The North American Gamebird Association (NAGA) is announcing submission dates for applications for a scholarship opportunity offered in memorial to the late Jeannine Kuhl, whose work with Kuhl Corporation has been an essential part of the gamebird industry.

The purpose of this scholarship is to increase awareness, and support career opportunities in the gamebird industry (defined as the raising of pheasants, chukar, quail, Hungarian partridge and other upland gamebirds). Consideration may also include applicants with an interest in strongly related fields like upland gamebird hunting clubs, veterinary science or veterinary research programs.

This is a one-time, $2,500 scholarship, awarded in increments over two years. The total amount will be paid in $750 increments each of the first two semesters the first year and $500 each semester the second year. Continuous enrollment in an acceptable program must be maintained, or graduation status attained to be eligible for this award. The award will be paid directly to the academic institution on behalf of the awardee. High school graduates that have been accepted to college, or current college students in an applicable area of study are eligible.

Funding for the scholarship is through private sponsorship by Elkhorn Farms & Hatchery, administered through the North American Gamebird Foundation (NAGF).

Criteria for Award:

• Financial need, specifically total costs, and additional scholarships sought and received.
• Academic achievement, shown by grade point average, test scores, etc. While applicants gifted in hands-on practical and physical skills may not always test highly in academics, a passing grade point average is required. Two letters of recommendation from past or current academic instructors must be provided.
• Evidence of community involvement and leadership skills will be awarded in evaluating applications. Extracurricular and community activities show a well-rounded individual who has the skills to lead others.
• Work history and/or previous achievements in gamebird related fields or similar agricultural work. Being already involved shows a serious intent to continue in the field.
• Applicants must submit an essay indicating the value of this scholarship, future goals and plans. Communication skills in the form of writing is a way to communicate a message with a larger audience. This essay may be adapted for use in the North American Gamebird Association publication, NAGA News.
• While membership in the NAGA is not required, preference will be granted to those showing an interest in the trade association of the gamebird industry.

Application Procedures:

1. • Completed applications should be submitted using the website form located at www.northamericangamebird.com under the scholarship tab for the Jeannine Kuhl Memorial Scholarship. Or, they can be sent to the NAGF, either in print form via mail to 5195 Hampsted Village Center, PMB 242, New Albany, OH 43054-8331, or electronically as a single PDF file to info@northamericangamebird.com, clearly marked as Gamebird Scholarship. Entries must be received by April 15, 2020.
   • All elements of these guidelines must be addressed in the application to be considered for processing.
   • The staff of Elkhorn Farms & Hatchery will narrow the field of applicants to no more than 10 applicants, based on the criteria listed above.
   • The scholarship committee of the NAGF will select the finalist by May 15, 2020. The finalist will be contacted via phone and letter from the NAGF.

• Results from the scholarship will be announced on the NAGA website, published in NAGA News and distributed through outdoor sports news outlets.

About the North American Gamebird Association

The North American Gamebird Association’s mission is to protect, promote and sustain a positive environment in which game bird producers and hunting club operators can grow their businesses through the monitoring and influencing of legislation, informing and educating our members on current industry trends and issues, and promoting and sustaining our hunting heritage through increased public awareness.

Media Contact

Britney Booth

britney@northamericangamebird.com