While currently hard at work completing his last year of studies at the University of Manitoba Faculty of Agricultural and Food Science, Ryan Murphy has set high aspirations for himself; aspirations we at the MCGA have no doubt he will soon achieve. Murphy was the winner of this year’s Manitoba Canola Growers University of Manitoba Scholarship.
Murphy works hard during the school year, serving as a Team Leader in Logistics and Production for NuEats Food Innovation, a company that develops and produces innovative food products that showcase the culture of food innovation. He has been involved in the development of novel food products and packaging, including a roasted buckwheat snack and a beta-glucan fruit bar. He has conducted research projects with a focus on extracting value-added components from agri-food materials.
Apart from his academic and professional life, he also enjoys curling, golf, strategy gaming and stock trading. It was his commitment to academics while engaging in extracurricular activities that made him a desirable candidate for the scholarship. One of the conditions of the scholarship is that the recipient demonstrates involvement in extracurricular activities and maintains a minimum grade point average of 3.5.
Murphy is also first-rate ambassador of the Be Well philosophy MCGA promotes. The concept of living well, eating well, and being well is about passion, balance and a strong foundation –something Murphy is all too familiar with. It takes balance and motivation to do all that he does academically, professionally and recreationally but he finds time for it all with the help of those close to him. “I am inspired by the people around me, my friends, family, professors and peers,” Murphy acknowledges. He knows exactly what keeps him focused “I am driven by a deep fascination with how the world works.”
His graduation at the end of this academic year is a testament of Murphy’s on its own, as this degree usually takes four years to complete but he is completing it in three. His education won’t end there; after he graduates he intends to pursue a Master’s degree in food science. Where does he see himself in ten years? “In 10 years, I hope to be taking a leadership role in bringing new food products to the marketplace,” replies Murphy.
It’s exactly this vision and determination the MCGA proudly supports through it scholarship program. “MCGA feels very strongly that we need to develop young leaders and this scholarship is one way to do this,” says MCGA President, Ed Rempel. “We are strong supporters of young people in all areas of our industry –they are our decision makers of tomorrow” he adds.
The scholarship is valued at $2,100 and is given out on a yearly basis.
Be Well…Wendy
