By Emmy Powell
Communications Specialist<\/p>\n
Four students pursuing a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) degree were awarded Rural Veterinary Scholarships from Texas Farm Bureau (TFB).<\/p>\n
The 2026 recipients are Texas Tech University School of Veterinary Medicine students Kagan Migl and John Branch and Texas A&M University School of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences students Christopher Box and Jack Detten.<\/p>\n
\u201cThis scholarship is an investment in the students and the future of food animal agriculture and the communities that depend on it,\u201d TFB Youth Outreach Coordinator Dr. Clarissa Darby said. \u201cTheir commitment ensures farmers and ranchers will continue to have access to essential veterinary care.\u201d<\/p>\n
The scholarship was established in 2022 to help alleviate the financial demands of veterinary education and support the students\u2019 focus on food animal species.<\/p>\n
Each recipient received a $20,000 scholarship.<\/p>\n
Four additional finalists were recognized with $2,500 scholarships. They were Texas Tech student Jaedyn Johnson and Texas A&M students John Deramus, Kailee Knezek and Merrick Irvin.<\/p>\n
Animal agriculture plays a vital role in Texas\u2019 economy, yet the state continues to face a growing shortage of rural veterinarians. As seasoned practitioners retire, many rural communities are left with limited or no access to essential veterinary care.<\/p>\n
\u201cBy encouraging careers in rural veterinary medicine, this scholarship helps address a growing workforce need while supporting students who are passionate about making a difference in food animal agriculture,\u201d Darby said.<\/p>\n
The Rural Veterinary Scholarship is open to second- and third-year veterinary students in a Texas DVM professional program. Applicants must plan to enter a rural and\/or food animal practice in Texas upon completion of their degree.<\/p>\n