FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Media Contact: Dina Horwedel, Public Education Director, 303-426-890

Cargill $100,000 Grant Makes a Difference In American Indian Students' Lives

July 29, 2008— Denver, Colo. —Cargill announced that it has granted $100,000 to the American Indian College Fund. The gift will benefit 25 student scholarships and a professional development initiative called “Backpacks to Briefcase,” which ensures the successful transition of students to their professional lives.

Scholarship recipients are chosen based on their financial need, education enrollment status, and community involvement. Students will be notified of their selection status in August 2008 for the 2008-09 academic year.

The American Indian College Fund supports qualified American Indian scholars by providing financial support to encourage them to remain in college and complete a college degree. The Fund believes that an education enables American Indian students to make a better life for themselves and their families, while providing valuable contributions to their communities and nation.

“As a company, Cargill is committed to a culture of diversity and inclusion, and we're dedicated to supporting education in our communities,” said Margaret Studer, Vice President of Global Diversity and Inclusion at Cargill. “We are pleased to contribute to the American Indian College Fund in order to help these students succeed in the classroom, and beyond.”

Richard B. Williams, president and CEO of the Fund, said, “Cargill, through its generosity, is making a profound difference in American Indian students' lives. For most of our students, winning a scholarship is the only hope of realizing the dream of education. Cargill's grant will ensure that American Indian students can pursue their dreams, changing their lives, their families' lives, and their communities,” Williams said.

About Cargill Cargill is an international provider of food, agricultural and risk management products and services. With 158,000 employees in 66 countries, the company is committed to using its knowledge and experience to collaborate with customers to help them succeed. Cargill contributes more than $40 million a year globally to civic and charitable organizations that help nourish the people and possibilities in communities where its employees live and work. For more information, visit www.cargill.com