Print This PageMonsanto Launches DEKALB WingWear
Monsanto’s long-standing commitment to youth in agriculture is being taken to a new level with the launch of DEKALB WingWear, a clothing line featuring custom-designed graphic apparel and accessories for young men and women.
The line is targeted to people aged 15–24, and it brings a new look and audience to the DEKALB brand – as well as scholarships to high school and college students. A portion of all DEKALB WingWear proceeds will fund the new DEKALB Ag Youth Scholarship.
"Since the first DEKALB Agricultural Accomplishment Award was presented in 1947, DEKALB has always been dedicated to the advancement of ag youth," said Jason Hoag, U.S. DEKALB Marketing Manager. "By launching our own apparel line, we take this commitment a step further, allowing tomorrow’s ag leaders to experience our brand while supporting their educational goals through scholarship."
In its inaugural year, 10 DEKALB Ag Youth Scholarships in the amount of $2,500 each will be awarded to high school and college students who are pursuing agricultural-related degrees and demonstrate strong leadership skills and community involvement. All scholarships will be administered through the National FFA. However, FFA membership is not required.
Making the connection
While the standard line of DEKALB merchandise continues to sell to farmers, dealers and retailers, the idea for DEKALB WingWear emerged from the need to create something different to connect with ag youth and introduce them to the DEKALB brand at an early age.
"We wanted to make sure we had products youth would want to wear that would still pull out DEKALB," Hoag said. "DEKALB is a recognizable logo and brand, and we needed to own that."
DEKALB WingWear takes flight
The official DEKALB WingWear launch took place at the Farm Progress Show in Decatur, Illinois in August. According to Hoag, sales exceeded expectations.
The next step for the DEKALB WingWear line will be an expanded launch at the 2007 National FFA Convention in Indianapolis in October. The entire apparel line will be available, including graphic tees, henleys, crews, tunics, jackets, hats, bags and more.
A history of supporting ag youth
DEKALB and Monsanto have a long history of supporting youth and agriculture through various organizations and programs. The DEKALB Agricultural Accomplishment Award has recognized more than 150,000 high school seniors since it started in 1947. The company also supports the FFA, Agriculture Future of America (AFA), 4-H, Ag in the Classroom and Farm Safety 4 Just Kids. In addition, the commitment to Agriculture Scholarship Award, conducted annually by Monsanto and the National Association of Farm Broadcasting, provides college scholarships to youth pursuing careers in agriculture.
"Monsanto and the DEKALB brand are committed to supporting the sustainability and growth of the agriculture industry with the next generation of young leaders," said Jim Zimmer, Monsanto’s Vice President – U.S. Branded Business. "DEKALB WingWear is just one component of the ongoing DEKALB commitment to support ag youth."
To browse the complete line of DEKALB WingWear, place orders and learn more about the DEKALB Ag Youth Scholarship, visit www.dekalbwingwear.com
Visit the Youth and Education section on our website for more information about Monsanto’s commitment to youth.
