Dairy farmers are committed to their communities and giving back to the next generation. With 27 applicants this year, Dairy MAX has awarded $7,500 in scholarships to three students across the region who have ties to the dairy industry and are planning to continue their education in the agriculture industry. Since 2010, Dairy MAX has awarded more than $100,000 in scholarships to over 30 deserving students.
The 2025 scholarship recipients are Kaylen Langhofer of Plains, Kansas, Sophie Schaap of Clovis, New Mexico, and Grayson Steinberger of Windthorst, Texas. Each recipient was awarded $2,500 in scholarships to go toward their college education. Scholarships are awarded based on a combination of scholastic achievement, leadership, and involvement in agriculture.
“Investing in the youth of the dairy industry is important to Dairy MAX, and fundamental in progressing the industry as a whole,” said Todd Green, vice president of farmer and industry relations at Dairy MAX. “The Dairy MAX scholarship program allows the organization to support the dairy industry’s future leaders and play a role in these young people advancing their education. We are honored to have these three students represent Dairy MAX.”
Kaylen Langhofer
Kaylen Langhofer is from Plains, Kansas and grew up in the dairy industry. She continues her involvement by working alongside her parents, at the dairy, when she is home from college. Langhofer currently attends West Texas A&M University where she is an honor student studying animal science and an active member of Block and Bridle, Equestrian Team, and Western Horsemanship Team. During high school, Langhofer was active in 4-H, FFA, and other organizations holding multiple leadership positions. Langhofer is very involved in her community volunteering with her local public library and food bank.
Sophie Schapp
Sophie Schapp grew up on her family’s dairy farm in Clovis, New Mexico. As a graduating senior from Texico High School, Schaap was a very involved and accomplished student. Throughout her high school education, Schaap was highly active in FFA and 4-H, holding leadership positions and achieving multiple honors. Schaap was also a valued team member and captain for the varsity golf, volleyball, and cheerleading teams. Upon graduating high school, Schaap will attend California Polytechnic State University where she will major in bioresource and agricultural engineering. Schaap plans to use her skills to solve real-world agricultural issues and drive progress in dairy farming.
Grayson Steinberger
Grayson Steinberger grew up on his family’s dairy farm in Windthorst, Texas, and remains active on the farm while continuing his college education. Steinberger currently attends Texas A&M University where he is studying agribusiness with minors in agricultural economics and economics. With an avid interest in learning new skills and dedication to learning, Steinberger enjoys researching ag policy and is considering future internship opportunities in the field. He also works as a student video assistant for the Texas A&M Football Team where he videos, produces, and creates a variety of video assets. Upon completing his undergraduate career, Steinberger plans to further his education with focuses on finance and economics.
A total of 27 scholarship applications underwent an in-depth judging process. To be eligible for the Dairy MAX scholarship, students must reside in the Dairy MAX region, be a graduating high school senior or undergraduate student currently enrolled in college and be a child of a dairy farmer, child of a dairy farm employee or an FFA/4-H dairy show participant.
“The dairy industry is full of hardworking and talented young people who are committed to strengthening the dairy industry,” said Green. “The individuals being recognized this year are excellent representations of the industry’s strong future. The knowledge, experience, and passion they each have will positively impact the dairy industry. Dairy MAX is proud to support these students.”
Investing in the industry’s future allows Dairy MAX to support the dairy farm families who sustainably produce dairy foods that nourish communities. The 2026 Dairy MAX Scholarship application will open in January 2026. To see a full list of eligibility requirements and information about applying, visit DairyMAX.org/Dairy/Scholarships.
