In a groundbreaking collaboration aimed at nurturing the next wave of innovation in the food industry, the Feeding Tomorrow Fund has joined forces with global food and beverage leader PepsiCo. This partnership heralds the launch of the Academic and Travel Undergraduate Hybrid Scholarship, a pioneering program designed to support aspiring food scientists in their academic and professional journeys.
A Dual-Thrust Scholarship for Aspiring Food Scientists
At the heart of this collaboration is a scholarship that uniquely combines academic support with experiential learning opportunities. Recipients of this scholarship will be awarded a $5,000 academic grant, complemented by a $1,000 travel stipend. This stipend is specifically earmarked for attendance at the IFT FIRST: Annual Event and Expo, an event that stands as a beacon for innovation, networking, and the exchange of ideas within the global science of food community.
“PepsiCo is proud to encourage and enable students to grow their skills and passion in the science of food,” remarked Mary Carunchia, PhD, Senior Principal Scientist at PepsiCo. This statement underscores PepsiCo’s dedication to fostering talent and innovation in the food science arena, aligning with the company’s broader mission to pave the way for a healthier and more sustainable food system.
Eligibility and Application Insights
The scholarship is open to students worldwide, aiming to enroll full-time or part-time as rising sophomores, juniors, or seniors in a food science program. Eligibility hinges on a demonstrated commitment to the science of food, a minimum grade point average of 3.0, and the ambition to make a positive impact in the food industry.
Steve Hartley, Director of Fund Development at IFT, expressed enthusiasm about the partnership, noting, “The Feeding Tomorrow Fund is excited to partner with a leading company like PepsiCo to support a future leader of tomorrow.” The scholarship not only aids in alleviating financial burdens but also provides a platform for students to immerse themselves in the global food science community, gaining invaluable insights and connections.
Networking and Career Development Opportunities
A unique feature of this scholarship is the opportunity for recipients to engage with PepsiCo professionals during the IFTSA Student Lounge at the IFT FIRST event. This initiative allows students to delve into discussions about R&D, PepsiCo’s corporate culture, and potential career paths, offering a rare glimpse into the inner workings of a leading global corporation.
Since its inception in 1985, the Institute of Food Technologists, through the Feeding Tomorrow Fund, has awarded over 2,700 scholarships, totaling more than $3 million. This legacy of support extends beyond financial aid, fostering a community of scholars dedicated to transforming the global food system.
Application Deadline and Future Prospects
The application deadline for this innovative scholarship is March 29, 2024, marking an exciting opportunity for students passionate about food science to propel their careers forward. As the partnership between the Feeding Tomorrow Fund and PepsiCo flourishes, it promises to cultivate a new generation of leaders poised to address the challenges and opportunities of the future food landscape.
For students and professionals alike, this collaboration between the Feeding Tomorrow Fund and PepsiCo signifies a pivotal moment in the evolution of food science education and industry engagement, setting the stage for a future where innovation, sustainability, and community converge in the pursuit of a healthier world.
