Hamilton Community Foundation awards $390,950 in scholarships to 139 outstanding students
The Hamilton Community Foundation (HCF) continues to grow its scholarship program thanks to the generosity and long-term vision of donors who believe in the power of education. Since 1965, HCF has remained committed to helping students throughout the community pursue higher education and achieve their goals.
This year, HCF is honored to award $390,950 in scholarships to 139 outstanding students. These awards provide meaningful financial support as recipients continue their academic journeys and prepare for future careers. By investing in local students, HCF and its donors are not only helping individuals succeed but also contributing to the continued strength and vitality of Hamilton County.
Congratulations to the 2026 recipients!
The Agriculture Future of America Scholarship – Brooks Handrup, Aurora High School, 2026; Son of Brandon and Deanna Handrup; Northeast Community College; Diversified Agriculture.
The Aurora High School Alumni Association Scholarship – Madisyn Willis, Aurora High School, 2023; Daughter of Micah and Sara Willis; University of Nebraska - Kearney; Business Administration with an emphasis in Accounting.
The Aurora High School Alumni Association Class of 2026 Scholarship – Canon Allen, Aurora High School, 2026; Son of John and Suzanne Allen; University of Nebraska - Kearney; Business and Finance.
The Aurora High School Alumni Association Legacy Scholarship – Zildjian Sandberg, Aurora High School, 2026; Daughter of Bobbi Jo Sandberg; University of Nebraska - Lincoln; Fisheries and Wildlife and Grassland Ecology.
The AHS Class of 1975 Memorial Scholarship – Emely Gonzalez, Aurora High School, 2026; Daughter of Mauricio and Maria Gonzalez; Central Community College - Columbus; Forensic Science.
The Lauren Akerson Memorial Scholarship – Ryan Staehr, Aurora High School, 2026; Son of Jay and Kim Staehr; University of Nebraska - Kearney; Secondary Education & Sports Administration.
The Wilbur C. Akerson Memorial Scholarship – Emma Ellis-Sack, Aurora High School, 2025; Daughter of Angelique Sack; University of Nebraska - Lincoln; Animal Science - Pre-Vet.
The Shirley A. Andersen Memorial Teaching Scholarship – Hayden Farris, Hampton High School, 2024; Son of John and Regina Farris; University of Nebraska - Kearney; Social Sciences and Secondary Education.
The Arthur H. Anderson Memorial Scholarship – Kenna Merrihew, Aurora High School, 2026; Daughter of Braxton and Shana Merrihew; Northwest Missouri State University; Animal Science - Pre-Vet.
The Ward B. Andrews Memorial Scholarship for Business – Paityn Wyatt, Aurora High School, 2026; Daughter of Brock and Jenny Wyatt; Grand Canyon University; Business Management.
The Deryl and Janis Arnold Memorial Scholarship – Darlene Groetzinger, Aurora High School, 2026; Daughter of Marc and Stacy Groetzinger; Chadron State College; Legal Studies.
Kiersten Mersch, Hampton High School, 2026; Daughter of Bill and Kerilyn Mersch; Southeast Community College - Beatrice; Agribusiness and Animal Science.
Sophia Schulze, Hampton High School, 2026; Daughter of Cory and Beth Schulze; Wayne State College; Sports Management.
Sydni Steinke, Aurora High School, 2026; Daughter of Kevin and Paige Steinke; Central Community College - Grand Island; Undecided.
Tegan Burson, Aurora High School, 2026; Son of Joe and Angie Burson; Mitchell Technical College; Utility Line.
The Aurora Baha’i Community Scholarship – Micole Yockey, Aurora High School, 2026; Daughter of Dan and Denae Yockey; Northeast Community College; Pre-Radiology Technician.
The Aurora Chamber of Commerce Scholarship – Zachary Peters, Aurora High School, 2026; Son of Brian and Heather Peters; University of Nebraska - Kearney; Accounting.
The Aurora Cooperative Scholarship – Alizabeth Nielsen, Minden High School, 2026; Daughter of Anson and Amanda Nielsen; Nebraska College of Technical Agriculture; Livestock Management.
Alyssa Johnson, Minden High School, 2026; Daughter of Bradley and Julie Johnson; Fort Hays State University; Agriculture Education.
Brooks Handrup, Aurora High School, 2026; Son of Brandon and Deanna Handrup; Northeast Community College; Diversified Agriculture.
Devin Wall, Nebraska Christian, 2026; Son of Daren and Voleta Wall; Dordt University; Agriculture Services Technician/ Diesel Mechanics.
