Jim McCall 2026 Eric Beck Scholarship Grading Form

Adyn Peha 

GPA: 3.5 

Ag Focus / Major:
Diesel Mechanic 

Future Plans:
I hope to become a diesel mechanic for RDO equipment. I plan to take this course in Walla Walla. Then be one of their technicians and work on customers’ John Deere equipment such as tractors and combines. After so many years after my dad retires I plan to take over the farm. This diesel Mechanic course will teach me everything about tractors and equipment which will give me skills to live on the farm and fix my own equipment to save money. Also I hope to buy one of their RDO service trucks to start my own business helping other farmers in the area. 

Awards:
I have no received any awards from 4-H, but I have participated in FFA. I went to an Ag Show in Spokane Washington and listened to the officers talk about what’s it like being a president for FFA. Also Activities I’ve been a part of. I have been apart of CBTech since my Junior year. CBTech is a technical school for the trades.  Last year I took an Engineering class. I learned about 3-D printing and small motors. This year I am in an automotive class. I learned about cars and trucks, and how they work. Everything about them brakes, engine work, maintenance, transmissions and even electrical. I have been a student of the quarter for both Engineering and automotive classes. If I’m not in school I am working on the family farm, I have lived on a farm my entire life. My experiences are driving tractors and combines. I have experience with maintenance and fixing equipment. I can weld, I help my aunt with cows. Such as fixing fences, sorting cows, calving, and branding. I can maintain cars and trucks. Also I can fix them like motor work, bearing work and electrical. For example finding draws in power or giving seats or lights power. I have experience rotating, changing and balancing tires. 

Leadership:
As a leader my freshman year I organised a pie fundraiser for my class. I planned when we were going to do it, I got a hold of Jacks Resort who makes the pies. I figured out a spreadsheet of the types of pies and how much they cost. I printed them out. I then got a hold of my classmates and put them in line to go and see people like friends and family in the community who would like to buy pies. After so many days I got back all the spreadsheets from my classmates and gave them to the gals at Jacks resort and they made them. After they were ready, the class got together to hand them out to all the orders. We made almost $3,000, all together and sold about 300 pies. .
Also I did a fundraiser at a fun run in Almira last year doing a side by side wash. I figured out what day the poker run was. I spoke to Nutrient to see if I could use their area for water and space in Almira. I gathered a couple friends that wanted to make a couple bucks. We brought pressure washers. Between the three of us we had two pressure washers and the other gathered all the money. The side by side would pull up, park. We would wash all the dirty ditch off their side by sides  they can have a clean razor for their ride home. .
Extracurricular programs that I have done are when I was a student of the quarter at CBTech in Moses lake last year. I was a part of Varsity Football all four years of my High School career. I was on Varsity Basketball for two years, also I was on Varsity golf my sophomore year. I have always been an honor roll student. 

Essay Question 1:
In my opinion the most challenging issue that my home town and the country faces is how much it costs to live. It has been getting more and more expensive to live. For example gas prices, groceries, housing. Just plain ole trying to make a future is exhausting and very expensive. In my hometown it’s worse because there are so many fewer job openings. Unless you moved here for a job opportunity or even just to stay afloat financially it is hard.   

Essay Question 2:
People that influence me the most are for sure my dad. I am exactly like him. I work with him on the farm and he teaches me all the skills I know. He gives me pointers on how to do better or how to be just a little bit more perfect. I think exactly like him, he and I like to think ahead a lot. For example if someone were to tell me something to do, while they are still talking about it I’m already thinking 3 steps ahead of how it’s supposed to work, or how it goes together. He is a great person and I want to be like him one day.  

Essay Question 3:
My parents’ involvement in Valley Wide is that my family are farmers. We are dry land farmers. We farm wheat and canola, the farm buys a lot of our tools, equipment, chemicals from Valley Wide. Now that we have been all No Till. We spray more than anything and Valley Wide helps us with that. Every year we also rent a Valley Wides fertilizer machine so we can fertilize our land before we start seeding. Valley Wide is a huge corporation where we live and it helps lots of other farmers around our farm. It helps our farm a lot.   

Mason Thomas Dubbs 

GPA: 3.9897 

Ag Focus / Major:
Agriculture or Agribusiness 

Future Plans:
Ever since I was a young child, I knew that I wanted to farm. Over the past few years, I have taken on a more active role on my family’s fourth-generation dryland wheat farm, performing mechanical work, tilling fields, and operating a combine. Upon graduation from Dordt University, I plan to return home to the family farm and partner with my uncle. As I was evaluating my post-high school plans, we discussed the skills I could gain to bring back to the farm and help it continue for many generations. Initially, I considered trade school to learn mechanical skills, but my uncle is a master John Deere mechanic who can teach me those skills. Although our farm has been successful, neither my grandfather nor my uncle has formal training in agriculture or business. As a result, we identified a need for formal training in agriculture or agribusiness. As a result, I have elected to major in agriculture or agribusiness. As economic pressure on agriculture continues to grow, farmers must understand the business of agriculture. By majoring in agribusiness, I will gain a well-rounded, hands-on, and solid understanding of agriculture, chemistry, business administration, and economics, enabling me to partner with my uncle to manage our farm effectively for generations. 

Awards:
I attend a very small school (graduating class of 3) and so I have not had the opportunity to participate in FFA. I also did not have the opportunity to participate in 4-H growing up. 

