Helwig Farms Livestock Judging Team Endowment Received

Goodwell, Okla. — Carl and Melinda Helwig of Columbus, Kan. recently made of generous gift of support to the Livestock Judging Team at Oklahoma Panhandle State University. Mr. and Mrs. Helwig own Helwig Farms and have raised a variety of crops in southeast Kansas over the years. Carl and Melinda also share a passion for tractor-pulling competitions and placed nationally in the 1980’s. Their donation was generated by a sale of farm equipment as Carl and Melinda retired from farming.

Carl Helwig attended Panhandle State in 1969 (then known as Panhandle State College) and participated on the livestock judging team. He holds fond memories of the livestock judging program which was under the direction of Dr. Kenneth Woodward.

University President Dr. Tim Faltyn said, “We feel so blessed to receive this gift from the Helwig family. Not only will it open up the door of opportunities for our current students, but the contribution will also help with recruitment of new students for what has been a historically strong program here at Panhandle State.”

The Helwig Farms Livestock Judging Team Endowment Fund will provide an annual amount to be used as scholarships for Panhandle State students participating in the Livestock Judging Program, with preference given to Kansas residents. The funds can also be used for livestock judging team related expenses. These scholarship funds will help with not only recruitment of new students, but also with retention of current livestock judging students. Plus, any team needs that arise can be met with the provided funds.

Dr. Sandol Johnson, Panhandle State Livestock Judging Team Coach, stated, “Mr. Helwig, an alumni and former livestock judging team member of OPSU, has graciously made a donation to the OPSU Livestock Judging Program. These monies will assist students with tuition and other expenses while judging at OPSU. We are very grateful for Mr. and Mrs. Helwig’s generosity.”

Foundation Executive Director/ Treasurer Dr. Doris Looper added, “We are so thankful for Mr. and Mrs. Helwig’s donation and the opportunities it will provide for our students.”

Philanthropic contributions to benefit Oklahoma Panhandle State University are coordinated through Panhandle State Foundation, a 501(c)3 charitable organization. The Panhandle State Foundation board of directors thanks Carl and Melinda for their outstanding support of Panhandle State and its students!