Ian Schiller, West Point Beemer High School, 2026; Son of Chris and Michelle Schiller; University of Nebraska - Lincoln; Agribusiness.
Karah Bartels, Silver Lake Public School, 2026; Daughter of Todd and Becky Bartels; Colby Community College; Beef and Equine Production Management.
Kayden Crosby, Aurora High School, 2026; Son of Mike and Carrie Crosby; Northeast Community College; Agronomy.
Lizzie Black, Kearney Catholic High School, 2026; Daughter of Kendall and Kathryn Black; University of Nebraska - Lincoln; Agronomy.
Weston Panko, Heartland Community Schools, 2026; Son of Nathan and Lacey Panko; University of Nebraska - Lincoln; Animal Science.
Wyatt Dose, Hampton High School, 2026; Son of Shane and Theresa Dose; University of Nebraska - Lincoln; Agribusiness.
The Aurora Education Association Scholarship – Wyatt James, Aurora High School, 2023; Son of Kiley and Charly James; University of Nebraska - Lincoln Secondary Education and Social Sciences.
The Aurora Rotary Club Scholarship – Brett Mellies, Aurora High School, 2026; Son of Amy and Brian Mellies; University of Nebraska - Lincoln; Mechanical Engineering.
The Aurora Wrestling Club Scholarship – Evan Hermanson, Aurora High School, 2025; Son of Tessa Stevens and Justin Hermanson; University of Nebraska - Kearney; Business Administration with an emphasis in Finance and Political Science.
Jack Allen, Aurora High School, 2023; Son of John and Suzanne Allen; University of Nebraska - Kearney; Political Science and Geography.
The Herbert and Doris Bankson Memorial Scholarship – Brooklyn Christenson, Aurora High School, 2025; Daughter of Jerrid Christenson and Teresa Miller; Wayne State College; Nursing.
The Ivan M. and Agdie I. Bengtson Scholarship – Arizona Johnson, Aurora High School, 2025; Daughter of Jeremy and Lori Johnson; Augustana University; Communication Disorders.
Colby Miotke, Aurora High School, 2023; Son of Doug and Christina Miotke; University of Nebraska - Lincoln; Nutrition
The Big Iron Realty Scholarship – Kayden Crosby, Aurora High School, 2026; Son of Mike and Carrie Crosby; Northeast Community College; Agronomy.
The Doyle and Evelyn Bish Memorial Scholarship – Ayden Scott, Giltner High School, 2026; Son of Drew Scott and Sara Carlson; Northeast Community College; Nursing.
The George C. and Sarah Strickler Bute Memorial Scholarship – Aidan Feely, Aurora High School, 2022; Son of William and Dawn Feely; Reformed Theology Seminary; Master of Divinity.
Annalese Talkington, Aurora High School, 2023; Daughter of Brad and Holly Talkington; University of Nebraska - Lincoln; International Business.
Breckin Hatch, Aurora High School, 2024; Son of Michelle Whelan; University of Nebraska - Lincoln; Finance.
Derek Wilson, Aurora High School, 2024; Son of Rodney and Kristen Wilson; University of Nebraska - Lincoln; Advertising and Public Relations.
Devin Otto, Aurora High School, 2023; Son of Jay and Michelle Otto; University of Nebraska - Lincoln; Business Administration.
Ethan Ramaekers, Aurora High School, 2024; Son of Ryan and Jen Ramaekers; University of Nebraska - Lincoln; Computer Science.
Jacob Fink, Aurora High School, 2025; Son of Cassie and Jeff Fink; University of Nebraska - Lincoln; Fisheries and Wildlife with a focus in Law Enforcement.
Kaelin Sparr, Aurora High School, 2024; Daughter of Darren and Darla Sparr; Fort Hayes State University; Health and Human Performance.
Kaiden Wineteer, Aurora High School, 2024; Son of Ryan and Cassie Wineteer; University of Nebraska - Lincoln; Management.
Kaylee Jensen, Aurora High School, 2025; Daughter of Julie and Casey Jensen; Augustana University; Exercise Science.
Keegan Chaney, Aurora High School, 2025; Son of George and Tammy Chaney; University of Nebraska - Lincoln; Marketing and Management.
Kylee Young, Hampton High School, 2024; Daughter of Joshua and Amber Young; Bellevue University; Business Leadership and Management.
Lucas Talkington, Aurora High School, 2025; Son of Brad and Holly Talkington; University of Nebraska - Lincoln, Acting.