Leadership:
New Life Christian School – Associated Student Body.
Treasurer.
I served on the inaugural ASB leadership team as Treasurer. Through ASB, we coordinated activities to create a richer school environment. Our team was also responsible for planning family chapels and events for the entire school. Some of these activities were service activities (e.g., doing yardwork for neighborhood families, etc.). We also conducted fundraising activities to support ASB’s growing role in our school..
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New Life Christian School Drama.
Actor.
Upon launch of our school’s drama program, I participated in three productions: It’s a Wonderful Life: A Live Radio Play, The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe, and Mystery at Shady Acres. In addition to serving as a cast member, I helped set up for the productions and tear down the sets to prepare for school the following day. .
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Our Saviors Lutheran Church.
Member.
I have attended this church since childhood and officially became a member in 2022. Since becoming a member of the church, I have served as an usher, reader, and acolyte. In addition, I help around the church as needed, setting up for things and cleaning up after services or activities.  .
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Additional Involvement & Awards:.
In addition to these activities, here are some additional activities and awards I have received:.
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Designed and helped publish the Yearbook (part of my academic work)..
Participated in Choir (part of my academic work)..
School-wide Speech Winner (2024). Finalist for numerous years..
Grand Prize – NLCS Art Contest (2025)..
First Place – VFW Post 24 – Voice of Democracy Essay Contest (2025). 

Essay Question 1:
The biggest problem facing my community is that the value of small-town and rural life, especially agriculture, is often dismissed by urban residents and policymakers. Rural life is significantly different from urban life, and in some cases, rural and urban dwellers enjoy different things.  A significant part of small-town life is agriculture, and without agriculture, the world would go hungry. Often, people in cities do not understand the immense amount of work required to bring food from the field to the table. In today’s political environment, legislation is passed that makes the lives of farmers much harder, makes agriculture less economically viable, and prevents farmers from living their way of life. In some cases, proposed laws threaten core farming practices, such as those in Oregon targeting animal agriculture. If this law were to be passed, a rancher’s way of life would become criminal. As a result of these challenges, the land and number of farms in use continue to decline. The Farm Bureau reported in 2024 that between 2017 and 2022, the number of farms declined by 141,733, and the acres farmed declined by 20.1 million.    

Essay Question 2:
My parents, grandparents, and Uncle Nate have been the most influential people in my life. As I have grown, my parents have given me the opportunity to attend New Life Christian School and receive an excellent, Christ-centered education. My education has given me knowledge and taught me how to learn, a skill I will use throughout my life. Additionally, my parents have emphasized the importance of doing my best work the first time. I have a very close relationship with my grandparents. My grandpa and I have spent countless hours together in the field; we have had many conversations about hard work, what it takes to be a farmer, and the Bible, which have shaped who I’m becoming. My grandma always cares for me and, more importantly, invites me to help around the house, giving me valuable skills for the future.   My uncle Nate has shown me how to work on equipment and exemplifies hard work. Through helping him prepare the combines for harvest, I have learned the importance of patience and attention to detail. These lessons have helped me develop problem-solving skills, which I continue to use to fix things around the farm and our home.  

Essay Question 3:
My family was an Ag Link customer before Ag Link’s merger with Valley Wide Cooperative. Our first experience was with Ag Link when we were unable to get fertilizer from our previous supplier because they had run out of product, leaving us in a bind. We found Ag Link and, now, Valley Wide Cooperative to offer fair prices and excellent service from Dale Clark and his crew. We have been loyal customers of chemicals, fertilizer, and fuel ever since. Over the past 10 years, I have personally attended grower meetings with my grandfather and uncle and have enjoyed the educational opportunities offered at these gatherings. Additionally, my uncle had the opportunity to travel to the Midwest and attend a young/future leaders conference.   

Darrin VanderMeulen 

GPA: 3.28 

Ag Focus / Major:
Agriculture Technology with an emphasis in Farm Operations & Management 

Future Plans:
When I was six years old, I remember coming home from the last day of 1st grade. I was sitting around the table with my family at lunch when my grandpa asked when I was going to start driving a tractor to feed baby calves. I said, “Well, I guess today.” After lunch that day, my uncle showed me how to drive the tractor. When I first took off, I did not go more than ten feet before the tractor turned off because I did not weigh enough. That day, the mechanics deleted the sensor on all the tractors so I could drive them. The next day, I was driving a tractor up and down the rows giving baby calves milk.  After a few weeks, the guys said that I could back the trailers up better than any of the other guys. Over the years I have worked my way up the ladder so that now I can run almost any piece of equipment on our farm. I regularly work on the farm after school late at night, getting the field ready for planting and planting cover crops for feed. I have grown to love farm life and want to be the next generation to take over the family farm. I want to be a good farm manager and smart in agriculture, which has led me to choose a major in Ag so that one day I may return to the farm wiser and smarter. 

Awards:
Central Washington State Fair Tractor Operator 2024 – 5th Place.
Central Washington State Fair Tractor Operator 2025 – 3rd Place.
Washington State FFA Tractor Driving Career Development Event 2024 – 6th place team, 8th place individual.
Washington State FFA Tractor Driving Career Development Event 2025 – 1st place team, 5th place individual.
Vernon Bos Award for Most Outstanding Exhibitor at Yakima Valley Fair 2023.
Grandview Chamber of Commerce “The Next Generation Award” – 2024 

