Dawn Stewart Memorial Scholarship
Livestock breeders throughout the United States are experiencing a shortage of large animal veterinarians. Further, there is a great need for veterinarians who specialize in the care of camelids, specifically alpacas.
The Dawn Stewart Memorial Scholarship is for students currently enrolled in their second, third, or fourth year of an accredited veterinary school who demonstrate an interest in camelid animal medicine. Scholarship funds will only be awarded to support education at U.S.-based institutions that offer a camelid (Alpaca) program or classes supporting alpaca animal health.
The Dawn Stewart Memorial Continuing Education Grant is for practicing veterinarians seeking to build knowledge and skills in camelid care, with a focus on alpaca medicine and husbandry. This division addresses the shortage of veterinarians with camelid expertise in many regions.
Veterinary Students
Dawn Stewart Memorial Scholarship
Scholarship Amount: $3,000
Applications must be postmarked by May 1, 2026. Scholarship recipient(s) will be notified by July 2026 and will be paid directly to the school in September.
To Qualify:
Must be a Citizen of the United States.
Submit a résumé describing activities and job history.
Provide two letters of reference, one from an animal science professor and one from a personal acquaintance.
Provide proof of full-time enrollment in a college or university for the upcoming Fall Semester, e.g., copy of course schedule, signed statement from advisor.
Provide a transcript copy and current GPA.
Submit an essay of no more than 1,000 words on why you are passionate about large animal nutrition and medicine, and specifically your desire to serve the alpaca community.
Practicing Veterinarians
Camelid Veterinary Continuing Education Grant
Scholarship Amount: $1,500
Applications must be postmarked by May 15, 2026.
To Qualify:
Must be a Citizen of the United States
Licensed veterinarian in good standing
Currently practicing in an area with perceived camelid veterinary care shortages
Commitment to applying acquired knowledge to serve camelid owners in your region
No previous receipt of this grant
2025 Scholarship Recipients
Ariana Bilderback
LSU School of Veterinary Medicine
Matti Renikow
University of Wisconsin—Madison
Rebecca Kanoza
Iowa State University