Madisyn Willis, Aurora High School, 2023; Daughter of Micah and Sara Willis; University of Nebraska - Kearney; Business Administration with an emphasis in Accounting.
Maggie Brandt, Aurora High School, 2025; Daughter of Jeremy and Dawn Brandt; Northeast Community College; Nursing.
Trenten Stevens, Aurora High School, 2026; Son of Travis and Tiffany Stevens; Friends University; Christian Formation and Ministry
The Dean and Pat Carriker Memorial Scholarship – Gavin Logue, Aurora High School, 2026; Son of Ryan and Sandra Logue; Hastings College; Accounting - Construction industry focused.
The Carl Chader Memorial Scholarship – Kyler Luebbe, Hampton High School, 2026; Son of Heather Reisbeck and Seth Luebbe; Hastings College; Pre-Med / Physicians Assistant.
Porter Dose, Hampton High School, 2026; Son of Grant Dose and Amanda Mickey; Wayne State College; Business Administration and Finance.
The Megan K. Christenson Memorial Scholarship – Zachary Peters, Aurora High School, 2026; Son of Brian and Heather Peters; University of Nebraska - Kearney; Accounting.
The Jim and LaVonne Clarke Scholarship – Alexis Ericksen, Aurora High School, 2026; Daughter of Kara Ericksen and Jacob Ericksen; Northeast Community College; Animal Nutrition.
Eli Bish, Giltner High School, 2026; Son of Heath and Karissa Bish; Northeast Community College; Agribusiness.
Litzy Ledezma Martinez, Giltner High School, 2026; Daughter of Elia and Yoni Ledezma; Central Community College - Hastings; Business.
Makenna Hanke, Aurora High School, 2026; Daughter of Travis and Jen Hanke; Central Community College - Columbus; Exercise Science.
Gentri Rasmussen, Aurora High School, 2026; Daughter of Wes and Glinda Rasmussen; Capitol Beauty School; Cosmetology.
The Cornerstone Bank Scholarship - Aurora – Jordyn Slagle, Aurora High School, 2026; Daughter of Jake and Colleen Slagle; University of Nebraska - Kearney; Political Science.
The Cornerstone Bank Scholarship - Giltner – Owen Nuss, Giltner High School, 2026; Son of Cody Nuss and Cassandra Davis; Wayne State College; Education.
The Cornerstone Bank Scholarship - Hampton – Porter Dose, Hampton High School, 2026; Son of Grant Dose and Amanda Mickey; Wayne State College; Business Administration and Finance.
The Tom, Les and Murial “Skip” Cornwell Scholarship – Kenna Merrihew, Aurora High School, 2026; Daughter of Braxton and Shana Merrihew; Northwest Missouri State University; Animal Science - Pre-Vet.
The Edward and Alma Daniel Memorial Scholarship – Gentri Rasmussen, Aurora High School, 2026; Daughter of Wes and Glinda Rasmussen; Capitol Beauty School; Cosmetology.
The Alice G. Eberhard Memorial Scholarship – Danielle Dowling, Hampton High School, 2024; Daughter of Troy and Rhonda Dowling; Wayne State College; Elementary Education.
Lillian Dose, Hampton High School, 2023; Daughter of Shane and Theresa Dose; Concordia University; Art Education and Studio Art.
Skyler Schiedemann, Hampton High School, 2025; Daughter of Corey and Jami Scheidemann; Wayne State College; Elementary Education.
The Thelma Clara Elkjer Memorial Scholarship – Kash Majerus, Aurora High School, 2025; Son of Samantha and Ryan Majerus; University of Nebraska - Lincoln; Animal Science / Pre-Vet.
The Fred and Helen Emken Memorial Scholarship – Sofia Hendrickson, Aurora High School, 2024; Daughter of Rob and Michelle Hendrickson; Wayne State College; Instrumental and Vocal Music Education PK-12 and Vocal Music Performance.
The Bob and Carol Ernst Memorial Scholarship – Ryan Staehr, Aurora High School, 2026; Son of Jay and Kim Staehr; University of Nebraska - Kearney; Secondary Education & Sports Administration.
The Frank M. and Alice Farr Trust Scholarship – Aiden Bish, Aurora High School, 2025; Son of John and Nicole Bish; University of Nebraska - Lincoln; Marketing.
Cody Holtzen, Giltner High School, 2026; Son of Michele Traudt; Kansas State University; Nuclear Engineering.
Collin Stolpe, Aurora High School, 2026; Son of Joe and Amber Stolpe; Concordia University; Criminal Justice and Cyber Security.