Leadership:
Leadership:.
2023-24 Green Valley 4-H Treasurer.
2024-25 Green Valley 4-H Vice President.
2024-25 SCHS FFA Vice President.
2025-26 Green Valley 4-H President.
2025-26 SCHS Student Council Vice President.
2025-26 SCHS FFA President.
Volunteer:.
– Ripped out grapes for the Yakima Valley Fair and Rodeo to prepare the ground for a new parking lot..
– Helped the Yakima Valley Fair and Rodeo equipment auction, consecutive years..
-Served food at the annual Yakima Valley Fair and Rodeo foundation dinner, consecutive years..
-Served ice cream at the Yakima Valley Dairy Women booth at the Central Washington State Fair, consecutive years..
-Helped at 2nd Harvest Thanksgiving food drive..
-Collected food for the local food bank each year with my 4-H club.
-Cleaned the yard for a local family whose mom suffered from brain cancer.
-Helped construct and build the new greenhouse at school.
Extracurrucular Activities:.
– Honor Roll: 2022 – Present.
– FFA Member: 2022 – Present.
– SCHS Basketball, Football, Band and Honors Choir.
– Green Valley 4-H Member: 2016 – Present 

Essay Question 1:
One of the major problems in the agriculture industry today is the growing disconnect between the public and the source of their food. The public knows nothing about where their food comes from. Much of what they see on social media is full of misconceptions of the agriculture industry. This disconnect can lead to misunderstanding about animal welfare, environmental sustainability, and modern farming practices. Through my work in agriculture technology in college, I hope to help close this gap and become a voice that connects consumers with the truth about agriculture. 
One of the biggest reasons for this disconnect is that many people have moved from rural areas to urban areas. A century ago, most families were involved in agriculture one way or another. But now, only around 2% of Americans are involved in agriculture. Now many people just see the food on the store shelves without considering where their food comes from. 
Another cause is the little time farmers in agriculture have. Farmers work long hours caring for crops and animals, often with little time to explain what they do and why. This silence allows others to come in and start to spread false information. As someone who is interested in agriculture, I see the need for better communication between producers and consumers.
Many people now don’t realize how much technology, science, and work goes into making safe and affordable food. Misconceptions can spread very quickly, especially with the help of social media. Issues that are often misunderstood include animal abuse, crop modification, and environmental practices. Some people will take these misconceptions and use them against farmers to put them out of business.
 

Essay Question 2:
My grandpa has always been someone I look up to.  In 1981 he decided to pursue a better life and opportunity for his life and family.  He packed up his wife who was pregnant and their 2 year old daughter and immigrated to the United States with 5 suitcases and $500. With no papers in hand he didn’t look back.  He worked hard for 2 years and saved every penny so he could join a dairy partnership in Washington.  Since that time he has built up an impressive dairy farm, which has the largest milking herd in the state.  Not only has he  taught me the value of hard work and perseverance, but also the value of money and to earn money you need to put in the long hours to earn that money. I am proud to say I am a descendant of him and hope to carry on his legacy in the future.
I also enjoy listening to his advice. Nearly every morning before school or work, I go to our shop to sit with him and my uncles, listening to them talking about the dairy farm and everyday life. Those conversations have taught me the value of family, and taking pride in what you do.  

Essay Question 3:
My mom’s family operates 6 different farming entities in the Yakima Valley of Washington State.  Each of these entities has an account with Valley Wide.  We purchase many things for each of the farming entities.  We have purchased seed, fertilizer and many other needs for the farm.  I have also purchased feed and items for my 4H and FFA projects that I show at the local fair. 

Blake Groeneweg 

GPA: 3.997 

Ag Focus / Major:
Computer Engineering 

Future Plans:
Choosing this major relates to my future goals because the factors I considered was that I want to work in a career involving computers or technology of some sort. I have built several personal computers for myself and friends, so this was a big factor when deciding. With this degree I can do that and there are a bunch of different jobs I can get with it too. 

Awards:
I have received a greenhand degree from ZIllah FFA. 

Leadership:
I am class president and have been throughout all four years of high school and I participate in weekly meetings. I have volunteered my time distributing food with 2nd Harvest and worked the YoungLife booth at the Central Washington State Fair. Also, I am a member of the national honor society and on track to recieve an honors diploma at graduation. 

Essay Question 1:
I think the most challenging issues our country faces that relates to my hometown of Zillah Washington is inflation and taxes. Inflation hurts the economy by making things more expensive than they are and the fact that farmers don’t make a lot of money that threatens our way of life. Taxes also play into this issue because if we must pay more taxes then we have less money to spend on essentials that are already rising in price due to inflation. Also, because of inflation the cost of labor is insanely high which also takes money out of farmers’ pockets. All of these things amount into one large issue that is currently being faced around my area and that is farmers are barely scraping by or in the negative.  

Essay Question 2:
The most influential people in my life are my parents. They have always been there for me, whenever I needed help or just to play catch, they were there. They always pushed me to do my best and try my best in anything I did like in sports or school. Their influence has shaped me into who I am today. They have been to every sporting event that I played in to cheer me on and congratulated me no matter how bad or good I did. I don’t know where I would be without them, that is why they are my most influential people. 

Essay Question 3:
My parents are Valley Wide members and have been for around 3 years. They were members when the store closest to me, which was a Bleyhl Co-Op in Zillah WA, got changed into a Valley Wide and have been Valley Wide members ever since. We use Valley Wide for all sorts of needs, that is why we like them so much, they have a little bit of everything. They also buy seed, fertilizer, irrigation supplies, and anything else that is needed on the farm. We get straw for our pigs there and extra random parts that we may need when doing a project. It is nice that Valley Wide is local because it has saved us many long trips to Yakima. 

