Alumnus Kellie Nelson named new program director for Concordia Nebraska Uzziah Scholars program

Concordia University, Nebraska’s Uzziah Scholars program reflects the university’s dedication 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, participating students are 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. 

In the Bible, King Uzziah is described as a powerful man, with productive farms and a highly trained and equipped army. God gave Uzziah wonderful success as long as he sought the Lord. Concordia Nebraska’s Uzziah Scholars are devoted to becoming Christian leaders, solving problems in agriculture in their local and global communities and serving as stewards of all agriculture and agricultural resources through their chosen vocations. Uzziah Scholars receive a yearly scholarship and typically major in agricultural sciences, agricultural education or business administration with agribusiness concentration, though in some instances, those minoring in an ag-related program find success in the program.  

“I have always loved agriculture and feel very fortunate to work in a Christ-centered community and in a role where I can advocate for the industry, while also preparing others to serve and lead.”

Kellie Nelson ‘24 was recently named as the new program director for Uzziah Scholars at the university. She grew up on a farm and ranch in Kansas.  

“My family has a cow and calf operation where we raise Hereford-Angus cross cattle,” she said. “In addition, we raise wheat, milo, corn and soybeans. Most of our farm ground is dryland. Growing up in that environment is what sparked my interest in agriculture and led me to Concordia Nebraska to pursue a bachelor’s degree in agriculture science with a minor in business. Throughout college, I took several internships to see other areas of agriculture and broaden my knowledge of the industry.” 

Nelson met her husband during her time at Concordia Nebraska. They were married in June. She began her role at the Uzziah Scholars program director in July. 

“I have always loved agriculture and feel very fortunate to work in a Christ-centered community and in a role where I can advocate for the industry, while also preparing others to serve and lead,” added Nelson. 

The Uzziah Scholars program began in 2023 and is built on four pillars: leadership, stewardship, learning and experience. Concordia Nebraska’s Uzziah Scholars have the opportunity to receive a $5,000 annual scholarship for up to five years, 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 and many other hands-on experiential learning opportunities.  

Last school year in the program’s inaugural year, Uzziah Scholars welcomed two students. Now in its second year at Concordia Nebraska, Uzziah Scholars admitted three students into the program this year. Current (new and returning) Uzziah Scholars include Nathan King of Clarinda, Iowa; Calli Korner of Schleswig, Iowa; Jenna Muntz of Louisville, Nebraska and Lane Schoff of Smithfield, Nebraska. 

“In short, Uzziah Scholars inspire collective action, practice responsible caretaking, prioritize academic excellence and spend time on the soil,” said Nelson. 

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.