Emary Rhoades, Aurora High School, 2025; Daughter of Jon and Cristin Rhoades; University of Nebraska - Kearney; Pre-Radiology Tech.
Emma Hitts, Aurora High School, 2025; Daughter of Felicia Hitts and Foster Hitts; Wayne State College, Nursing.
Gavin Logue, Aurora High School, 2026; Son of Ryan and Sandra Logue; Hastings College; Accounting - Construction industry focused.
Gracie Kreutz, Giltner High School, 2026; Daughter of Jim and Jaime Kreutz; Arizona State University; Marketing and Professional Sales.
Jasmine Hansen, Aurora High School, 2025; Daughter of Jon and Joyce Hansen; Chadron State College; Secondary Education Family and Consumer Science and Special Education.
Jayke Krueger, Aurora High School, 2026; Daughter of Doug and Cami Krueger; University of Wyoming; Kinesiology.
Jorja Pohlmeier, Aurora High School, 2025; Daughter of Lindsey Pohlmeier; Doane University; Music Performance and Psychology.
Kimberly Evans, Aurora High School, 2024; Daughter of Penny and Robert Evans; Peru State College; Wildlife Ecology.
Kyler Luebbe, Hampton High School, 2026; Son of Heather Reisbeck and Seth Luebbe; Hastings College; Pre-Med / Physicians Assistant.
Parker Smith, Aurora High School, 2025; Son of Bob and Tonya Smith; University of Nebraska - Kearney; Business Administration with an emphasis in Marketing and Finance.
Tainee Merrihew, Aurora High School, 2026; Daughter of Braxton and Shana Merrihew; University of Nebraska - Lincoln; Actuarial Science.
Zildjian Sandberg, Aurora High School, 2026; Daughter of Bobbi Jo Sandberg; University of Nebraska - Lincoln; Fisheries and Wildlife and Grassland Ecology.
The Frank M. Farr Rotary Club of Aurora Scholarship – Savanna James, Aurora High School, 2026; Daughter of Charly and Kiley James; Eckerd College; Marine Science.
The John and Imogene Florea Memorial Scholarship – Kaitlyn Oswald, Aurora High School, 2023; Daughter of Chad and Joni Oswald; University of Iowa; Neuroscience.
The Wilt & Eileen Forsman Memorial Scholarship – Kendal Wineteer, Aurora High School, 2026; Daughter of Ryan and Cassie Wineteer; University of Nebraska - Omaha; Fine Arts / Art Education.
The Brent and Michael Furse Memorial Scholarship – Samuel Wishman, Hampton High School, 2024; Son of John and LeAnn Wishman; University of Nebraska - Lincoln; Journalism.
The Joan M. Gilbert Memorial Scholarship – Brooklynn Christenson, Aurora High School, 2025; Daughter of Jerrid Christenson and Teresa Miller; Wayne State College; Nursing.
The Giltner Alumni and Community Foundation Scholarship – Ayden Scott, Giltner High School, 2026; Son of Drew Scott and Sara Carlson; Northeast Community College; Nursing.
Kailyn Wilson, Giltner High School, 2026; Daughter of Michael and Amy Wilson; Creighton University; Pre-Med.
Owen Nuss, Giltner High School, 2026; Son of Cody Nuss and Cassandra Davis; Wayne State College; Education.
The GNSD Trade and Technology Scholarship – Colton Ghering, Labette County High School, 2026; Son of Jason and Heather Ghering; Coffeyville Community College; HVAC.
The Ray A. and Frances Griffin Memorial Scholarship – Wade Ohlson, Aurora High School, 2023; Son of Cory and Tracy Ohlson; University of Nebraska - Lincoln; Agribusiness.
The Rhonda Grosshans Memorial Scholarship – Kendal Wineteer, Aurora High School, 2026; Daughter of Ryan and Cassie Wineteer; University of Nebraska - Omaha; Fine Arts / Art Education.
The Hamilton Co. Jr. Pork Producers Scholarship – Emma Ellis-Sack, Aurora High School, 2025; Daughter of Angelique Sack; University of Nebraska - Lincoln; Animal Science - Pre-Vet.
The Glenn R. and Eva E. Haworth Scholarship – Eva Fahrnbruch, Aurora High School, 2023; Daughter of Dusty and Deb Fahrnbruch; Nebraska Wesleyan University Accounting.
Hannah Janda, Aurora High School, 2025; Daughter of Brent and Danielle Janda; Nebraska Wesleyan University; Athletic Training.
Kasey Schuster, Aurora High School, 2023; Daughter of Scott and Dara Schuster; Nebraska Wesleyan University; Nursing.
