American Royal Selects 2026 Royal Scholars

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 

American Royal Selects 2026 Royal Scholars
Leadership program prepares students for careers in agriculture

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (June 15, 2026) – Ten students from across the country have been selected as the 2026 American Royal Scholars, recognizing their leadership, academic achievement and commitment to advancing the future of agriculture.

The Royal Scholars program recognizes outstanding students pursuing degrees in agriculture, food or natural resources and provides opportunities for them to grow as leaders through industry engagement, professional development and American Royal events. Each scholar is awarded a $3,000 scholarship and will be an ambassador for the American Royal throughout the next academic year.

Representing nine states and seven universities, the 2026 Royal Scholars program brings together students pursuing careers in agricultural fields ranging from animal science and economics to communications and rural policy.

“Agriculture needs talented leaders, and the Royal Scholars program is about more than recognizing achievement,” said Pat Macy, CEO of the American Royal. “It is about helping students gain real-world experiences and develop relationships that will benefit them far beyond graduation.”

The 2026 Royal Scholars are:

• Kenzie Barta of Rosalia, Washington, majoring in Agricultural Science, Communication and Leadership with a minor in Animal Science at the University of Idaho
• Haley Bode of Waterloo, Illinois, majoring in Agriculture Systems and Education with minors in Early Childhood Education and Horticulture at Southern Illinois University – Carbondale
• Lily Brown of Exeter, Maine, majoring in Agricultural Business and Accounting with a minor in Agriculture Real Estate Appraisal and certificate in Ethical Leadership at Oklahoma State University
• Tyree Figge of Onaga, Kansas, majoring in Animal Science and Industry and Agriculture Economics at Kansas State University
• Kendall Geist of Madera, California, majoring in Agricultural Economics at Kansas State University
• Lauren Phillips of Centerville, Iowa, majoring in Agricultural Communications with a minor in Psychology at Iowa State University
• Mary Schrieber of East Troy, Wisconsin, majoring in Agricultural Leadership Development with a minor in Political Science at Texas A&M University
• Trey Voeller of Prairie City, Iowa, majoring in Agricultural and Rural Policy Studies with a minor in Sociology at Iowa State University
• Mollie Kate Webb of Glasgow, Kentucky, majoring in Agricultural Leadership Development with a minor in Campaigns and Lobbying at Oklahoma State University
• George William Wilson of Niota, Tennessee, majoring in Animal Science and Agricultural Leadership, Education and Communications with minors in Agricultural Business and Extension at the University of Tennessee – Knoxville

As ambassadors for the American Royal, these scholars will attend the American Royal Livestock Show, Youth Rodeo and Field Trip, and participate in industry visits throughout the Kansas City area during the next academic year.

To learn more about the American Royal and its scholarship programs, visit americanroyal.com.

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About the American Royal Association

A Kansas City tradition since 1899, the American Royal is a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit organization whose mission is to be the nation’s leader for food and agriculture education, events, and engagement. The American Royal provides opportunities for nearly half a million youth and adults from around the world to engage in high-quality events and experiences, including nationally competitive livestock shows, the world’s largest barbecue competition, regional and national equine shows, youth and professional rodeos, and elementary and secondary education outreach. Support from partners, members, and volunteers help the American Royal achieve its vision of a world where food and agriculture are celebrated, and all generations are committed to its future.

Media Contact:
Julie Warner, AdFarm
417-298-5968
[email protected]