Student Scholarships
2026 Scholarship & Travel Grant Opportunities
Rocky Mountain IFT provides Educational Scholarships ($2000 each)
and Travel Grants ($1000 each) to eligible students!
2027 Applications will Open Soon!
2026 Recipient
Anushuya Guragain
Rocky Mountain IFT Educational Scholarship. After earning a Master’s degree in Food Engineering and Bioprocess Technology, where she researched photodynamic treatments and inactivation kinetics of foodborne pathogens, Anushuya began her Ph.D. at Colorado State University. Her research addresses a critical gap in the food industry, as there are currently no microgreen-specific safety guidelines. Through the development of a microgreens safety system, she is investigating microbial risks throughout production and storage while evaluating decontamination strategies in controlled growing environments. Beyond the laboratory, she has demonstrated a strong commitment to leadership and community engagement through organizations such as YPARD Nepal, the Nepal Eco-Friendly Leo Club, NEFOSTA, and her leadership role at the 9th National Conference on Food Science and Technology. Anushuya is dedicated to advancing food safety through research and innovation, interdisciplinary collaboration, and policy development. Her determination, academic excellence, and passion for improving public health through food safety research make her a deserving recipient and a promising future leader in the food industry.
2026 Recipient
Amelia Osburn
Rocky Mountain IFT Educational Scholarship. Amelia is currently a Nutrition Science student at Colorado State University. Inspired by her mother’s career path, Amelia hopes to become a Registered Dietitian specializing in sports nutrition, helping athletes maximize their performance through evidence-based nutrition. She is already gaining valuable hands-on experience as a practicum student at CSU’s Moby Arena, where she supports student-athletes by preparing post-workout meals, snacks, and protein shakes. Amelia is hardworking, compassionate, and deeply intentional in all that she does. Her resilience, passion, and genuine commitment to making a positive impact on those around her make her a deserving recipient and promising future leader in the food and nutrition. industry.
2026 Recipient
Lali Sánchez-Snow
Rocky Mountain IFT Educational Scholarship. Lali is currently pursuing a B.S. in Fermentation & Food Science with a concentration in Fermentation Science & Technology and a minor in Entrepreneurship & Innovation at Colorado State University. She has a clear vision for her future: to open and operate a bar featuring her own hand-crafted beverages that not only creates a welcoming space and celebrates the Latino community but also educates people about the dangers of underage drinking. Lali's ambition is evident in her hands-on industry experience as a student staff member at CSU’s Ramskeller Pub & Grub. She also demonstrates remarkable leadership skills by fostering inclusive environments and serving her community as an Adult Youth Engagement Specialist at TAC212, a Teen Activity Center. Lali is making meaningful strides towards her goal, and she is already a positive force in her community. Her empathy, strong work ethic, academic excellence, and dedication to uplifting others make her a deserving recipient of this scholarship and make her a promising future business leader in the beverage industry.
2026 Recipient
Maria Vaaler
Rocky Mountain IFT Educational Scholarship. Maria graduated from Colorado State University with a B.S. in Fermentation and Food Science with a concentration in Fermentation Technology and a minor in Food Safety. As an undergraduate researcher in Dr. Charlene Van Buiten’s Food Structure and Function Laboratory, she has contributed to projects focused on fermentation, allergen mitigation, and sustainable food innovation, earning co-authorship on multiple research presentations. Beyond research, Maria was an undergraduate teaching assistant for Fermentation Microbiology, served as a student ambassador and departmental DEIJ representative, and gained valuable industry experience through positions with Anheuser-Busch, New Belgium Brewing, and the North Dakota Department of Environmental Quality. Following graduation, Maria will remain at CSU to pursue her Master’s degree in Food Science, with long-term goals of earning a Ph.D. and leading research and development efforts focused on sustainable proteins and nutrient-dense, sensory-friendly foods. Her commitment to scientific innovation, education, and community impact makes her a deserving recipient and a promising future leader in the food industry.
