The Food Production Solutions Association (FPSA) and its Dairy Council announced that applications are now open for the 2026 Tom Imbordino Memorial Dairy Science Scholarship. This year, the program will award two scholarships of $3,600 each, one to an undergraduate student and one to a graduate student, to support the next generation of dairy and food science professionals.

The scholarship was established in 2021 in honor of Tom Imbordino, a founding member of the FPSA Dairy Council and longtime publisher of Dairy Foods magazine. Tom was a passionate advocate for the dairy industry and a tireless champion of professional development opportunities for emerging talent. The scholarship reflects his legacy and the Dairy Council’s ongoing commitment to supporting students who share that dedication.

“The Tom Imbordino Memorial Dairy Science Scholarship is one of the most meaningful things our Council does each year. Tom believed deeply in investing in people, and this scholarship carries that spirit forward. We’re especially proud to expand our reach this year by awarding one scholarship to an undergraduate and one to a graduate student, recognizing outstanding talent at every stage of the academic journey. I encourage every qualified student to apply," said Mike Hintz, chair, FPSA Dairy Council.

The non-renewable scholarships may be applied toward tuition, fees, books, supplies, and required equipment at accredited U.S. colleges and universities. Funds are disbursed in August via a check made payable directly to the recipient’s institution.

Eligibility & Selection

Applicants must be junior- or senior-level undergraduate students or master's or Ph.D. candidates enrolled in dairy science, food science, or a related field at an accredited university physically located in the United States or Canada. Citizenship is not a selection factor. Recipients are selected on the basis of academic performance, commitment to a career in the dairy or food industry and demonstrated leadership potential.

How to Apply

Applicants must submit a completed online application including a short personal narrative, list of honors and awards, work experience summary, leadership activities, an official transcript, and one letter of recommendation. All materials must be submitted in English.

Apply online at: https://form.jotform.com/261197064617158

For questions, contact scholarships@fpsa.org or call (703) 761-2600. FPSA staff are available Monday–Friday, 9 a.m.–5 p.m. ET.

2026 Scholarship Timeline

• Application Opens: May 12, 2026

• Application Deadline: June 30, 2026

• Award Notifications Sent: August 2026 

• Funds Distributed: August 2026