Luke Goetz 

GPA: 3.994 

Ag Focus / Major:
Economics and International Business 

Future Plans:
When considering my future goals, my passion for my faith has always been at the forefront, alongside other interests and educational strengths. These different interests have taken the form of International Business and Trade (something I discovered through my involvement in Future Business Leaders of America), along with a passion for politics. Having considered all of my interests, it was essential to me to choose a university that not only offers a good education but also supports my faith, provides a welcoming environment, and feels like home. For me, this has led to Baylor University in Waco, Texas. The moment I stepped on campus during my sophomore year of high school, I knew that Baylor was the right fit for me. It fits all my needs and dreams, but has one major problem: the cost. As a private university, Baylor tuition alone is about $67,000 a year, a cost I will not be able to sustain for four years without scholarships. Currently, I have some money saved for college from raising pigs for 4-H and FFA, working on my family farm during the summer, and helping raise cattle. Still, even with merit scholarships from the university that would reduce costs, without financial assistance, I would have no other choice but to take out loans. .
My goal is to graduate within four years and earn dual degrees in Economics and International Business. I also hope to graduate without debt, as both my parents and my brothers did, so I can enter my career and start a family without worrying about paying off student loans. Scholarships such as the Eric Beck Memorial Scholarship make that possible and help ensure that underrepresented rural kids like me can get a quality education without being bound by their state’s boundaries. 

Awards:
North Central Washington Fair:.
– 3X Reserve Grand Champion Swine Fitting and Showing (2X 4H, 1 FFA).
– 1X Reserve Grand Champion Swine Market (4H).
– Livestock Judging Reserve Grand Champion (FFA).
Othello Fair.
– 2X Reserve Grand Champion Swine Fitting and Showing (FFA).
Employment Skills LDE.
– 4th Place at Sub-Districts (2026) 

Leadership:
School Involvement.
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Almira Coulee Hartine High School Varsity Baseball.
– Leadership: Teammate – 2025 Season on Varsity – 2023 Season on Junior Varsity.
Almira Coulee Hartine High School Varsity Basketball.
– Leadership: Teammate – 2022/23 Season of Varsity – 2023/24 Season on Junior Varsity Almira Coulee Hartine High School Varsity Football.
– Leadership: Team Captain – 2025 Season. Varsity Member – 2022-25 Seasons.
Almira Coulee Hartiline High School Varsity Golf.
– Leadership: Team Member – 2024 Season.
Almira Coulee Hartine High School Varsity Knowledge Bowl.
– Leadership: Captain – 2022-2026 Seasons (All Four Years).
Associated Student Body (ASB).
– Leadership: Elected Student Body President – 2025/26 School Year. Elected Student .
Band.
– Leadership: Alto-Saxophone Section Leader – 2023 Through 2026 School Years.
Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA).
– Leadership: Senior Member – 2022/2026 School Years.
Future Farmers of America (FFA).
– Leadership: Member – (2022-Present).
Student School Counseling Advisory Committee.
– Leadership: Committee Member.
Warrior League Community Service Club.
– Leadership: Member (2023 – Present).
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Community/Youth Organizations Involvement:.
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Almira Coulee Hartline Foundation Annual Auction.
– Leadership: Server, Usher, & Waiter.
Coulee City Assembly of God.
– Leadership: Sunday Morning Sound Board Operator – (2022- Present), Youth Group Leader – (2023-2026), Part-Time Worship Team – (2023 – Present).
Distinguished Young Women of ACH (DYW).
– Leadership: Program Curtain Operator – (2023 – Present).
Last Stand Rodeo of Coulee City.
– Leadership: Rodeo Camera Operator (2024).
Scouting America.
– Leadership: Troop Scribe – (2022 – 2024). Senior Patrol Leader – (2025).
Washington Wheat Ambassador Program.
– Leadership: Washington Wheat Ambassador 

Essay Question 1:
Having grown up in a town of 550 people has taught me many things in life, whether it be how to get along with the same 10 people from Kindergarten to Senior year, or how to care for my neighbors around me who support me in all that I do. This upbringing that I will always be grateful for is in many ways at odds with what the world that we live in today looks like; a world that seems to agree on nearly nothing, and one where compassion seems to be at the back burner of aggression and vitriol. Today, we live in a time where partisan lines are thick and rhetoric as piercing as it ever has been, both of which have threatened our way of life; a dangerous threat to small towns that have been close-knit for generations. Many say that small towns are the backbone of America, a statement that I entirely agree with, mostly because I have seen it. That is why it is so troubling to me and why I think that derision being at the forefront of the American people today is the most challenging issue that our nation faces, because if this vitriol reaches our small towns, then at its heart, America, and the spirit of America, will have been tainted. Though dangerous, I have hope that my generation will be the change and that compassion will be at the forefront of dinner table conversations all around America once again.  

Essay Question 2:
When I think about the most influential people in my life, I look to the people that have simply influenced me through their example, ones that I look up to and want to emulate. One of the first people that comes to mind that fits the bill is my brother, Kameron. Kameron and I have an eight year age gap, so much of my life and memories have been through his high school years up until now. In high school, he always carried himself with discipline in everything that he did, whether it was athletics, academics, leadership, or faith. This diligence provided an example that in my own high school years I have sought to emulate, and I will continue to do my best to emulate his example into college, and hopefully eventually marriage, where he has also continued to lead by example in his own life. It would be disingenuous to ignore where Kameron learned to be a leader; that credit belongs to my parents. My mom and dad have always been the prime example of what hard work looks like, whether it be through my dad on the farm or my mom at school and through her battles with autoimmune issues. For our entire lives my parents have provided me and my brothers with the example of what living a spirit filled life looks like and what it is like to push through challenges, an example that has contributed to my success throughout my activities and my life. W 

