A new endowment funded by long-time higher education supporters Frank and Judi Grainger will allow NC State University to enhance support of undergraduate students interested in hands-on research and travel experiences related to large-scale organic crop production.

College of Agriculture and Life Sciences Dean Richard Linton recognized the couple during a Nov. 28 luncheon for establishing a $50,000 endowment for the Department of Crop and Soil Sciences. The couple also contributed a cash gift of $2,000 so the college can award the scholarship next fall.

Award recipients, to be called the Frank and Judi Grainger/Fair Products Scholars, will be invited to participate in research activities with faculty members who are experts in large-scale organic agriculture, especially organic tobacco, small grains, corn, soybeans, sweet potatoes and peanuts.

Noting that CALS has made increasing the number of endowed scholarships for undergraduate students a top priority, Linton said, “We are deeply grateful to the Graingers for their many contributions to our college and to higher education in North Carolina. They are both strong advocates of our college and help show our impact every day. This generous gift will allow students to dream big, follow their passions and make a meaningful difference in our world, especially in the area of organic agriculture.”

Dr. Jeff Mullahey, head of the Department of Crop and Soil Sciences, added his appreciation. “In North Carolina, farmers are interested in large-scale organic production to feed our world’s growing population. This endowment will help us attract the best and brightest students to work in this area.”

Businessman Frank Grainger has been a leader in the tobacco industry, agribusiness, economic development and higher education in North Carolina. A member of the University of North Carolina Board of Governors for 20 years, he’s also served as an NC State University trustee and co-founder and chairman of the Economic Development Coalition-2000.