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Scholarship shows university values hard work

Student Spotlight: SIU Agriculture Student Noah Gallion

By Jeff Wilson

Noah Gallion knows the value of hard work.

An avid horseback rider and outdoorsman, the senior from Elizabethtown will graduate in May with bachelor’s degrees in agribusiness economics and agriculture education. He is a recruiter for the Agbassadors and is also involved with the Agricultural Education Club, Collegiate FFA and Collegiate Farm Bureau.

Before enrolling at SIU, Gallion was a recipient of a University Excellence scholarship.

“It was nice to know the university valued someone who had put in the work,” he said. “I can’t show my appreciation enough. Donors make so many things possible for so many students.”

Upon his arrival on campus, Gallion knew he wanted to be in the College of Agricultural Sciences, but he didn’t have a clear vision of what he wanted to study.

“There are just so many opportunities in the College of Agricultural Sciences,” he said. “The College of Ag makes you feel wanted. It’s like a close family.”

While weighing multiple job offers for after graduation, Gallion’s long-term goal is work in the hospitality industry, possibly managing a resort. He previously has spent time working in Wyoming and at the Grand Canyon.

“I enjoy working with people, engaging with them while they’re on vacation and making connections,” he said.

Earlier this year, the SIU Foundation launched Forever SIU: The Campaign for Students. The three-year campaign set a $75 million fundraising goal. Most of the money received through the campaign will go toward student scholarships.

For more information, visit www.foreversiu.org.