Essay Question 3:
My family’s involvement in the Valley Wide Cooperative stems from our fifth generation family farm. Each year, our farm does business with Valley Wide, purchasing fuel, fertilizer, and chemical material while working in close contact with their team of professionals to prepare and harvest each year’s wheat crop. I can think of countless times that I have been with my dad or grandpa where we have had to make a stop at Valley Wide in order to get whatever we may have needed at the time, and ever since a Valley Wide branch has been opened in our community, farmers from across the area often drop in for the same reasons. These resources are vital to the success of our farm and crop each year, making Valley Wide’s presence in our community and surrounding area extremely valuable. Not only is this resource valuable for our farm and farms like ours all across the region, but it is also vital to our agricultural economy as a whole, giving farmers the resources that they need to then produce and sell a crop that will then result in economic growth and prosperity. Being a farmer owned cooperative, Valley Wide’s dividend provides an unmatched support for our regional farmers, and I can personally say for our farm’s daily work. In conversations with my dad, this has been stressed as a huge asset for our farmers, an asset that helps take the everyday burden and stress of farm life a little bit lighter.   

Makenna Jaylene Heinle 

GPA: 3.983 

Ag Focus / Major:
Agricultural Economics 

Future Plans:
Agricultural Economics aligns with my goals of strengthening local and small farms while gaining hands-on experience. Through my college in the high school courses, such as Political Science, I deep dived into global issues and strengthening markets. This major will allow me to pursue my dream of aiding rural communities, allowing room for agribusiness and/or economics. .
Agricultural economics presents me with the opportunity to improve food systems, water scarcity and droughts, and climate change. I considered the skill sets I have gained, such as Calculus and current world problems skills. These applied skills will allow me to succeed in my research and internships, observing policies, and join the Food and Agriculture Business Club. I hope to make an impact on climate change and implement mitigation tactics for long-term improvements and resilient agriculture systems that benefit all. 

Awards:
N/A. 

Leadership:
Family and Career Leaders of America (FCCLA), helped me learn valuable skills such as networking, public speaking, and professional presentation. Through FCCLA, I held the role of Chapter President and guided my club toward success. I competed at the National level four consecutive times and received numerous awards for my projects, ranging from MyPlate to cyberbullying awareness. FCCLA allowed me to participate in multiple community outreaches, such as Thanksgiving turkey drives and children’s carnivals. .
As a freshman, I was elected ASB Vice President for my grade level, which included fundraising and student leadership. .
Later, I served as secretary of the Environmental Club, focusing on spreading knowledge about agriculture and global warming. I organized multiple community service acts that promoted sustainability, such as homemade paper Valentine cards, bottle cap murals, and sneaker drives. .
I was inducted into the National Honor Society during my junior year and completed a variety of community service projects, such as assembling hygiene kits for homeless individuals. I also became involved in Senior Council, volunteering at sporting events and bazaars. .
I was selected as the manager for my high school’s student concession store, Thors. I balanced tills while solving customer service needs..
I participate in the TAG library group, a teen group for my community library promoting engagement for education.  .
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I am a three-letter varsity sport athlete who has competed in varsity volleyball, varsity track and field, and varsity wrestling. I was selected as captain for the 25-26 wrestling season, and earned MVP for the 24-25 volleyball season following our 2A WIAA state appearance. As a volunteer, I also lead volleyball kids camps, helping children learn and grow their love for volleyball.  .
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I volunteer at the Selah-Naches Food Bank and hand out food, stock shelves, organize, and most importantly, help community members feel welcome and appreciated. 

Essay Question 1:
After eighteen years of growing up in a small, rural community, I have witnessed firsthand the challenges that my agricultural town faces. Economic inequality throughout the agricultural workplace is prevalent, as many small, independent farms often struggle with keeping production and labor afloat. Despite agriculture contributing to the majority of Yakima’s economy, farmers are forced to raise product costs or abandon crops. Between 2017 and 2022, the number of farms in Yakima County dropped 17%. Many farmers work in the scorching sun and cold winters, yet are still overworked and paid unfairly. While Yakima supports over 29,000 jobs and generates $1.16 billions in wages, the hard work ethic behind large farm producers often goes unseen. Many families and individuals rely on farming as their main source of income, yet rural communities’ access to healthcare and higher education is very limited. Young individuals in my community and students at my high school have been pressured to branch out of Yakima to discover higher-paying jobs that entail more opportunities for their future. Agriculture defines the Yakima Valley, but unfortunately, wage inequalities are widespread around the globe. These conditions do not affect just adults, but working teens in the field as well.  Addressing these concerns and publicizing the hard work behind the farming scene can raise awareness and ensure farmers are valued and supported for their contributions to our community and global economy.   

Essay Question 2:
The most influential individuals in my life are my grandfather and my father. Both of their lives reflect their hard-earned success and the grueling work it took them to achieve their goals.  My grandfather, 81 years old, has seen more horrors than I can imagine. After serving in the Vietnam War as a medic with no financial compensation for health damages, he continued his life in pure love. I have never met someone who matches my grandfather’s work ethic, as he works ten hours a day on his 19-acre cattle farm. However, the most endearing quality of my grandfather is his love for family. After working in any weather, my grandfather hugs me tight with a smile on his face. He consistently makes time for me, cooking a homemade dinner with fresh bread. My grandfather has inspired me to work harder than everyone in the room, because I will eventually receive what I deserve. Additionally, my father has taught me selflessness. From a low-income household, my father worked three jobs and managed three restaurants to succeed in college, sleeping in his car. My father built the life he wished he had for my sister and me, sacrificing everything. Today, he wakes up at 3 am, commutes an hour to work, and works long hours. He never misses my sporting or extracurricular events, and I am so grateful for my father and his sacrifices. The everlasting love of these two individuals has made me a well-rounded, loving individual.   

