Benjamin Janssen selected for NRD scholarship

Benjamin Janseen of Marquette was named one of the 2020 recipients of the Raymond A. Burke scholarship through the Natural Resources District.

Ben is the son of Steve and Donna Janssen. A 2019 graduate of Nebraska Christian High School, he participated in many leadership and extracurricular activities, as well as maintained an excellent GPA.

He has just completed his freshman year at UNL where he is currently pursuing a degree in horticulture with a specialty crop option.

Ben is also interested in plant biology, ecology, and management. He is passionate about the conservation of Nebraska’s native plants and natural landscapes. His career goals include working in plant science, prairie restoration, and natural resource management in Nebraska.

Each spring the NRD board selects two recipients to receive Raymond A. Burke Scholarships. These awards in the amount of $2,000 are designated for district residents who are full-time students pursuing a two-year or four-year degree at a Nebraska college or university.

Recipients must be enrolled in a natural resources program or related field and intend to enter the workforce upon graduation in a hands-on position such as farmer, conservationist, land manager, ag educator, or engineering technician.

Expanding agricultural and environmental education opportunities for the next generation of district residents is important to the board of the Upper Big Blue Natural Resources District.

This year’s recipients include schools and individual students from Hamilton, Polk and York counties.