The John E. Haworth Memorial Scholarship – Kassidy Quandt, Aurora High School, 2024; Daughter of Ken and Kimberly Quandt; University of Nebraska - Kearney; Biology with an emphasis in Health Science / Pre-Dentistry.
Makenna Oswald, Aurora High School, 2025; Daughter of Chad Oswald; University of Nebraska - Omaha; Pharmaceutical Sciences and Mathematics.
The HCF Women in Philanthropy Scholarship – Paityn Wyatt, Aurora High School, 2026; Daughter of Brock and Jenny Wyatt; Grand Canyon University; Business Management.
Zachary Peters, Aurora High School, 2026; Son of Brian and Heather Peters; University of Nebraska - Kearney; Accounting.
The B. Keith and Norma F. Heuermann Scholarship – Hannah Janda, Aurora High School, 2025; Daughter of Brent and Danielle Janda; Nebraska Wesleyan University; Athletic Training.
The Howard Holland Memorial Scholarship – Carsen Staehr, Aurora High School, 2023; Son of Jay and Kim Staehr; University of Nebraska - Omaha; Kinesiology with a specialization in Physical Therapy.
The J. Walter and Thelma Hudson Memorial Scholarship – Sofia Hendrickson, Aurora High School, 2024; Daughter of Rob and Michelle Hendrickson; Wayne State College; Instrumental and Vocal Music Education PK-12 and Vocal Music Performance.
The Melvin and Virgie Hurst Memorial Scholarship – Ashlyn Kottwitz, Aurora High School, 2026; Daughter of Dean and Jill Kottwitz; Peru State College; Creative Marketing and Journalism.
The Veedis “Veda” Jacobs Memorial Scholarship – Naela Merrihew, Aurora High School, 2024; Daughter of Shana and Braxton Merrihew; University of Nebraska - Kearney; Biology with an emphasis in Health Science / Pre-Optometry.
The Jean Jemison Memorial Scholarship – Avery Reeson, Giltner High School, 2026; Daughter of Kevan and Laura Reeson; University of Nebraska - Lincoln; Pre-Radiation Sciences.
The Bonnie Jones Nursing Scholarship – Adrianna Brei, Aurora High School, 2026; Daughter of Lisa Olson and Matt Brei; Briar Cliff University Nursing
The Diane Keller Healthcare Scholarship – Micole Yockey, Aurora High School, 2026; Daughter of Dan and Denae Yockey; Northeast Community College; Pre-Radiology Technician.
The Floyd Kerr and William M. Bobst Memorial Scholarship – Delaney Nachtigal, Aurora High School, 2023; Daughter of Kim Wierenga and Jay Nachtigal; University of Nebraska - Kearney; Health Sciences.
Dylan Danielson, Aurora High School, 2023; Son of Darin and Carol Danielson; Hastings College; Business Administration.
Ella Sandstrom, Aurora High School, 2023; Daughter of Karl and Kristina Larson and the late Lisa Sandstrom; University of Nebraska - Lincoln; Psychology / Human Development and Family Science.
Ella Curtis, Aurora High School, 2026; Daughter of Dave and Amy Adams; Jonathan and Ashley Curtis; University of Nebraska - Lincoln; Sports Media and Communications and Broadcasting.
Tyler Mollevik, Hampton High School, 2026; Son of Danielle Mollevik; University of Nebraska - Kearney; Construction Management.
Grace Howland, Aurora High School, 2025; Daughter of Kyle Howland and Kimberly Kruse; Wayne State College; Psychology.
Kennedy Kleinschmidt, Aurora High School, 2025; Daughter of Monica Masters and Scott Kleinschmidt; University of Nebraska - Lincoln; Psychology / Women’s and Gender Studies.
Lilliauna Champion, Aurora High School, 2025; Daughter of Meagan and Tim Champion; University of Nebraska - Lincoln; Elementary Education.
Nevaeh Lukassen, Hampton High School, 2024; Daughter of Heaven Hall and Randy Maahs, Ryan Lukassen; University of Nebraska - Kearney; Early Childhood and Family Advocacy.
Samuel Wishman, Hampton High School, 2024; Son of John and LeAnn Wishman; University of Nebraska - Lincoln; Journalism.
Trinity Uhrmacher, Aurora High School, 2026; Daughter of Jeff and Stacie Uhrmacher; Briar Cliff University; Business.
The Floyd Kerr and William M. Bobst Memorial Community College Scholarship – Annalise Jones, Aurora High School, 2025; Daughter of Lance and Reba Jones; Northeast Community College; Veterinary Technology.
