Texas A&M student receives 2019 Diamond V Endowed Scholarship

The Poultry Science Association Foundation, PSA Foundation, recognized Austin Silva as the recipient of the 2019 Diamond V Endowed Scholarship. 

Silva, a junior poultry science and animal science double major enrolled in the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences at Texas A&M University, was recognized by Jim Denton, Ph.D., executive director of the foundation, at a reception hosted by David Caldwell, Ph.D., former department head in poultry science at Texas A&M.

“The Diamond V leadership team recognizes the need to invest in the future leaders of our feed and food industries,” said Hilary Pavlidis, Ph.D., director, Poultry Research and Technical Services of Cargill’s Diamond V nutritional health business based in Cedar Rapids, Iowa. 

“Before attending Texas A&M University, I set a goal to graduate debt-free,” Silva said. “Through the Diamond V Endowed Scholarship, I will be able to accomplish such and more. This scholarship will give me opportunities that are second to none. In the spring, I will be traveling to Diamond V’s corporate office to tour their facilities and engage in first-class experiences. I am excited to see what is in store for the future.” 

The Diamond V Endowed Scholarship, supporting a student entering their junior year and renewable for the senior year subject to satisfactory academic progress, is designed to encourage promising scholars to continue studies at the graduate level in poultry science. It was  was made possible through the PSA Foundation Charting Our Course – Securing Future Leadership for Poultry Campaign.

“The Diamond V business is committed to research excellence in poultry science to help modern animal agriculture meet the growing global protein demand as well as the critical need for sustainable agriculture worldwide,” Pavlidis said. “We are committed to investing in the future of our industry and its leaders, and we believe that through this scholarship we will help prepare students for their future leadership roles within the poultry industry. This scholarship connects deeply with our core values and dedication as ‘the trusted experts in nutrition and health’.”