Growing up in Hico, Tom Kuiper said he always knew he wanted to be a dairy farmer. Surrounded by the rhythms of rural life, he developed a deep appreciation for the industry that keeps families fed and communities thriving. 

Now, thanks in part to a scholarship he received last year from United Cooperative Services, Kuiper is taking the next step toward his dream at Cornell University, home to one of the nation’s top agricultural programs.

Applications for this year’s scholarships opens May 1 and runs through June 1. Eligible students can apply on United's website under the Programs tab.

Kuiper, one of 15 recipients of United’s 2024 scholarship awards, is majoring in Animal Science at Cornell’s College of Agriculture and Life Sciences. The Ivy League land-grant university in New York is renowned in dairy farming circles, and for Kuiper, the opportunity to study there is life changing, he said. 

“My goal is to major in Animal Science, with the aspiration of pursuing a career in the dairy industry,” he said. “This scholarship has allowed me to focus on developing skills and connections that will enable me to succeed in my future career.”

Beyond the academic challenge, Kuiper is also learning to adjust to a different way of life and a completely different climate—trading the hot, dry Texas summers for Ithaca’s long, snowy winters.

“As you could expect, New York has brought several changes in perspective,” he said. “Although it took some adjusting, I have started to appreciate the different cultures and frames of reference. It has been an eye-opening experience. Similarly, the weather has also been a big change for me, but I enjoyed my first winter in New York and I’m looking forward to the fresh spring weather.”

While the transition from a small Texas town to an Ivy League campus is a big one, Kuiper said, United’s scholarship has made the journey much smoother.

“The United Cooperative Services scholarship has significantly reduced the financial burden associated with my education,” he said. “It has allowed me to focus more on my studies without the constant concern of tuition fees and other educational expenses.”

Kuiper sees the scholarship as recognition of his hard work and dedication.

“It’s a good feeling to see my work be recognized, and it has further motivated me to excel in my studies,” he said. “This scholarship has allowed me to focus on developing skills and connections that will enable me to succeed in my future career in the dairy industry.”

Kuiper’s story is just one example of how United’s scholarship program helps young members pursue their educational goals. Last year, United awarded $43,000 in scholarships to 15 deserving students, investing in both their futures and the communities they call home. Since the program’s inception, United has pledged more than $1.5 million in tuition funding, assisting 1,051 students across its service territory.

Cameron Smallwood, United CEO, said the program reflects the cooperative’s core principles. “Demonstrating concern for our community and supporting young people in their pursuit of higher education is one of the many ways we strengthen our communities and honor our commitment to those we serve.”

The scholarship program is made possible by House Bill 3203, which allows nonprofit electric cooperatives to redirect unclaimed member dividend funds to scholarships rather than sending them to the state’s general revenue fund.

Applicants are evaluated on financial need, leadership, community involvement, and school activities. High school and undergraduate students must reside with parents or legal guardians who are active United members at their primary residence.

“Each year, we see an outstanding group of scholarship recipients who showcase intelligence, responsibility, and a strong drive for personal growth throughout the selection process,” said United CEO Cameron Smallwood.

Kuiper may have left behind the wide-open Texas skies for the snow-covered hills of upstate New York, but he took with him the values of hard work and dedication and a deep sense of gratitude.

“I would like to express my gratitude to all of those involved with this scholarship,” Kuiper said. “Scholarships like this open the door to endless opportunities for young people to chase their dreams and attain their goals.”

For students like Kuiper, the United scholarship is more than just financial aid—it’s a steppingstone to making a difference in their fields and communities. And for United Cooperative Services, it’s a commitment to investing in the future—one student at a time.