Who are the Scholars?
Each year the program will select 10 new Scholars. They will be juniors in high school at the time of applying and must have met the requirements of the Lone Star Degree to apply. The applicants should be highly motivated students with a deep interest in the topic of leadership.
 
How will they be selected?
The criteria for selection will be based upon six characteristics of leadership: action, relationships, vision, character, awareness, and continuous improvement. These six characteristics were identified by leaders of the agriculture industry as essential characteristics of leadership. The selection process includes an application, examination covering a leadership book, and an in-person evaluation. A selection committee will review applications and will conduct in-person interviews.
 
How will Scholars enhance those qualities of leadership?
The Scholars will participate in a week-long training seminar prior to state convention. During that time, they will begin to think about a community service project to work on for the remainder of their time as a scholar. Each Scholar will be assigned a mentor who will assist the Scholar through their leadership project during the fall semester. In late winter/early spring, each Scholar will present his or her project results to the entire group for evaluation. If completed successfully, the Scholar will have effectively completed the Ford Leadership Scholars program.
 
What do Scholars receive as a result of the program?
Scholars have a tremendous opportunity to grow as leaders through the training they will receive, the relationship with their mentor, and the exposure they will have to key business and industry leaders. The scholars will also be recognized on stage at the State FFA Convention and receive a $1,000 scholarship.
 
How long does this process from application until conclusion take?
Applications are due in January for the program. Selection of students will conclude in May. The training will be in June, and the community service projects begin in August. Project evaluation will occur in the spring. The entire Ford Leadership Scholars process should take about 1 full year from application until conclusion. 
 
How do I apply?
The entire application is completed through the online roster system. Advisors must log onto the Roster System to select students to apply.
 
The application process requires both student and advisor submission, so students should submit the application in a timely manner, allowing for advisor approval.