Essay Question 3:
My grandparents have been involved with agriculture my whole life. Since 1970, they have been members of Bleyhl’s and continued to stay members after the shift to Valley Wide Cooperative occurred in 2022. At the height of my grandfather’s cattle ranch, he owned 500 acres of thriving farmland. During this time, my grandfather raised alfalfa, corn, wheat, beans, and more.  Today, my grandfather (81) and grandmother (75) are still heavily rooted in agriculture, and they actively support small farms and communities through volunteer work. My grandfather works 10-hour workdays to tend to his 19 acres of alfalfa and cattle, often before tending to himself. My grandparents’ strong ties to Valley Wide Cooperative have demonstrated a strong dedication to farming communities around the Valley. They have placed farming and family at the center of their lives and represented Valley Wide admirably. Valley Wide Cooperative has supported generations of farmers like my grandparents for decades, reflecting a lifelong commitment to agriculture.  

Hadley Bleazard 

GPA: 3.8 

Ag Focus / Major:
Communications with a minor is social impact / nonprofit 

Future Plans:
Doing my CSI (community service initiative) of embracing dyslexia; advocate for the one in five with dyslexia, has truly created a passion within me to bring the support and advocacy needed for this learning disability. Dyslexia is one of the most study neurodiverse, yet is the one with the least amount of advocacy. Dyslexia effects 20% of the population meaning that 2 kids out of every class will have dyslexia. This is a major percentage, with many going undiagnosed and without support. When choosing a major I knew that I wanted to network with others, create change in the world, and that’s when I learned that I could do a major in communications with a minor in social impact/nonprofit. Starting a nonprofit that is focused on the advocacy on dyslexia and being able to distribute more of my dyslexia reading kits to kids that need them, is what I want to do with my life. By building a communications major I’ll be able to learn the fundamentals of networking; while minoring in social impact/nonprofit will give me the access and resources to create a strong nonprofit that has an impact on others’ lives. 

Leadership:
I was Miss Tri-Cities’ Teen 2025, which is a pageant in the Miss America opportunity. I placed 4th runner up at Miss Washington’s teen. I have been a varsity cheerleader at my high school for four years winning two state championships. I have also participated in track specifically pole vault where it also got a varsity letter and made it to the MCC championships. I had also played tennis for a year at my high school. I started the JustServe Club at my high school where I’ve been president for the past three years. Within this club we do service in our community and what makes it unique compared to other service clubs at the school is that there is no requirement such as grades or service hours required to join, it is open to all students. I have played piano since kindergarten. I have created dyslexia reading kits that have reading tools in them such as a whisper phone and guided reading strip to help support confidence in reading. I have raised over $2000 to supply the cost of these kits and have delivered over 1,500 kits across Washington state. These Reading Kits are in multiple libraries, schools, and boys’ and girls’ clubs. 

Essay Question 1:
In my hometown of Pasco, we are having major growth in population. In fact, my town was named for one of the “Top 10 Boomtowns in America” for 2022. Our town’s population has grown from 32,066 in 2000 to 83,742 in 2026. With this increase in population, former agricultural fields are being turned into housing and commercial zones. The issue that we are facing is that as residential areas continue to expand North and West, replacing the farmland that drives the local economy. This is making it harder for agricultural retail businesses such as Valley Ag to continue in supporting our local farmers as their land is sold for development projects. Not only that but, Pasco’s lands have very nutrient-rich soil because of when the Ice Age Missoula floods came through 18,000 years ago, transforming our soil. The soil we have here is promising and by continuing to transform it into housing is, in my opinion, a major loss. Our county harvests 28,446 acres of potatoes, contributing to Washington’s status as the provider of 23% of all U.S. potatoes. 91,494 acres are dedicated to wheat for grain making it the country’s largest crop by acreage. The city’s Land Capacity Analysis indicates that because of the population growth that expansion into agricultural land beyond city limits must be converted into residential zones to meet the growth of people. But by doing so we are wasting precious land that sustains our county.   

Essay Question 2:
Deidra Murphy is a major influence in my life. Deidra is my pageant coach and has been the one to teach me how to be a confident individual. I was diagnosed with dyslexia in second grade and su ered in silence, that created frustration, bad self-esteem, and overall made me feel dumb. For years I struggled with this, and when I decided to join a pageant using her as my pageant coach, she helped me break free of my biggest insecurity and become my most confident self. Because of her I’ve created dyslexia reading kits (That have reading tools in them). Her impact in my life goes beyond words because she changed the very mentality of who I believed I was. My grandpa is also a major influence in my life. He is the head of electrical engineering for Washington’s Transit System. I have always looked up to my grandpa because he has taught me that hard work will get you far but the simple things in life are what can give you joy. He’s a very talented musician, used to live in Hawaii and surf, takes time to go crabbing in the Puget Sound, and always makes time for his family. It’s important to have dreams and goals, but he appreciates the little things and lives in the now. Time is precious and he never fails to make the most of it, and that to me is one of the most important lessons I’ve learned.  

