By: Cynthia Grau/WJEZ News

PONTIAC – Amy Wyant of Odell is a recipient of the 2015 First Choice Agriculture Scholarship from 1st Farm Credit Services.
Wyant, a senior at Pontiac Township High School, is the daughter of Sean and Tracey Wyant. She has been active in 4-H and FFA.
According to a press release from Karen Blatter, communication specialist for 1st Farm Credit Services, the company recently announced the 24 recipients of the $1,500 scholarship, which supports students who are pursuing a higher education in an agriculture field or a degree that will contribute to the quality of rural life.
2015 marks the 22 year of a high school scholarship program being offered by 1st Farm Credit Services. Since 1994, the association has funded more than $375,000 in scholarships.
“These scholars play an important role in the future of agriculture and their commitment to agriculture is evident in their past experiences and future goals,” said 1st Farm Credit Services President/CEO Gary J. Ash. “This program is just one way our association can invest in the future of rural America, by encouraging and helping young farmers and people who want to have a career in agriculture and rural communities.”
Recipients were selected from a pool of 134 applicants based on their future commitment to rural America, academic achievement, community activities and agriculture involvement. An independent panel of leaders in farming, agribusiness, youth and education selected the scholarship recipients.
In the fall, Wyant plans to attend Black Hawk Community College and then transfer to University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign to study veterinary science. She hopes to start her own veterinary clinic and hospital.
A banquet and formal presentation of the scholarships will be hosted by 1st Farm Credit Services for the students and their parents in June.