Washington, D.C. (January 20, 2026) – The National Wheat Foundation (NWF) is pleased to announce the recipients of the BASF Wheat scholarships for 2026. Two exceptional college students pursuing careers in agriculture will be awarded $2500 this semester thanks to our partner, BASF.
NWF selected Jacob Bingaman, who is attending Oregon State University and pursuing a degree in Ag and Food Business Management. Jake stood out to the committee for his academic achievements, extracurricular activities, essay on the importance of wheat, and his recommendation letter. Jake was given high praise in his recommendation letter written by his FFA advisor, Jim Cant, who said of Jake: “He is detailed, strives for excellence, and cares deeply about his work, the people around him, and the outcomes of every task he undertakes.” The National Wheat Foundation congratulates Jake Bingaman as one of the scholarship recipients this year.
Paul McCalister from Abernathy, Texas was also selected to receive a scholarship. Paul is attending West Texas A&M University and studying Ag Business. Paul has career goals to work in agricultural policy and to play a role in improving food security, rural economies, and global markets for wheat. Paul has demonstrated his love for agriculture through many activities and academic and personal pursuits. The selection committee was impressed with Paul’s determination, persistence and desire to contribute to his community and beyond. Congratulations to Paul McCalister on being selected to receive a $2500 scholarship.
“Selecting the scholarship recipients each year is one of our favorite things to do,” said Ben Scholz, Texas farmer and Chair of NWF Scholarship Committee. “It brings us joy to recognize so much potential in these young applicants and we are so happy to see young people wanting to get involved in agriculture.”
The selection committee commends everyone who applied and encourages those not selected to submit again next year.
The program would not be possible without the support of our partner, BASF. The National Wheat Foundation would like to express our gratitude to BASF and all those who applied for the scholarship.
For more information about the scholarship program contact Anne Osborne, Executive Director, National Wheat Foundation (aosborne@wheatworld.org).
###
About the National Wheat Foundation
The National Wheat Foundation was established by the industry to serve as the national center for wheat research, education and outreach. The Foundation works to advance the wheat industry through strategic research, education and outreach collaborations, guided by core values of grower centeredness, integrity, honesty and trustworthiness.
The Foundation is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization incorporated and headquartered in Washington, D.C., governed by a nine-member Board of Directors, overseen by Anne Osborne, Executive Director and assisted by the staff of the National Association of Wheat Growers, the Foundation’s sole member.