Kendall Snyder, North Carolina State University, was awarded the Frank Perdue Scholarship Student of the Year during the USPOULTRY Foundation College Student Career Program, held in conjunction with the 2025 International Production & Processing Expo (IPPE). This scholarship pays tribute to Frank Perdue’s commitment to mentoring young individuals pursuing careers in the poultry industry. Perdue was a dedicated supporter of the College Student Career Program, actively participating in student interviews for many years. Ella Taylor and Matthew Hughes, both from Auburn University, were recognized in second and third place.

“We received many high-caliber applicants for the Student of the Year. It is rewarding to see this program continue to grow and provide opportunities for talented future leaders in the poultry and egg industry,” commented Kevin McDaniel, chief operating officer at Wayne-Sanderson Farms, secretary for the USPOULTRY Board of Directors, and chair of the College Student Career Program Advisory Committee.

Students also competed in Club of the Year and Scrapbook of the Year contests. North Carolina State University was awarded Club of the Year, recognizing the club’s year-long activities and community engagement. The University of North Georgia earned second place, while the University of Arkansas placed third.

Texas A&M University won the Scrapbook of the Year contest. Auburn University placed second and North Carolina State University came in third.

The USPOULTRY Foundation College Student Career Program is a unique initiative within the poultry industry. Over the course of three days, the program connects leading companies with top students, providing a centralized opportunity for interviews related to industry jobs and internships. With participation from colleges and universities across the country, this program has played a crucial role in the hiring process for numerous companies for more than 40 years.