Uzziah Scholars

Concordia’s Ag Scholars Program

Concordia University, Nebraska is dedicated to increasing the number of future stewards who will care for God’s earth and serve as leaders in agriculture for the sake of others. As a Uzziah Scholar, you will be challenged to solve real-world challenges, explore the many facets of agriculture in depth and be a part of creating sustainable, long-lasting and ethically sound agriculture practices for the future. 

Ag Science Professor Dr. Dennis Brink with two students surveying a corn field.

What is an Uzziah Scholar? 

In the Bible, King Uzziah is described as a powerful man, with productive farms and a highly trained and equipped army. God Himself gave Uzziah wonderful success as long as he sought the Lord.

Concordia’s The Uzziah Ag Scholars Program is an academic community that provides the next generation of agriculture leaders with enriched academic and field experiences for students who have a deep passion for agriculture from a biblical perspective. Uzziah Ag Scholars are devoted to becoming Christian servant leaders, solving problems in agriculture in their local and global communities, and serving as stewards of all agricultural resources through their chosen vocations.

Uzziah Ag Scholars participate in hands-on activities and collaborative projects designed to expand their understanding of the agriculture industry and deepen their awareness of potential career paths. Through shared experiences and joyful service modeled after Christ’s love for the church, they form lasting relationships and grow together in purpose and faith. 

As a Uzziah Scholar, you will have the opportunity to 

  • Receive a $5,000 per year scholarship annually. 
  • Connect regularly with a mentor serving in the field of agriculture. 
  • Attend ag-related conferences and conventions. 
  • Participate in domestic and international agricultural study tours. 
  • Participate in an internship with an agriculturally-based mission. 
  • Attend an annual luncheon with the President of the University. 

Our Mission

To equip the next generation of agriculturists with leadership skills through an enriched experiential education.

Our Vision

Growing the number of agricultural students devoted to learning, leading, stewarding, and experiencing agriculture for the sake of others.

“This is how one should regard us, as servants of Christ and stewards of the mysteries of God. Moreover, it is required of stewards that they be found faithful.” 

(1 Corinthians 4:1-2)

Two students participating in an ag science lab demonstration with one smiling as the other holds some eggs.

Apply to be a Uzziah Scholar 

Anyone who has been successfully admitted to Concordia University, Nebraska and intends to major or minor in an agriculture-related program may apply for the Uzziah Scholars program. To apply, complete the application form and submit it to kellie.nelson2@cune.edu

Complete the application

Agricultural Leadership Minor

Uzziah Scholars will earn a minor in Agricultural Leadership as part of their scholar experience. Taking seven classes spread over four years, students are equipped to develop valuable professional skills that employers highly seek and also serves as a meaningful recognition of the hard work, dedication and the skills cultivated throughout the program.

Agriculture Academy: combines 2 courses within the minor for a full academic year. Uzziah Scholars work alongside agriculture professionals, gaining hands-on experience in production, business, management and financial decision-making. 

Courses

  1. AGRI 105 Becoming an Agricultural Leader 
  2. BUS 195 Leadership Foundations 
  3. VCLD 201 Vocational Followership 
  4. AGRI 200 Agriculture and Decision-making for a Faith-Inspired World 1
  5. AGRI 201 Agriculture and Decision-making for a Faith-Inspired World 2
  6. VCLD 301 Leadership 
  7. AGRI 496 Agricultural Leadership Capstone

Kellie Nelson

Uzziah Scholars Program Director

402-643-7143 kellie.nelson2@cune.edu
Dunklau Center 031
Meet Kellie

Dr. Kimberly Clark

Assistant Professor of Agricultural Science

402-643-7349 kimberly.clark@cune.edu
Dunklau Center 115
Meet Kimberly
What are the requirements to receive a Uzziah Scholarship?

Students who apply for the Uzziah Scholarship must remain active members of the Uzziah Scholars program. Uzziah Scholars must major or minor in an agricultural program, maintain a minimum major GPA of 3.5 and cannot receive sports or performance scholarships while in the program. They will also be required to participate in development and leadership activities determined by the Uzziah Scholars Director.

What is the benefit for being a Uzziah Scholar?

Uzziah Scholars receive an annual scholarship of $5,000 each year for up to five years while attending Concordia University. Scholars also benefit from many networking and leadership opportunities designed to help them successfully obtain and navigate a career in agriculture after graduation. 

How will I know if I’m accepted into the program?

Applications will be reviewed within two weeks of submission and applicants will be notified of the committee’s decision via email.