Kansas State University student Dena Bunnel is K-State’s 31st Harry S. Truman Scholarship winner.

Bunnel, of Welda, is a senior in political science and agricultural communications and journalism. As a 2009 Truman Scholar, she will receive up to $30,000 for graduate studies toward a career in public service.

K-State ranks first in the nation among public universities in producing Truman scholars. Bunnel’s award brings the university’s total to 31 and one alternate since the first scholarships were awarded in 1977.

The scholarship will assist Bunnel in her career in sustainable agriculture, where she will pursue graduate studies in international agriculture and rural development. She plans a career working as a project designer or manager for agriculture development programs in low-income countries. Specifically, she would like to work in Africa with extension programs promoting sustainable agriculture practices.