Faith Utley, Aurora High School, 2026; Daughter of Amber Leetch; Southeast Community College; Nursing.
Jacob Sandmeier, Aurora High School, 2021; Son of Joseph and Jill Sandmeier; Central Community College - Grand Island; Electrical Technology.
Emely Gonzalez, Aurora High School, 2026; Daughter of Mauricio and Maria Gonzalez; Central Community College - Columbus; Forensic Science.
The Keystone Lodge #62 Scholarship – Taylor McDole, Doniphan-Trumbull, 2026; Daughter of Stephanie Epley; Wayne State College; Art Education.
The Ken Killion Memorial Scholarship – Wyatt Dose, Hampton High School, 2026; Son of Shane and Theresa Dose; University of Nebraska - Lincoln; Agribusiness.
The Norma J. Kreutz Memorial Scholarship – Noah Ziegler, Aurora High School, 2022; Son of Dan and Dixie Ziegler; University of Nebraska - Kearney; Technology Education.
The Patricia A. Kreutz Memorial Scholarship – Hannah Vermillion, Aurora High School, 2026; Daughter of Megan and Alex Hageman; University of Nebraska - Lincoln; Interior Design and Art.
The Myrl S. & Bessie Evans Mather Foundation Scholarship – Brett Mellies, Aurora High School, 2026; Son of Amy and Brian Mellies; University of Nebraska - Lincoln; Mechanical Engineering.
The Evelyn May Memorial Scholarship - College Students – Addison Fahrnbruch, Aurora High School, 2025; Daughter of Dustin and Deborah Fahrnbruch; Doane University; Secondary Education with an emphasis in English.
The Charles “Shorty” McDonald Memorial Scholarship – Annalise Jones, Aurora High School, 2025; Daughter of Lance and Reba Jones; Northeast Community College; Veterinary Technology.
The Memorial Community Health Inc. Scholarship – Avery Reeson, Giltner High School, 2026; Daughter of Kevan and Laura Reeson; University of Nebraska - Lincoln; Pre-Radiation Sciences.
The Rex and Janet Meyer Memorial Scholarship – Katelyn Goertzen, Hampton High School, 2006; Wife of Coleman Goertzen; University of Nebraska - Omaha; Masters - School Library.
Kylie Mersch, Hampton High School, 2022; Daughter of Bill and Kerilyn Mersch; University of Nebraska - Lincoln; Masters in Speech Language Pathology.
The Mid-Nebraska Disposal Scholarship – Lylah Mitchell, Aurora High School, 2026; Daughter of Travis and Amy Mitchell; University of Nebraska - Lincoln Criminology / Criminal Justice and Psychology.
The Janna Moore-Morin Memorial Scholarship – Gentri Rasmussen, Aurora High School, 2026; Daughter of Wes and Glinda Rasmussen; Capitol Beauty School; Cosmetology.
The David and Myrtle Myers Scholarship – Piper Oswald, Aurora High School, 2025; Daughter of Aaron and Stephanie Oswald; University of Nebraska - Omaha; Neuroscience.
The Alfred P. Nelson Memorial Scholarship – Keelan Phillips, Aurora High School, 2025; Son of Jody and Rebecca Phillips; Chadron State College; Biology / Pre-Med.
Laighla Gimpel, Aurora High School, 2024; Daughter of Todd and Beth Gimpel; Bryan College of Health Sciences; Nursing.
Madelyn Ramaekers, Aurora High School, 2026; Daughter of Ryan and Jen Ramaekers; University of Nebraska - Kearney; Psychology.
Mayzi Retzlaff, Aurora High School, 2026; Daughter of Duke and Joni Retzlaff; University of Nebraska - Kearney; Nursing.
The Donald A. Nielsen, Betty Lou Nielsen, and Robert L. Nielsen Memorial Scholarship – Reagan Terry, Giltner High School, 2018; Daughter of Doug and Debbie Janzen; Bryan College of Health Sciences; Nurse Anesthesia.
The Mae Gunnarson Olson P.E.O. Scholarship – Ella Eggleston, Aurora High School, 2026; Daughter of Matt and Tiffany Eggleston; Kansas State University; Interior Design.
The James Oswald Memorial Scholarship – Kayden Crosby, Aurora High School, 2026; Son of Mike and Carrie Crosby; Northeast Community College; Agronomy.
The Alta Louise Otto Memorial Scholarship – Lilliauna Champion, Aurora High School, 2025; Daughter of Meagan and Tim Champion; University of Nebraska - Lincoln; Elementary Education.
