and ranchers to have an active voice in the industry. It’s great to collaborate with others who share the same goals, whether it’s through discussions on new farming technologies or finding ways to grow our operations more efficiently. By involving young producers in these types of discussions, GENEX can build a stronger future for the beef industry. This is where being part of a cooperative like GENEX is very valuable.”
Cassie Bohnert – East Moline, Illinois
Studying: Dairy Science at Iowa State University
Member Farm: Bohnert Jerseys
“Farming offers a perspective far greater than self. Witnessing farmers tirelessly work to sustain crops and cattle is rewarding. Yet, their dedication often extends beyond barns or fields. Many take roles in schools, churches, community boards and strengthening the community through service. Agriculture is ultimately about service. It involves nurturing not just the land and livestock, but also the people and community around us. This profession generates a purpose unlike any other. It’s a life that I am excited to continue.”
Laine Mulcock – Abernathy, Texas
Studying: Animal Science at Texas A&M University
Member Farm: Mulcock Ranch
“One of the most important lessons I have learned from agriculture is the value of hard work. To keep family ranches and dairy operations going, you have to get up before dawn and keep going until the job is done … I’ve also learned the importance of continuous learning and embracing technology. On our farm, I am especially passionate about our breeding program and herd improvement, and I work alongside our GENEX rep whenever possible. Any chance to gain hands-on experience, connect with industry professionals and deepen my knowledge excites me.”
Gavin Rhode – Stewartsville, Missouri
Studying: Agriculture Business Management at the University of Missouri
Member Farm: Rhode Livestock
“I want to be engaged in production agriculture every day but also work within the industry to help others succeed. In addition, I want to continue my involvement as a member of and volunteer in local and state industry organizations. I have been excited to engage with GENEX because it offers me the opportunity to learn more about new genetics and the beef industry. Being able to collaborate with others that share my interests and have similar goals is a great benefit of GENEX membership.”
Kaleb Heins – Morris, Minnesota
Studying: Animal Science at the University of Minnesota
Member Farm: University of Minnesota West Central Research and Outreach Center
“Beyond the practical lessons learned on the farm, I’ve learned the true importance of hard work, resilience and determination. It’s easy to walk away after a failure but real growth comes from pushing through setbacks, learning from them and finding ways to improve. Agriculture is full of long days, frustrations and financial hurdles, but a genuine love is what keeps me moving forward. This deep-rooted passion is why I am so excited to continue my education in agriculture and pursue it as my future career.”
A Lasting Impact
The GENEX for Generations Scholarship is more than a financial award. It’s an investment in leadership, innovation and the cooperative spirit that drives GENEX and the agriculture industry forward. These students inspire us with their vision, grit and dedication – and we’re proud to support them on their journey.
Congratulations to the 2025 recipients! The future of agriculture is in good hands.