Essay Question 3:
My dad Kevin Bleazard and he serves as the Northwest Regional Manager for Valley Ag where he leads the company’s ag retail operations in Washington State. In his role, he helps to provide strategic oversight to the Valley Ag retail locations, ensuring they have the operational support, sales leadership and distribution necessary to deliver the crop needs to regional farmers.  He is always dedicated to supporting the local farmer, growing business and helping Valley Ag being successful in Washington State.  

Abby Lynn Lommers 

GPA: 3.91 

Ag Focus / Major:
Nursing 

Future Plans:
My experiences in leadership, service, employment, and healthcare-related programs directly connect to my long-term goal of becoming a nurse, a career I have wanted to pursue for as long as I can remember. From a young age, caring for my younger brother showed me how meaningful it is to support someone who depends on you. That desire to care for others grew stronger as I watched all four of my grandparents battle serious illnesses, including cancer. Being present during hospital visits and recovery allowed me to see the compassion and dedication nurses provide, which confirmed that nursing is the path I am meant to follow..
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Along with these personal experiences, my involvement in student government taught me responsibility, communication, and advocacy, while volunteering and working in the community strengthened my empathy and teamwork. Participating in M.A.S.H. Camp gave me firsthand exposure to healthcare settings and further reinforced my passion for nursing..
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When choosing my major, nursing was a clear choice because it aligns with my long-standing goals and experiences. I considered factors such as strong clinical training, a science-based curriculum, preparation for the NCLEX, and opportunities for hands-on patient care. Nursing will allow me to combine compassion, education, and leadership in a career dedicated to helping others. 

Leadership:
Throughout high school, I have been actively involved in leadership, volunteer work, extracurricular activities, and employment that have helped shape my sense of responsibility and commitment to service. I have held several leadership positions in student government, including Freshman and Sophomore Vice President, Junior Class Secretary, and Senior Class President. These roles strengthened my communication, organization, and leadership skills while allowing me to represent my peers and contribute positively to school culture..
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I am a member of National Honor Society, which reflects my dedication to academic excellence, leadership, and service. I also participated in M.A.S.H. Camp (Multicare Academy for Students in Healthcare), where I explored healthcare careers through hands-on learning and shadowing opportunities, further strengthening my interest in nursing..
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In addition to school involvement, I work at the Yakima Union Gospel Mission Thrift Stores, where I developed strong work ethic, customer service skills, and teamwork. I also played basketball throughout high school, except during my senior year when there was no team available. Athletics taught me discipline, perseverance, and collaboration..
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Outside of school, I volunteered with Vacation Bible School for the past four summers and assisted with the Yakima Downtown Association and Yakima Habitat for Humanity. These experiences reinforced my passion for leadership, service, and community involvement. 

Essay Question 1:
One of the most challenging issues our country faces, as it relates to my hometown and community, is the unequal access to healthcare for many families. While I am fortunate to have access to medical care, I have seen how others in my community struggle due to financial barriers, limited providers, or lack of transportation. These challenges often lead people to delay care, which can cause health issues to worsen and place additional strain on families and local hospitals. Healthcare should be something people can rely on, yet for many families it feels uncertain or out of reach. My recent foot surgery made this issue even more personal for me. Although my procedure was planned and I had access to good medical care, the recovery process was much harder than I expected. Simple daily tasks became difficult, and I had to rely on others for help. Experiencing pain, limited mobility, and the emotional frustration that comes with recovery helped me understand how vulnerable patients can feel. It made me realize that even with access to care, healing is not easy at all, and for those without proper access, the challenge is even greater. This experience gave me a deeper appreciation for nurses and healthcare providers who offer not just treatment, but reassurance and encouragement during difficult moments. Another challenge that affects my way of life is the growing need for both physical and emotional support for the elderly and those with chronic illnesses. Through my experiences with sick family members, community involvement, and now my own surgery recovery, I have seen how important compassionate and consistent care is for maintaining quality of life. Many individuals rely heavily on healthcare workers not just for medical treatment, but for comfort, communication, and advocacy. The emotional aspect of care can be just as important as the physical treatment itself. These challenges have shaped my desire to pursue nursing. Even though I personally have access to care, I want to use that privilege and my education to support those who may not have the same resources. My surgery strengthened my understanding of what it feels like to be in a vulnerable position, and it confirmed my passion for serving others during difficult times. By becoming a nurse, I hope to serve my community by providing skilled, compassionate care and helping ensure that every patient feels valued, heard, and supported.  

Essay Question 2:
The most influential people in my life have been my grandparents. All four of them have battled cancer, and walking alongside them through illness has shaped who I am and who I want to become. Two of my grandparents have passed away, and the other two continue to face health challenges. Through these experiences, I learned the true meaning of strength, resilience, and love. Watching my grandparents endure treatments, hospital stays, and recovery taught me the importance of compassion and presence. I saw how much a kind word, a gentle touch, or simply being there could make a difference during difficult moments. I also witnessed the impact that caring nurses had on my grandparents, not only through medical care, but through patience, encouragement, and advocacy. Their example showed me how powerful it is to serve others with empathy. My grandparents influenced me by teaching me to value people over circumstances and to find purpose in helping others. Their courage and perseverance continue to inspire my desire to become a nurse. I want to honor their influence by caring for others the way they were cared for: wholeheartedly, compassionately, and with genuine respect.  