The R.M. “Bud” and Mary Ann Pence Scholarship – Thomas Brandl, Aurora High School, 2025; Son of Tami and Marcus Brandl; University of Nebraska - Lincoln; Mechanical Engineering and a pilots license.
The Harlan and Emma Jane Peterson Memorial Scholarship – Jasmine Hansen, Aurora High School, 2025; Daughter of Jon and Joyce Hansen; Chadron State College; Secondary Education Family and Consumer Science and Special Education.
The Phillips Community Scholarship – Morgan Calkins, Aurora High School, 2025; Daughter of Brian and Kim Calkins; University of Nebraska - Kearney; Business Administration with an emphasis in Accounting and Supply Chain Management.
The John F. and Mary Quinn Scholarship – Canon Allen, Aurora High School, 2026; Son of John and Suzanne Allen; University of Nebraska - Kearney; Business and Finance.
The James W. Rathman Memorial Scholarship – Eli Bish, Giltner High School, 2026; Son of Heath and Karissa Bish; Northeast Community College; Agribusiness.
The Dick and Sue Regier Memorial Scholarship Morgan Bonifas, Aurora High School, 2024; Daughter of Greg and Barb Bonifas; University of Nebraska - Lincoln; Agricultural and Environmental Sciences Communications.
The Kenneth and LaVera Regier Memorial Scholarship - 4-year – Kash Majerus, Aurora High School, 2025; Son of Samantha and Ryan Majerus; University of Nebraska - Lincoln; Animal Science / Pre-Vet.
The Kenneth and LaVera Regier Memorial Scholarship - trade, 2-year – Annalise Jones, Aurora High School, 2025; Daughter of Lance and Reba Jones; Northeast Community College; Veterinary Technology.
The Todd Alan Regier Memorial Community College Scholarship – Jacob Sandmeier, Aurora High School, 2021; Son of Joseph and Jill Sandmeier; Central Community College - Grand Island; Electrical Technology.
Phillip Kreutz, Giltner High School, 2024; Son of Jim and Jaime Kreutz; University of Nebraska - Lincoln; Agribusiness.
The Rempel Family Scholarship – Ella Eggleston, Aurora High School, 2026; Daughter of Matt and Tiffany Eggleston; Kansas State University; Interior Design.
The Blanche M. Ross Memorial Scholarship – Ella Eggleston, Aurora High School, 2026; Daughter of Matt and Tiffany Eggleston; Kansas State University; Interior Design.
The Kelly J. Ross Memorial Scholarship – Rylan Bartek, Aurora High School, 2025; Son of Todd and Melissa Bartek; University of Nebraska - Kearney; Pre-Nursing.
The Valta and Cindy Ross Memorial Scholarship – Trenten Stevens, Aurora High School, 2026; Son of Travis and Tiffany Stevens; Friends University; Christian Formation and Ministry.
The Jim Salmon Memorial Scholarship – Devin Wall, Nebraska Christian, 2026; Son of Daren and Voleta Wall; Dordt University; Agriculture Services Technician/ Diesel Mechanics.
The Betty Grosvenor Saunders Scholarship in Education – Ryan Staehr, Aurora High School, 2026; Son of Jay and Kim Staehr; University of Nebraska - Kearney; Secondary Education & Sports Administration.
The Michael J. Saxton Memorial Scholarship – Amme Hitts, Aurora High School, 2026; Daughter of Felicia and Foster Hitts; Southeast Community College - Lincoln; Health Sciences.
The Donald L. Schaffert Memorial Scholarship – Brooke Lubke, Hampton High School, 2023; Daughter of Jennifer Lubke; University of Nebraska Medical Center; Nursing.
Emma Young, Hampton High School, 2023; Daughter of Amber Young and Joshua Young; University of Nebraska Medical Center; Nursing.
Kyla Carlson, Aurora High School, 2020; Daughter of Chad and Yvonne Carlson; University of Nebraska Medical Center; Nursing.
The Stella Schaffert Memorial Scholarship – Sarah Springer, Aurora High School, 2023; Daughter of Scott and Candy Springer; University of Nebraska - Lincoln; Fisheries and Wildlife and Conservation Biology and Wildlife Ecology.
The Jean Schuster Memorial Scholarship – Kendal Wineteer, Aurora High School, 2026; Daughter of Ryan and Cassie Wineteer; University of Nebraska - Omaha; Fine Arts / Art Education.
