SILOAM SPRINGS, AR (June 17, 2024) – Today, Simmons Foods announced the 2024 award recipients for the M.H. “Bill” Memorial Scholarship program. This year’s class includes 95 high school graduates who will share more than $164,000 in scholarship awards.
Of this year’s recipients, 75 percent are attending a four-year college, 13 percent are attending community college and 12 percent are attending trade school. Additionally, 47 are first-generation college students. The top five degree paths are: engineering, nursing, computer science, education, and biology.
As Simmons celebrates its 75th anniversary this year, the M.H. “Bill” Simmons Memorial Scholarship is also celebrating its 45th year. Established in 1979, the scholarship was started by Mark Simmons in the name of his late father and founder of the Simmons organization. The program was created to assist in the educational endeavors of the children of Simmons Team Members and growers, specifically graduating seniors who are pursuing a vocational, technical or college degree program. More than 1,300 students have received grants since the program began, bringing total support to over $1.6 million. According to Mark Simmons, Board Chairman, “The M.H. “Bill” Simmons Memorial Scholarship is an example of the value we place on education and our family of Simmons team members. Each year, we are encouraged to see a new group of optimistic and hard-working students take that next step to continue their education. We are proud to lend this support to the next generation of individuals, leaders and innovators who will ensure a bright future for food production and agriculture.
In addition to the M.H. “Bill” Simmons Memorial Scholarship, Simmons Foods has a broad array of educational initiatives to provide a successful career path. Opportunities include paid internships, tuition reimbursement, on-the-job training, the Career Leadership Program and the People-First Leadership Experience.
To help celebrate their achievement, this year’s scholarship recipients received a personalized note card from Mark and Todd Simmons and a sign to display in their yard. They are also being recognized with banners at Simmons facilities that include their names and the names of their parents.
Join us in celebrating these students and wish them the best in their future endeavors!
About Simmons Foods Inc. and Affiliates
Simmons Foods and its Affiliates are leading suppliers of poultry, pet and animal nutrition products based in Siloam Springs, Arkansas. Simmons works with farmers, communities, and team members to apply 70+ years of experience to serving customers. Simmons Prepared Foods ranks in the top 15 poultry producers in the United States, Simmons Pet Food is the largest supplier of store brand wet pet food in North America, and Simmons Animal Nutrition boasts an innovative line of proprietary animal nutrition products. With 9,000 team members, Simmons Foods and its Affiliates serve customers in all 50 states and more than 40 countries around the world.
