21 Students Pursuing Careers in the Grocery Industry Receive Financial Assistance that will Help Their Education Goals
Washington, D.C. – The National Grocers Association Foundation (NGA Foundation), the 501(c)3 nonprofit arm of the National Grocers Association, has announced the recipients of its 2026 scholarship program. This year, 21 students planning careers in the grocery industry received scholarships provided by the generosity of donors and affiliate groups.
“Scholarships are one of the most meaningful ways the NGA Foundation can invest in the next generation of independent grocery leaders,” said Chelsea Matzen, NGA Foundation Vice President. “We’re honored each year to support talented students who are committed to their communities and interested in building careers in our industry. These opportunities are made possible by the generous individuals, families, and organizations who support our scholarship programs, and we are sincerely grateful for their continued investment in these students and the future of independent grocery.”
The NGA Foundation offers scholarships each year, providing financial assistance and recognition to outstanding students who demonstrate academic excellence, leadership, and a strong commitment to careers in the independent grocery industry.
Meet this year’s scholarship recipients and hear, in their own words, what receiving the scholarship means to them:
Blaine Leyden — Asparagus Club Scholarship — Briar Cliff University
“Winning the scholarship is allowing me to pursue my education knowing that I have support from a great organization that I’m proud to represent. It will allow me to breathe a little easier when paying for my education”
Chingiz Bahadur — Asparagus Club Scholarship — Marymount University
“This scholarship allows me to focus more on my education and professional development by reducing financial stress. It gives me the opportunity to pursue internships, leadership experiences, and continued learning that will prepare me for a successful career in the grocery industry. Knowing that industry leaders have confidence in my potential inspires me to work even harder and become someone who can make a meaningful contribution to the communities grocery stores serve.”
Hayden Kestner — Asparagus Club Scholarship — The University of Virginia’s College at Wise
“Winning the Asparagus Club Scholarship is so meaningful to me because it shows that the work I have put into my education and future goals is being recognized. College comes with many expenses, and this scholarship will help ease some of that burden and allow me to focus more on learning and preparing for my future career. I am truly grateful to the NGA Foundation and the Asparagus Club for investing in my future and helping me continue my education.”
Kylie Shafer — Asparagus Club Scholarship — Northwest Missouri State University
“Winning this scholarship means so much to me because it recognizes the hard work, dedication, and passion I have invested throughout my college education and career in the grocery industry. Throughout my journey, I have been able to apply what I’ve learned in my classes to my work in the grocery industry, while also bringing real-world experiences from my job back into my studies. Receiving this scholarship as I enter my final year of college is both an honor and a source of motivation. I am incredibly grateful for this investment in my future and for the opportunities it will help create.”
Marianna Drapas — Asparagus Club Scholarship — University of Virginia
“This scholarship is valuable to me because it shows how impactful the NGA Foundation is as a whole and how they are willing to invest in students futures. It will allow me to focus on academics and extracurriculars next year, rather than stressing about finances.”
Mikayla Martin — Asparagus Club, Thomas K. Zaucha Award — Baylor University
“Winning this scholarship means a lot to me because it feels like my hard work has been seen and validated. For the past six years, I have spent so much time competing in speech and debate at the state, regional, and national level. There were many late nights practicing speeches, moments of stress, tears, and wanting to give up, but I kept going. This scholarship reminds me of the time I have spent trying to lead and serve others. Because of that, winning this scholarship is not just about the money. It feels like encouragement to keep going. It shows me that my effort, service, and goals matter.”
Brendan Ridge — Buehler’s Ed & Helen Buehler Scholarship — Ashland University
“This scholarship means the world to me. Buehlers was my first independent job that I’ve worked and I have spent nearly 3 years at this store. Buehlers has taught me how to communicate confidently and problem solve when customers run into issues.”
Caleb Smith — Buehler’s People First Scholarship — Stark State Community College
“I am extremely grateful that I was chosen for this scholarship. I am very thankful for the opportunity to use money elsewhere and have some extra financial help with my studies.”
Kaya M Bullard — Charlie and Becky Bray Legacy Scholarship — University of California, Berkeley
“In the next ten years, the grocery industry will be redefined by automation, predictive AI, and hyper-efficiency. While national chains will use massive capital to dominate this digital shift, my goal is to ensure that technological advancement does not leave independent grocers or underserved communities behind. I want to bridge the gap between advanced data tools and localized, equitable food systems.”
Abbie Thoman — Ecolab Women in Grocery Scholarship — Huntington University
“My role as an NGA scholarship recipient represents not only an investment in my future, but it also brings light to the impact of small businesses. I have been involved in my family’s IGA store, Thoman’s IGA, for as long as I can remember, and this year marks the store’s 75th anniversary. My great grandfather founded the grocery store, and then passed leadership to my grandfather, who my father now works alongside in order to keep the business running smoothly and effectively.”
Christian Stauffer — ECRS Retail Technology Scholarship — Massachusetts Institute of Technology
“Receiving this scholarship is an incredible honor and something I am deeply grateful for. Pursuing my master’s degree means stepping away from a successful career while supporting my wife and children, making this both an exciting and financially significant transition for our family. This scholarship eases that burden and allows me to focus more fully on learning, collaborating with my classmates, and taking advantage of every opportunity the program offers.”
Veeramani Karuppuchamy — ECRS Retail Technology Scholarship — The Ohio State University
“Winning this scholarship will have a profound impact on my career by accelerating my growth in the food retail industry and strengthening my ability to contribute meaningfully to the independent grocery community. This scholarship eases the financial burden of my education and validates my commitment to pursuing a career in an industry that plays a vital role in feeding communities and supporting local economies. Winning this scholarship is a huge honor, a responsibility, and a reminder that my contributions are recognized by the grocery industry.”
