The MIO Coalition is a proud supporter of the Oklahoma Grocers Education Foundation (OGEF) Scholarship Program. OGEF provides scholarships to and promotes educational opportunities for Oklahoma’s graduating high school seniors and college freshmen, sophomores, and juniors. They are also available to college seniors who plan to pursue graduate studies in a subject related to the food industry.
In 2020, the Education Foundation awarded 83 scholarships totaling $53,250. Since its inception in 1990, OGEF has awarded $1.4 million in scholarships to deserving Oklahoma students. They will continue supporting Oklahoma’s students and the future of the food industry through their annual scholarships.
The Education Foundation and the MIO Coalition are a natural fit. The two teamed up soon after the Coalition organized in 2000. Through various activities, including golf tournaments, sponsorships, and other sales promotions, MIO Coalition members have raised more than $180,000 in scholarship monies over the past 20 years. By supporting Oklahoma’s students and OGEF’s mission, the MIO Coalition is contributing to Oklahoma’s future!
Scholarship applications are posted in December each year and run through February. Scholarships are awarded in early April and last for one calendar year. Recipients may re-apply in subsequent years, providing they meet the eligibility criteria. Children of full-time Oklahoma Grocers Association members are eligible to apply, as are children of food and food-related companies who are members of the OGA.