Student from Lenexa named 2014 Cargill Global Scholar
Wednesday, July 30, 2014
MANHATTAN — A sophomore in Kansas State University's College of Arts & Sciences has been selected as a Cargill Global Scholar for the 2014 academic year.
Sierra Lekie, Lenexa, is majoring in economics and political science as well as pursuing a secondary major in international relations.
Lekie is one of two Kansas State University students selected for the honor this year. Since the program began in 2013, the university has had four recipients of the prestigious honor. Only 10 students in the U.S. are selected for the scholarship each year. More than 250 students applied for the scholarship this year.
Cargill Global Scholars are high performing first- or second-year university students, studying in a field that relates to Cargill's business goals of providing innovative solutions to meeting today's economic, environmental and social challenges. The program is designed to equip students with the tools necessary to become global leaders and decision-makers.
As a scholar, Lekie will have the opportunity to develop leadership competencies through training modules; receive mentoring and coaching by Cargill employees; and get learning and networking opportunities with Cargill businesses. Scholars are eligible to receive an annual scholarship award for up to three years to help offset any academic-related expenses.
"I am honored to have been selected as a Cargill Global Scholar," Lekie said. "It's amazing to see a group of students from different backgrounds and disciplines come together to work on developing skills to be effective future leaders. The individuals at Cargill and the Institute of International Education have provided us with a unique opportunity to learn and develop these leadership skills. I cannot wait to continue this learning and development in the future with this program."
At Kansas State University, Lekie has been active with the Student Alumni Board, Model United Nations and the Economics Club. She is a member of Silver Key, the sophomore honorary, and also served as a member of Quest, the freshman honorary. Lekie is a 2013 graduate of Shawnee Mission West High School.
The Cargill Global Scholars program awards scholarships to students in China, Brazil, India and Russia in addition to the United States.
