Cultivating Future Leaders: Innovative Ag Services Announces Scholarship Winners

May 19, 2025


Innovative Ag Services proudly announces the recipients of its annual scholarship program. This year, seven outstanding students have each been awarded $1,000 to support their educational pursuits in agriculture.
 
Among the scholarships awarded, two dependent scholarships are awarded each year, providing financial aid to a student whose parent or guardian is employed by Innovative Ag Services. Additionally, two scholarships honor former CEOs Jack Friedman and Rick Vaughan, celebrating their significant contributions to the company and the agricultural industry. The remaining scholarships, funded directly by Innovative Ag Services (IAS), underscore the company's dedication to nurturing the next generation of agricultural leaders.
 
These scholarships are available to high school seniors and college students pursuing degrees in agriculture or related fields. Applicants are evaluated based on their academic achievements, leadership skills, and involvement in agricultural activities.
 
"At Innovative Ag Services, our dedication to nurturing the future of agriculture remains unwavering," said Ken Smith, CEO. "These scholarships represent our ongoing commitment to empowering the next generation and giving back to the community that sustains us."
 
Congratulations to the following 2025 Scholarship Winners!
 
 
Name College Attending Area of Study Type of Scholarship
Lambertsen, Dean Iowa State University Ag Systems & Technology IAS Agricultural Scholarship
March, Bethany Hawkeye Community College Animal Science - Vet Assistant IAS Agricultural Scholarship
Schlarmann, Haili Iowa State University Agriculture Education IAS Agricultural Scholarship
Hogan, Claire Iowa State University Agriculture Communications IAS Dependent Scholarship
Wartick, Tyler Hawkeye Community College Mechanical Engineering IAS Dependent Scholarship
Echard, Keagan Oklahoma State University Animal Science/Ag Business Jack Friedman Scholarship
Appelhans, Addison Iowa State University Animal Science Rick Vaughan Scholarship

Read More News

Oct 29, 2025
Innovative Ag Services (IAS) closed fiscal year 2025 with strong financial results, new investments in efficiency, and continued commitment to member value. Despite headwinds from lower grain prices, high input costs, and volatile markets, IAS delivered $24.3 million in pre-tax income and will return $4.5 million in patronage dividends to members — half in cash this November.
Oct 20, 2025
Innovative Ag Services (IAS) is now accepting applications for its 2026 academic year scholarships, designed to support students pursuing careers in agriculture. These include the IAS Scholarships for member families, the IAS Dependent Scholarship for children of employees, and two special awards—the Jack Friedman and Rick Vaughan Scholarships—IAS's former CEOs and their lasting contributions to the cooperative and agricultural community.
Oct 20, 2025
As fertilizer prices fluctuate, it’s tempting to reduce application rates — but doing so could cost you in yield and long-term soil health. IAS Agronomy Advisors Skott Gent and Dalton Roling explain why proactive soil sampling, accurate yield goals, and strategic fertility planning are essential for maximizing return on investment and crop performance in 2026 and beyond.