Michael Mieden

Michael Mieden, owner and operator of Mieden Farms, established the Mieden Farms Agriculture Scholarship in 2023 to increase awareness of farming careers and support individual students pursuing a career in farming.

After graduating from Monroe Catholic Central High School (now St. Mary Catholic Central High School) in 1961, Michael studied agriculture at Michigan State University where he learned and practiced better methods of farming and became aware of the many services and resources available to independent farmers.

Mieden Farms, which was passed down to Michael from his parents, is recognized in the Centennial Farm Program, as it has been in operation by the Mieden family for over 100 years. In addition to operating his family’s farm, Michael also worked as a mechanic for Great Lakes Steel Corp. and Guardian Industries. He is also a very active member of his community through his membership and volunteering with the Carleton Area Jaycees, Carleton Investment Club, Carleton Rotary Club, Southeast Michigan Tractor Club and Divine Grace Catholic Church.

Michael credits his experience at MSU and the collegial community of independent farmers in the region for his success. This knowledge he has gained from shared experiences of fellow farmers who are always willing to help each other has helped him tremendously and greatly enriched his life as a farmer. As a result, Michael established this scholarship as a way to support and enrich the lives of future agriculture students as they prepare for a rewarding future in farming.