In 1989 the Organization of Professional Employees of the U. S. Department of Agriculture (OPEDA) established the John W. Peterson Scholarship in recognition of Mr. Peterson's dedicated service as the 24th President of OPEDA. The first priority of the scholarship is to support educational activities of relatives of current employees of USDA; the second priority will be given to USDA employees.
For the past few years, OPEDA has awarded six scholarships of $500 each to students from all parts of the country. OPEDA places a high premium on education and believes that its scholarships will have a valuable give-back in the future.
Beginning in 2008, OPEDA will award a Steven "Tom" Stefani Scholarship to honor Mr. Stefani's heroic service and ultimate sacrifice in Afghanistan. Tom Stefani, a Forest Service Range Conservationist was serving on a voluntary assignment in Afghanistan when he was killed in an explosion that impacted his convoy.
The next award cycle will for the 2008 - 2009 school year. Applications are due July 31, 2008.
