Record-Breaking 15th Iowa Youth Institute Welcomes More Than 365 Students to Tackle Global Food Security

Today, the World Food Prize Foundation hosted a record-breaking number of students to Iowa State University for the Iowa Youth Institute, marking the program's 15th year.

In partnership with the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences at Iowa State University, more than 365 Iowa students gathered in Ames to explore global challenges related to hunger, agriculture and food security. Each participant prepared a Global Challenge Research Paper focused on a food security issue in another country and presented proposed solutions in discussions with scientists, industry professionals and academic leaders.

With the powerful sound of the Iowa State University Drumline opening the day, attendees heard remarks from Tom Vilsack, Chief Executive Officer of the World Food Prize Foundation; Mashal Husain, its President; David Cook, President of Iowa State University; and Jimmy Rogers, Head Football Coach at the university, whose remarks inspired attendees with themes of leadership, resilience and teamwork.

"As you walk down your journey, it comes back to 'what is important to you,' and attack it with everything inside of you," said Rogers. "Your research, your work and your investment is the forefront of what we will be tomorrow. Your impact is going to impact so many. It is about you collaborating, it is about you and your innovative thoughts working alongside people to become the best version of yourself."

The Iowa Youth Institute connects students with leaders in science, agriculture and global development through presentations, roundtable discussions and interactive campus experiences focused on strengthening global food systems.

"The record-breaking number of students at this year's Iowa Youth Institute sends a clear and hopeful message about the future," said Husain. "More young people than ever are stepping forward, ready to tackle the complex challenges of global food security with conviction, perseverance and innovation. That momentum matters. It tells us the next generation is not only prepared to lead, but committed to building a more food-secure world."

Established 15 years ago with vital support from former Iowa Gov. Terry Branstad, the Iowa Youth Institute has grown into a leading pipeline for developing the next generation of agricultural and food security leaders.

Amb. Branstad's legacy of service now grows, as the Foundation announced the World Food Prize Foundation Ambassador Terry Branstad Scholars in STEM Award, a $5,000 annual scholarship, that will be officially awarded at the Iowa Hunger Summit on July 22, 2026 and was announced during the Iowa Youth Institute.

"Ambassador Branstad understands that the fight against global hunger begins with investing in young people and their potential," said Gov. Vilsack. "This scholarship carries forward his legacy by opening doors for Iowa students to pursue STEM pathways and equipping the next generation with the tools to lead, innovate and help feed the world."

This milestone year provides an opportunity to recognize Branstad's leadership while investing in the next generation of Iowa students. The scholarship reflects the Foundation's commitment to supporting young leaders tackling global challenges through science and innovation.

"In my tenure as the President of the World Food Prize Foundation, I had a front row seat to the enthusiasm, excitement and energy at many of these Iowa Youth Institutes," said Amb. Branstad in a statement. "I watched these students come prepared to our events with so many agriculture and STEM skills. Whether in the classroom or through organizations like FFA and 4-H, but this Iowa Youth Institute scholarship will help bring more young people into these important fields."

Over its history, the program has awarded more than $800,000 in scholarships to Iowa State University for participating students. Those who attend the Iowa Youth Institute receive a $1,000 scholarship to Iowa State University for each year they participate, renewable for up to four years for a potential total of $4,000.

Additional opportunities increase the scholarship possibilities. Students selected to attend the Global Youth Institute in Des Moines during the annual Borlaug Dialogue receive an additional $2,000 scholarship to Iowa State, while those chosen for the prestigious Borlaug-Ruan International Internship earn a $6,000 scholarship.

Since its launch, the Iowa Youth Institute has engaged thousands of students and educators across the state, encouraging young people to apply their talents to solving some of the world's most pressing challenges related to hunger, nutrition and sustainable agriculture.
For more information about the Iowa Youth Institute and the World Food Prize Foundation's youth programs, visit worldfoodprize.org/youth.