PMA foundation accepting Tip Murphy scholarship applications for industry professionals
Newark, Del. –Industry professionals interested in applying for scholarship funds to underwrite professional development training are urged to apply for PMA Foundation for Industry Talent's (PMA FIT) Tip Murphy Scholarship for Leadership Excellence. Applications must be submitted to PMA FIT by Oct. 23.
Named after industry veteran Terrence Murphy, Tip Murphy scholarships are designed to support emerging leaders by providing financial assistance to attend Produce Marketing Association and foundation leadership programs. Now in its second year, the scholarship covers registration fees and associated hotel expenses to attend one PMA/FIT leadership event of the winner's choice in 2010. Examples of professional development events include the PMA FIT Leadership Symposium, PMA's Fresh Summit International Convention and Exposition and PMA's Foodservice Conference and Exposition.
"If it wasn't for the Tip Murphy Scholarship for Leadership Excellence I am not sure I would have been able to attend the Leadership Symposium," said Michael Engeman, national banana category manager for La Manna Group and 2008 Tip Murphy scholarship recipient. "Having the course fully funded made it possible, as coming from Australia is quite costly in itself. I very much appreciate the Tip Murphy Scholarship and see this as a great way of enticing and allowing future candidates to attend similar events."
For 2010, at least one scholarship will be awarded. Applications are due Oct. 23 and are available on the foundation's Web site at www.pmafit.com. Blind applications will be reviewed by a Scholarship Advisory Council and all applicants will be notified by PMA FIT Executive Director Cindy Seel of the selection decision by Nov. 13.
"Tip Murphy knew strong leaders, like Michael Engeman, drive the future of the produce industry," said Seel. "The scholarship named in his honor specifically supports PMA FIT's development strategy to build a smarter supply chain by developing competent, skilled people prepared to lead our industry."
To be eligible, candidates must:
- be employed in any segment of the produce supply chain, both at the time of application and at the time of the chosen event;
- have been employed in the produce industry for a minimum of three years; and
- demonstrate character, leadership and a desire to make a meaningful contribution to the industry.
To be considered, applicants must submit the following:
- a completed application form;
- a personal statement describing the applicant, his/her career aspirations, leadership philosophy and why a Tip Murphy scholarship is being sought; and
- a letter of support from the applicant's employer (such as the chief executive officer or head of human resources).
The Tip Murphy Scholarship for Leadership Excellence is supported by the Tip Murphy Legacy Fund, a restricted account set up and funded by friends and colleagues to honor the life and career of the late Tip Murphy. The fund and scholarship program are managed by PMA FIT, in keeping with the foundation's mission to attract, develop and retain talent for the produce community.
About PMA Foundation for Industry Talent (PMA FIT)
The PMA Foundation for Industry Talent was founded in 2006 by Produce Marketing Association, the leading trade association for the produce industry. PMA FIT is a nonprofit, 501(c)(3) corporation providing produce companies with unique programs to attract, develop and retain the produce industry's most valuable resource — talented people. PMA FIT is dedicated to ensuring a quality workforce for the industry, and making a positive difference in the lives of current and future produce professionals by developing their potential for leadership, personal growth and career success. For more information, visit www.pmafit.com.
About Produce Marketing Association (PMA)
Founded in 1949, the Produce Marketing Association is the leading trade association representing nearly 3,000 companies from every segment of the global produce and floral supply chain. Members rely on PMA year round for the business solutions they need to increase sales and consumption, build strong professional relationships, and expand their business opportunities. For more information, visit www.pma.com.
Press Contact
Nancy Ferguson
nferguson@pma.com
+1 (302) 738-7100, ext. 3031
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