Antique Iron-Inspired Scholarship Funds the Future
Scholarship funds can be essential to removing financial barriers that might otherwise limit FFA members’ participation in various activities. A decade ago, Idaho FFA alumnus and local farmer Sid Freeman restored a vintage tractor to raffle in support of the Idaho FFA Foundation. He completed the first restoration in 2010, and the inaugural raffle was held the following year. After 10 years and a lot of work invested in restoring tractors, the raffle’s grand prize changed to a UTV.
“It gained a lot of popularity for our foundation and local chapter, creating numerous scholarship opportunities for graduating seniors to go from FFA to college and into careers in agriculture,” says Carly Weaver, executive director of the Idaho FFA Foundation.
Today, the Scholarship Raffle Program generates more than $100,000 annually and has helped nearly 300 students pursue higher education and careers in agriculture.
Albert Radloff was among the program’s earliest scholarship recipients. The financial support helped launch a career in sustainable cropping systems that has taken him to four continents and 10 countries, and ultimately to earning a Ph.D. in molecular genetics and plant breeding from the University of Minnesota.
“Every dollar counted so much, and the Scholarship Raffle Program helped me get my start at Boise State University before I transferred to the University of Idaho,” he says. “The scholarship is about more than a check. It also cemented FFA as a long-term organization for me. I volunteer with the state FFA convention and activities, mentor FFA members and stay connected to other alumni.”
Broad Eligibility
One unique aspect of the scholarship is its broad eligibility criteria, which allows FFA members of any major to apply. Weaver said this reflects the diverse career paths that support agriculture.
“For example, they could go into healthcare, social work or the trades because careers those are important parts of an agricultural community,” she says.
Samantha Smith received a scholarship in 2025 and is using it to pursue a bachelor’s degree in agricultural science, communication and leadership at the University of Idaho. She plans to attend law school and specialize in succession planning for farmers and ranchers or advocate for agricultural commodity groups.
“The scholarship is a large component of my ability to attend the University of Idaho,” she says. “Because of people’s contributions, I and others have opportunities to receive a post-secondary education relating to the agricultural industry and invest in their communities in return.”
Fund Your FFA Experience
Scholarships and grants abound for FFA members of all types. Whether you are pursuing a trade school, vocational certificate or a two-year or four-year degree, or need support for a service project, experiential learning opportunity, starting or expanding a Supervised Agricultural Experience, taking your FFA Alumni & Supporters chapter to the next level or more, FFA Grants and Scholarships have opportunities for you.
