SMA Foundation
The SMA Foundation was formed in 1987 using donations from SMA members interested in assisting students pursuing meat industry careers. Through the generosity and support of many contributors over the years the Foundation’s growth has enabled it to award over $1.4 million in scholarships since 2000. In 2025, the SMA Foundation awarded over $160,000 in scholarships.
The Bob Ondrusek Memorial Scholarship
The Bob Ondrusek Memorial Scholarship is named in honor of the longtime SMA member, leader and passionate advocate of young people and education. The recipients are selected based upon their qualifications by the Foundation’s board of Trustees.
The SMIKIDS Ltd. Scholarship
The SMIKIDS Ltd. Scholarship is donated by the family of longtime SMA member, Burley Smith of Lone Star Beef Processors in San Angelo, TX. These scholarships are awarded to outstanding meat science students at Smith’s alma mater, Texas A&M University.
SMA Foundation Scholarship
SMA Foundation Scholarship funds are generated by donations and proceeds from the Foundation’s annual golf tournament.
SMA Convention Scholarships
SMA Convention Scholarships are funded by fundraising events at the annual convention as well as private donations.
The funds for the Foundation Scholarships, the Supplier Scholarships and the SMA Convention Scholarships are disseminated to universities within the traditional SMA membership area and are awarded through those universities’ internal procedures in accordance with the Foundation’s criteria.
The SMA Foundation is a 501(c)(3) organization, and donations to it are tax deductible. If you are interested in making a contribution, please contact us at info@southwestmeat.org.
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