ALEXANDRIA, VA, August 19, 2026 — The North American Renderers Association (NARA) is pleased to announce Carmen Howard and Audreanna Brown as the recipients of the 2026 NARA Rendering Scholarship.
Now in its second year, the NARA Rendering Scholarship was established to recognize and support students who demonstrate an interest in the vital role rendering plays in sustainability, agriculture, animal nutrition, and the circular economy. The program also helps introduce the next generation to an essential but often underrecognized part of the agricultural supply chain and encourages students to explore careers connected to the rendering industry.
Rendering plays an important role in reducing food waste by reclaiming animal byproducts and transforming them into valuable ingredients and products rather than sending those materials to landfills. Rendered materials are used in products including animal feed and pet food, biofuels, fertilizers, and other everyday goods, making rendering an important contributor to a more sustainable and circular economy.
“Supporting the next generation is an investment in the long-term strength of the rendering industry,” said Kent Swisher, President and CEO of NARA. “Through the NARA Rendering Scholarship, we have an opportunity to support talented students as they pursue their education while also introducing them to the important role our industry plays in agriculture and sustainability. This year’s winners both represent the kind of passion and potential we want to encourage, and we are proud to support them as they work toward their education and career goals.”
Carmen Howard
Carmen Howard is currently a senior at Unity Environmental University, where she is pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Animal Science with an emphasis in Sustainable Livestock Management. She anticipates graduating in 2027.
“It is an incredible honor to be selected as a recipient of the North American Renderers Association Scholarship,” Howard said. “Receiving this scholarship is meaningful because it recognizes the perseverance, dedication, and passion for agriculture that have shaped my journey. I am sincerely grateful for NARA’s investment in my education and look forward to using this opportunity to advance sustainable livestock production while strengthening the connection between agriculture and the communities we serve.”
Audreanna Brown
Audreanna Brown will begin her studies at Tuskegee University this fall, where she plans to major in Animal and Veterinary Sciences. She anticipates graduating in 2030 and plans to pursue a future career in veterinary medicine.
“Receiving this scholarship means so much to me because it will help support me as I pursue my education and work toward my future career in veterinary medicine,” Brown said. “I am very grateful for NARA’s support and for the opportunity to continue working toward my educational and career goals.”
Through the Rendering Scholarship program, NARA continues its commitment to education, outreach, and workforce development while encouraging students to learn more about rendering and its contributions to sustainable agriculture, resource efficiency, and the circular economy.
