The North American Renderers Association (NARA) has launched the Owen Vickers Memorial Scholarship, established in honor of T. Owen Vickers Sr., a longtime industry leader and dedicated advocate for sustainability in rendering.
The scholarship will be awarded annually to one student, providing $2,500 per year for two years, for a total award of $5,000. It is designed to recognize and support students with an interest in the essential role of rendering in sustainability, agriculture, animal nutrition and the circular economy.
Vickers, a third-generation leader of Birmingham Hide & Tallow Co. (BHT ReSources), devoted decades of his career to advancing the rendering industry. Beginning in 1965, he helped lead the company’s growth across multiple states while maintaining its core values, and he contributed significant time and leadership to NARA and the broader industry. His commitment to sustainability and belief in investing in future generations helped shape the industry as it exists today.
“Scholarships are one of the most important ways we can invest in the future of our industry,” said Kent Swisher, president and CEO of NARA. “Supporting the next generation of renderers ensures that the essential work we do — advancing sustainability, reducing waste and supporting agriculture — continues for years to come. Establishing this scholarship in Owen’s name is a meaningful way to honor a longtime member who dedicated his career to these values and to the advancement of rendering.”
Rendering plays a critical yet often underrecognized role in the agricultural supply chain — diverting millions of tons of material from landfills, supporting farmers, producing safe animal feed ingredients, and reducing environmental impact. Through this scholarship, NARA aims to raise awareness of the industry and encourage students to explore careers that contribute to a more sustainable future.
“During Owen’s lifetime, he quietly provided financial support to countless young people seeking to better their lives through education — including myself and many of our employees and family members at BHT. We felt it was important to publicly recognize this meaningful part of his legacy by establishing this scholarship and several others in his name,” said Michael Glenn, CEO and president of BHT ReSources.
The Owen Vickers Memorial Scholarship is open to students currently enrolled in or accepted to a college, university or trade school in the United States, Canada or Mexico. Applicants must submit a completed application, transcript, proof of enrollment, and a 500-word essay reflecting on a person who has inspired them and how that inspiration is shaping their own path.
Applications are due by June 19.
