The scholarship established in honor of Jillian and Ross Mickens, owners of Open Door Farm in Cedar Grove, North Carolina, will assist a student enrolled in PCC’s Agribusiness program.
Jillian and Ross founded Open Door Farm after becoming interested in learning more about where food comes from. They strive to be a source of healthy food that is produced sustainably as well as in a way that is environmentally, financially, and emotionally beneficial for consumers. They continually increase their own knowledge about sustainable agriculture through workshops, education materials, and researching.
The couple hopes to kindle that same desire for knowledge in others interested in pursuing a career in agriculture.
Jillian graduated from UNC Chapel Hill’s Master in Public Health program then became a registered dietician. During her time in graduate school, she focused her course of study on local food systems and how health professionals can help communities and individuals overcome barriers associated with accessing local food. Jillian now works full time on the farm.
Ross graduated from NC State University with a Master’s in Computer Engineering. Ross is an all-around Jack-of-all-trades (master at some!). He is an Electrical Engineer with a knack for solving technical and mechanical problems. He is passionate about local food and learning more about innovative ways to increase farm sustainability.
Jillian and Ross are both graduates of Bartlett Yancey High School and grew up in rural Caswell County. Though they currently live and farm in rural Orange County, their roots run deep in Caswell County where both of their families still reside.
Award: A scholarship, in the amount of $350, will be awarded to one student in the Agribusiness Program.
Criteria: The awards will be distributed based on the following criteria:
- 2.0 GPA or above.
- Financial need.
- Individual’s potential to achieve established academic goals.
Procedure: The awards will be made by the Scholarship Committee of the Piedmont Community College Foundation. The Scholarship Committee is responsible for the overall student application process and administration of these scholarships. In accordance with the established Foundation guidelines, all candidates shall submit a completed Piedmont Community College Foundation Scholarship Application Form together with two (2) letters of recommendation, a copy of his or her high school transcript, and, as applicable, transcripts from postsecondary institutions attended.
History Note: Established December 2020
The next scholarship round will be held March 1 – April 12. The application will be available on the PCC Foundation Scholarship page.
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