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Henry County Cattlemen put their money where their mouth is
Cattlemen invest in future of agriculture with $1,000 scholarships to local FFA members
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MT. PLEASANT — As part of their ongoing mission to support the next generation of agricultural leaders, the Henry County Cattlemen have awarded $1,000 scholarships to four outstanding local FFA students: Ethan Graber, Alexis Francy, and Tyi Alter from the Mt. Pleasant FFA Chapter, and Elyssa Graber from the WACO FFA Chapter. The scholarships will go toward their second semester college expenses next year.
Henry County Cattlemen President Adam Smith expressed pride in the organization’s ability to give back.
“All the extra money from the donations goes straight back into helping the youth … We don’t like to sit on the money. [We] like to spend it and give it back as much as we can,” Smith said.
That philosophy underpins the group’s grassroots fundraising efforts, which are as flavorful as they are effective.
Much of the scholarship funding comes from the Cattlemen’s mobile charcoal grill, a staple at community events. The group kicks off its grilling season each year at the Mt. Pleasant Farmers Market, where they cook every Wednesday evening beginning in May. They also grill at the Henry County Fair — one of their biggest fundraising opportunities — serving crowds attending the demo derby and other events.
“That grill makes us a lot of money,” Smith noted. “It helps pay for those scholarships, supports the food and consumer science classes here in the county, and the FFA programs.”
The Cattlemen are also providing multiyear support to help launch the New London FFA Chapter and continue to sponsor local FFA banquets and events, ensuring youth have the resources and recognition they deserve.
This year's scholarship recipients reflect the caliber of young leaders the Cattlemen are proud to support.
Ethan Graber is a standout in the Mt. Pleasant FFA Chapter, known for his extensive involvement in agriculture and leadership. A 2024 Iowa FFA Degree recipient, Ethan earned a gold rating in the Job Interview competition at the 2025 District Convention. In 2022, he won the Brownfield Ag News Youth in Ag Award and participated in the 2021 Governor’s Charity Steer Show. Ethan is also a district officer and agricultural advocate, recently speaking with legislators at the State Capitol.
Tyi Alter, also from Mt. Pleasant, shares a strong passion for livestock judging and public service. He joined Ethan in the Southeast District Livestock Judging Contest and at the Gold Buckle Contest in 2024, where their team placed 5th. He also took part in the Legislative Symposium, engaging with lawmakers about key ag issues.
Alexis Francy serves as the Mt. Pleasant FFA Chapter Secretary and excels in leadership and livestock. Her Supervised Agricultural Experience (SAE) involves helping manage her family’s cow-calf operation. She placed 3rd in the 2024 Southeast District Livestock Judging Contest and plans to attend Kirkwood Community College to study nursing or physical therapy.
Elyssa Graber, representing WACO FFA, balances her involvement in agriculture with a wide range of extracurriculars. A violinist, athlete, and actress, she brings passion and versatility to everything she does — from the track to the livestock barn.
Smith emphasized that continued community support is essential to keeping these programs thriving.
“Just buying beef helps,” he said. “Hamburger, steaks, roast — keep cooking with beef. It’s more flavorful than the other ones.”
He also encouraged people to attend local grilling events, donate during the annual banquet, or even become a Henry County Cattlemen member.
“Friend of the industry is $100 a year, or if you’re a producer, it’s under $25,” he said.
For Smith, the work is about more than food — it’s about legacy.
“We’re trying to help out the youth as much as we can … and promote the industry. Hopefully, we’re making everybody proud,” he said.
By combining hard work, community support, and a sizzling grill, the Henry County Cattlemen are ensuring that the future of agriculture remains strong, local, and full of opportunity.
Comments: AnnaMarie.Kruse@southeastiowaunion.com
