Agriculture is an integral part of our economy, lifestyle, and heritage in Texas. It affects every consumer multiple times a day, and is something that must be promoted, protected, and treasured as we advance into the future. As with anything important, education is a key component to sustainability going forward. The Texas FFA Association and Texas 4-H are training the next generation of leaders within the agricultural industry and beyond, thus it is vitally important that these students receive the support they so desperately need.
One Texas rancher, Richard “Dick” Wallrath of Centerville, understands the need for future leaders, which is why he has dedicated a great deal of his energy to supporting FFA and 4-H. Wallrath owns Champion Ranch outside Madisonville, Texas. A purveyor of brangus cattle and fine stock horses, the ranch is just one of his many accomplishments. Recently he authored his autobiography, Courage to Change the Things I Can, which chronicles his life and the series of events that led him to his current passion for helping youth.
Each year, thanks to Wallrath’s generosity, the members of the Texas FFA and Texas 4-H are given the opportunity to further advance their educations. Wallrath has endowed 142 annual $10,000 scholarships, 71 for FFA and 71 for 4-H. These scholarships are open to members of each organization interested in attending college, and over the last several years have been an ongoing source of financial aid for future Texas leaders.
Last year I had the opportunity to visit the Champion Ranch for a scholarship dinner, and I witnessed first hand how this larger-than-life Texan truly takes an active interest in the lives of the scholarship recipients. I salute Dick Wallrath for his commitment to Texas agriculture, especially to the youth who will carry the industry torch forward into what is sure to be a bright future. Thank you Mr. Wallrath for all you do!
