Boyer wins FFA and IFAA scholarships

Kaitlyn Boyer of Boyer Family Farms in Weldon was awarded the $2,000 Cattleman’s Beef Quarters scholarship by the Iowa Foundation for Agricultural Advancement (IFAA) and the $1,000 Cooperative Credit Company scholarship by the National FFA Organization.

Her parents, Jason and Amy Boyer, started their family farm in 1995 and expanded their business in 2001 by opening Harvest Barn Marketplace. Their daughter and twin sons, Kacey and Konrad, help keep operations running smoothly. Boyer shared her thoughts recently on the importance of family farms and on how she’ll put those scholarships dollars to work.

“I am currently studying animal science at Iowa State University,” Boyer said. “Once I complete my education, I hope to work in a career that focuses on marketing and promoting the beef industry, whether that be coming back to the family farm to expand our operation or working for the North American Limousin Foundation.”

By staying active in showing and in the family business, Boyer demonstrated her dedication and ability to further progress in the industry.

“IFAA established the Winner’s Circle Scholarship Program in 1990 to provide incentives for college-bound youth seeking post-secondary education in an area of agriculture,” said Harold Hodson, chairman of the IFAA Scholarship Committee, in a press release.

For Boyer, success all comes back to facing the challenges – and achievements – the family business brought to daily life. From dealing with droughts to losing livestock, setbacks are inevitable.

“You must have the power to get back up and keep moving forward,” Boyer said. “Without living on our farm I would never have the determination to succeed, courage and core values that I have today.”