AB Mauri North America awarded two $5,000 scholarships to Kansas State University’s Bakery Science and Management program students, Josi Johnson and McKenzi Weber.

The scholarships are part of a five-year, $50,000 pledge from AB Mauri North America to Kansas State University. The university’s Bakery Science and Management program is the only four-year degree of its kind in the United States.

“Students like Josi and two-time winner McKenzi are the future of our industry, and we are happy to invest in their education,” said Rick Oleshak, vice president of marketing, AB Mauri North America. “The baking challenges of tomorrow will be solved by the students of today, and we are proud to work with Kansas State University to ensure students receive the best training available.”

Recipients of the scholarship are chosen based on their ability to demonstrate baking excellence, leadership skills and an understanding of baking trends.

“It means a lot to have a leader in the industry like AB Mauri invest in our program,” said Gordon Smith, department head, Grain Science and Industry, Kansas State University. “We’re grateful for its ongoing support and the positive impact the company makes in our students’ lives.”