The Arthur L. Scott Memorial Scholarship – Emma Bullerman, Aurora High School, 2023; Daughter of Mike and Michelle Bullerman; University of Nebraska - Lincoln; Grassland Ecology and Management and Fisheries and Wildlife.
The Edith L. Scott Memorial Scholarship – Kaitlyn Hunter, Aurora High School, 2025; Daughter of Bill and Jennifer Hunter; Bryan College of Health Sciences; Nursing.
The Ethel M. Shaneyfelt Nursing Scholarship – Adrianna Brei, Aurora High School, 2026; Daughter of Lisa Olson and Matt Brei; Briar Cliff University; Nursing.
The John and Edith Pratt Stauffer Scholarship – Charles Evans, Aurora High School, 2025; Son of Christian and Suzanne Evans; Concordia University; Accounting.
The Dr. Edmund A. Steenburg Memorial Scholarship – Addisyn Dummer, Aurora High School, 2023; Daughter of Ryan and Lana Dummer; Mary Lanning Healthcare School of Radiologic Technology; Radiologic Technology.
The Larry Stettner Memorial Scholarship – Wyatt Dose, Hampton High School, 2026; Son of Shane and Theresa Dose; University of Nebraska - Lincoln; Agribusiness.
The Alvin and Rose Marie Stranberg Memorial Scholarship – Peyton Hoffman, High Plains High School, 2026; Daughter of Tom and Lynn Hofmann; Chadron State College; Human Biology.
The Annita Kay Thomas Memorial Scholarship – Madison Stevenson, Aurora High School, 2023; Daughter of Tom and Julie Stevenson; Clarkson College; Nursing.
The Carol J. Thomas Memorial Scholarship – McKenzie Young, Aurora High School, 2020; Daughter of Amber and Josh Young; Xenon Academy; Esthetics.
The John G. Thomas Memorial Scholarship – Jacob Sandmeier, Aurora High School, 2021; Son of Joseph and Jill Sandmeier; Central Community College - Grand Island; Electrical Technology.
The Dale E. Traudt Memorial Scholarship – Thomas Brandl, Aurora High School, 2025; Son of Tami and Marcus Brandl; University of Nebraska - Lincoln; Mechanical Engineering and a pilots license.
The Joleen M. Traudt Scholarship – Jake Cattau, Aurora High School, 2025; Son of Sonja Janssen and Jeremy Cattau; Florida Atlantic University; Health Science.
The Jana Van Housen Memorial Scholarship – Hannah Vermillion, Aurora High School, 2026; Daughter of Megan and Alex Hageman; University of Nebraska - Lincoln; Interior Design and Art.
The Marie Vetter Memorial Scholarship – Jenna Carlson, Aurora High School, 2024; Daughter of Chad and Yvonne Carlson; University of Nebraska - Lincoln; Hospitality, Restaurant and Tourism Management.
The Delmer Wadell Memorial Scholarship – Wyatt Dose, Hampton High School, 2026; Son of Shane and Theresa Dose; University of Nebraska - Lincoln; Agribusiness.
The Wilbur Weedin Memorial Scholarship – Zildjian Sandberg, Aurora High School, 2026; Daughter of Bobbi Jo Sandberg; University of Nebraska - Lincoln; Fisheries and Wildlife and Grassland Ecology.
The Karen Louise Nielsen Wilcox Memorial Scholarship – Kaitlyn Hunter, Aurora High School, 2025; Daughter of Bill and Jennifer Hunter; Bryan College of Health Sciences; Nursing.
The Clifford Williams Memorial Scholarship – Cody Holtzen, Giltner High School, 2026; Son of Michele Traudt; Kansas State University; Nuclear Engineering.
The Dan and Jeri “Diamond in the Rough” Scholarship – Faith Utley, Aurora High School, 2026; Daughter of Amber Leetch; Southeast Community College; Nursing.
The Genene and Robert Willis Scholarship – Gavin Logue, Aurora High School, 2026; Son of Ryan and Sandra Logue; Hastings College; Accounting - Construction industry focused.
The Jim Willis Memorial Scholarship – Gavin Logue, Aurora High School, 2026; Son of Ryan and Sandra Logue; Hastings College; Accounting - Construction industry focused.
The Dr. James and Mabel Woodard Memorial Scholarship – Madison Stevenson, Aurora High School, 2023; Daughter of Tom and Julie Stevenson; Clarkson College; Nursing.
The Clair “Shorty” and Evelyn Zehr Memorial Scholarship – Canon Allen, Aurora High School, 2026; Son of John and Suzanne Allen; University of Nebraska - Kearney; Business and Finance.