Kenneth D. Getz Memorial Agriculture Studies Scholarship Fund
An award from the Fund will be made annually to Morton High School (MHS) and to Tremont High School (THS) to grant the Kenneth D. Getz Memorial Agriculture Studies Scholarship to a graduating senior at each school. This scholarship will assist the students in attending a college or university to pursue a degree in agriculture or an agriculture-related field—such as agricultural science, agribusiness, animal science, crop science, horticulture, or agricultural education. Other agriculture-focused degree paths may also qualify.
The Kenneth D. Getz Memorial Agriculture Studies Scholarship is available to local high school seniors planning to pursue a degree in an agriculture-related field, with the intent of building a career in agriculture. The scholarship is administered through the Morton Community Foundation.
The fund awards two annual scholarships to high school seniors from Central Illinois—one from Morton High School and one from Tremont High School—who plan to attend a college or university with a strong agriculture program. Priority will be given to students with a demonstrated interest in agriculture as a career, especially those with a farm background or active involvement in agricultural education programs like FFA.
Kenneth D. “Ken” Getz, a 1953 graduate of the University of Illinois College of Agriculture, was the son of a farmer who never went beyond the eighth grade. Ken became one of the first local farmers to earn a four-year degree, setting him apart as a forward-thinker and lifelong learner. His education positioned him as an innovator in his field, equipping him with advanced knowledge in agronomy, plant science, tillage, and marketing.
In 2011, Kenneth D. Getz was honored as “Illinoisan of the Day” at the Illinois State Fair, a distinction awarded to individuals who embody the values of service, leadership, and dedication to their communities. Ken’s lifelong commitment to agriculture, his role as a mentor to fellow farmers, and his generous spirit made him a deserving recipient of this prestigious recognition.
Ken didn’t just use his education for personal advancement—he became a trusted mentor and resource for fellow farmers across the region. As a longtime Pioneer Seed Corn dealer, Ken was known for his thoughtful guidance and generosity in sharing what he had learned. His peers regularly sought his advice, relying on his deep understanding of soil conditions and crop performance to make informed decisions.
graduating high school seniors interested in applying should contact the counseling office at their respective high school—either Morton High School or Tremont High School—for application details.
To make a tax-deductible donation to this endowment fund, you can:
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Donate by check: Make it payable to Morton Community Foundation and mail it to 135 S First Ave, Morton, IL 61550. Please write “Ken Getz Ag Scholarship” on the memo line.
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The Caterpillar Foundation is proud to offer the year-round Matching Gifts Program to support their employees, U.S. retirees and board of directors in their contributions to worthy causes. Eligible Caterpillar participants may request an annual total maximum 1:1 match of $10,000 USD each calendar year to eligible charities to which contributions are tax deductible. The Morton Community Foundation is an eligible charity. So, if you are an eligible Caterpillar participant, you may submit any donations to this fund for an equivalent match, up to your total maximum of $10,000 per year. CLICK HERE to link to the Caterpillar Foundation’s Matching Gift website.