By Scout Nelson
Inspired by a hands-on class at a 4-H event, Rose Latta discovered her passion for flour milling — a field she now plans to pursue professionally. The experience of transforming wheat into flour and then cookies helped her connect food production from farm to table.
“I was fascinated by how milling works and how it connects to the food we consume every day,” Latta wrote in her scholarship essay. “At that moment, I realized the impact milling has on the world, and I fell in love with the process.”
This deep interest and commitment to improving the food system led to her receiving the David Radenberg Memorial Scholarship, a $1,000 award for Kansas students pursuing agricultural careers. The scholarship is managed by Kansas Wheat and honours a respected leader in the wheat industry who was known for advancing wheat research and promoting U.S. wheat internationally.
According to Kansas Wheat CEO, “This year’s scholarship recipient echoes that passionate belief in how agriculture helps make the world a better place.”
Latta is studying milling science and management at Kansas State University, with minors in leadership and financial planning. She also works at the Hal Ross Flour Mill, gaining experience in mill operations and leading tours that educate both domestic and international guests.
She remains active in campus and community organizations, including the K-State Milling Science Club and the Sunflower 4-H Club.
“Milling is a critical part of the food system,” she wrote, “not only in feeding humans, but also in providing food for animals and a variety of other products.”
Latta’s goal is to make a lasting impact on the global food system through innovation and leadership in milling science.
Photo Credit:kansas-state-university
Categories: Kansas, Crops, Wheat, Education