Abayomi Ogundana — FMS “Profit Hound” Scholarship — Temple University
“This scholarship means a lot to me because I did not receive a lot of federal funding, and stayed up countless nights wondering how I would bridge the financial gap. This scholarship will now allow me to fund my further education.”
Hannah Highberger — FMS “Profit Hound” Scholarship — University of Nebraska-Lincoln
“Winning the National Grocers Association scholarship is an incredible honor. It shows me that my efforts are appreciated and recognized. It is encouraging to know that the grocery industry believes in me and my future. This scholarship provides motivation for me to continue working hard at work and in the classroom. I am incredibly grateful for this recognition and award!”
Isabelle Rahn — Kimberly-Clark Scholarship — Iowa State University
“This scholarship means recognition from an organization that is deeply invested in the future of the grocery industry and affirms my passion for this field. Knowing that industry leaders believe in my potential is motivating for me as I begin my career. I am truly grateful for this opportunity and for the support of the NGA and its partners. I will continue to work hard, represent the values of the grocery industry, and make the most of the opportunities ahead.”
Elizabeth Sterling — Mary Macey Legacy Scholarship — University of Notre Dame
“Receiving this scholarship is a tremendous honor and a meaningful affirmation of my academic and community-focused efforts. It not only eases the financial burden of college but also inspires me to continue pursuing excellence in both my studies and service work.”
Alex Wiltse — Peter & Jody Larkin Legacy Scholarship — University of Northern Iowa
“This scholarship will assist in student bills so I can successfully complete and pay for college. My degree is necessary for my career goals. A degree in Business Administration and Finance will teach me the background knowledge needed for success in the grocery industry, specifically, Fareway. I will learn the things that I won’t necessarily be able to learn hands-on and will be expected to know as I climb the company ladder. I want to be a company officer, and continue my family’s legacy at Fareway, without school it would be close to impossible.”
Isaac Gustashaw — Roger Collins Legacy Scholarship — Auburn University
“I really appreciate what the NGA Foundation does for grocers across America. Winning this scholarship has made me want to put a focus on helping local grocers and the communities they serve. Local and family-owned grocery stores helped build The United States. The “General Store” provided newly built communities with a source of not only food but the essentials for building a town. The majority being family owned and operated. Thinking how much of an impact these businesses have had on our history it makes me want to choose a career where work alongside these hardworking Americans.”
Rebecca Lynn Berry — Ronnie Horton Legacy Scholarship (sponsored by Frontline Source Group, Inc.) — University of Michigan
“Receiving this scholarship helps to ease my family’s and my tuition responsibility, and allows me to dedicate more time to research, leadership, and community outreach programs. I work part-time to save for tuition, but this scholarship could also give me the freedom to continue expanding the projects I have already started. Most importantly, this scholarship would represent an investment in my commitment to strengthen communities through service.”
Avary Zeisloft — Women Grocers of America Scholarship — University of Findlay
“Receiving the WGA scholarship not only helps with the financial aspect of my college years, but also helps aid in my future aspirations of working in HR within the grocery industry. Grocery stores aren’t just places to buy food, they are a big part of the community and give back to those around them. Just this year at The NGA Show 2026, my local grocery store, Walt Churchill’s won the Peter J. Larkin award for Community service showing me firsthand how important it is to give to the community. As someone who wants to work in HR, I want to build workplaces where employees feel supported and valued. Knowing that NGA believes in women going into this industry makes me want to learn more and find something that I will truly excel at in the future. I’m thankful for this scholarship, and I hope to make the most of it through my future endeavors and attending future NGA shows.”
Campbell Booth — Women Grocers of America Scholarship — University of Minnesota
“I am incredibly honored to be selected as a WGA Scholarship recipient. It means a lot to know that people in the grocery and food industries recognize my potential and believe in my commitment to making a positive impact. With a primary focus on agricultural products, this recognition reminds me that my ideas are valuable in the food system, especially when it comes to improving how food gets from farms to consumers’ carts.”
Every NGA Foundation scholarship is made possible by a company or individual committed to investing in the future of the independent grocery industry, often while honoring the legacy of a business or distinguished industry leader. The Foundation welcomes scholarship sponsorships as a meaningful way to support the next generation of independent grocery professionals and help strengthen the industry for years to come.
The NGA Foundation extends its sincere appreciation to our current scholarship sponsors for their continued support and commitment. To learn more about sponsoring a scholarship or for additional information, contact nga-foundation@nationalgrocers.org.
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About the National Grocers Association Foundation
The NGA Foundation is the charitable arm of the National Grocers Association. We work alongside the independent grocery industry to invest in its people, strengthen its operations, and protect its future. We cultivate talent, ignite innovation, and preserve independence across generations — so that grocers can continue to serve the communities that depend on them. Our programming encompasses students, leadership development, supporting women in the industry, frontline worker training, free personalized support for business innovation, and succession planning. For more information, visit www.ngafoundation.org.
About NGA
NGA is the national trade association representing the retail and wholesale community grocers that comprise the independent sector of the food distribution industry. An independent retailer is a privately owned or controlled food retail company operating a variety of formats. The independent grocery sector is accountable for about 1.2 percent of the nation’s overall economy and is responsible for generating more than $250 billion in sales, 1.1 million jobs, $39 billion in wages and $36 billion in taxes. NGA members include retail and wholesale grocers located in every congressional district across the country, as well as state grocers’ associations, manufacturers and service suppliers. For more information about NGA, visit www.nationalgrocers.org.