Essay Question 3:
My family has been involved in farming for generations, and Valley Wide Cooperative has always played a key role in supporting our work. As farmers, we rely on their products and services to help our farm run efficiently and successfully. We regularly purchase fertilizer, seed, and equipment parts from them, which ensures our fields remain productive and well cared for. Over the years, my dad and grandpa have built a strong relationship with Valley 

Cora Louann Lott 

GPA: 3.96 

Ag Focus / Major:
Secondary Education with a concentration in Biology 

Future Plans:
Growing up, my life has been influenced by many inspiring individuals who share a love of.
curiosity and a never-ending thirst for learning. All of these people are teachers who have greatly.
impacted my life and educational journey. I have had the privilege of being the daughter of a.
teacher who not only ignites the love of learning in others but also serves as a valuable support.
system throughout the varied pathways life offers. My goal in life is to share the same sense of.
community and love for learning with future generations of students. I have always had a love.
for helping others, and it is important to me that my career focuses on providing students with.
the same meaningful support I had growing up. I know that I want to have a career that is based.
in a field of science because science is all around us and helps us understand many concepts.
about people and the universe. Therefore, that is why science is what I want to teach to future.
generations of students. It will allow me to spread my love for its principles and inspire that same.
love in others. 

Awards:
No 

Leadership:
High School Activities:.
Junior Varsity Golf (freshman), Varsity Golf (sophomore-senior), Link Crew (helps incoming.
freshmen around the school), Key Club (community service), Garden Club (learn about.
agriculture and gardening foundations), Women’s Empowerment Club (I hold an officer role; this.
club focuses on trying new things and community involvment), and National Honor Society..
Extra-Curricular:.
Wonder World Learning Center (daycare teacher), Bryden Canyon Golf Course (outdoor.
services), Bloomers Plant Nursery (retail associate), and Crosspoint House of Prayer (A group at.
the church centered around prayer and learning about Jesus)..
Volunteer:.
Bryden Canyon Children’s Golf Clinic – 24 hours.
– In charge of helping kids learn the etiquette of golf, as well as the key concepts of how to play.
the sport..
Lewiston Roundup Parking – 4 hours.
– In charge of helping vehicles navigate the parking lot for the annual Lewiston Roundup..
Blessing Beds – 2 hours.
– This volunteer job involved building bed frames that would then be distributed to children in.
need..
Food Bank – 2 hours.
– In charge of sorting various types of food for people in need..
Christmas Angels – 2 hours.
– This volunteer job allowed us to wrap many presents for families who could not afford to buy.
gifts for the holidays..
College Fair Set Up – 2 hours.
– Helped the LHS staff set up the school for colleges coming to share information about their.
institution. .
Concessions – 11 hours.
– Serving food at sporting events..
DCM.
– Helped to make care packages for the Ronald McDonald Association. 

Essay Question 1:
I believe one of the most challenging issues America faces is that some of the hardest-working individuals in our country go unnoticed. Our society is blessed to be able to walk into a grocery store and purchase a gallon of milk, as well as to have the privilege of free education. Sometimes we can take this for granted and overlook the individuals who work behind the scenes to make these opportunities possible. My father and mother are these people, and growing up, I always wished that they were acknowledged for what they do thanklessly. My dad delivers dairy products and works long hours to ensure that all stores and schools in the Lewis-Clark community (and surrounding areas) are provided with the product they need for consumption. My mother, on the other hand, is a freshman English teacher at the high school, working hard to provide valuable lessons that help students achieve a standards-based education. My parents’ combined income allows my brother and me to have a home and food on the table. Even though their jobs are not the biggest money-makers, without people who work jobs like my parents’, America would not be able to function. In today’s society, influencers on TikTok and Instagram can make more money from a post than my parents’ jobs produce in a month. I watch my dad work long hours and my mom devote family time to grading, therefore I believe it is important that citizens who work to benefit our country do not go unrecognized.   

Essay Question 2:
The most influential person in my life is my father, Bradley Lott. My dad is my rock, always offering me advice as I navigate the many struggles of my teenage years, and an abundance of love and support. Most of all, the most valuable quality about my father is his work ethic. My father is a very honorable man who works in transportation for Meadow Gold Dairy, waking up early at two in the morning and then working until four in the afternoon, sometimes even longer. There are days when he works so hard to provide for my family that he does not even get around to eating dinner before exhaustion overtakes him. My dad has taught me that hard work is one of the most important qualities a person can possess. His teachings fuel my dedication to my education and goals, and help me achieve them to the best of my ability. My dad has shown me that hard work is a necessity in life, as it builds resilience and instills a sense of pride and accomplishment. It is important to remember that hard work is what this country is built on, and not to forget the hard-working individuals who make the luxuries and conveniences in America possible. My dad has also taught me that things in life cannot just be handed to you, and I take this to heart, making sure I apply a strong work ethic in all areas of my life. Dad is not only a dedicated worker but a devoted father who has provided me with the utmost love and a beautiful childhood full of lifelong lessons and precious moments.   

Essay Question 3:
My grandfather, Carl Pendleton, the owner of Pendleton Custom Farming, has been associated with Valley Wide and other predecessor companies for over 35 years. He began serving on the board of Idaho Grange Cooperative in 1985 and was their chairman when Idaho Grange merged with Wendell Grange, creating Valley Cooperative. Grandpa remained the chairman of the Valley Cooperative throughout its existence. Valley Cooperative then merged with Valley Wide Cooperative, and Grandpa served as a chairman for Valley throughout the merging and retired in 2021. The business was so successful that when he retired, the sales were just short of half a billion dollars.   

Kache Rasmussen 

GPA: 4 

Ag Focus / Major:
Mechanical Engineering 

Future Plans:
Mechanical Engineering relates closely to my future goals because it will give me a deeper understanding of machinery and how things work. This knowledge will be extremely valuable on the farm, allowing me to repair and improve equipment such as the potato planter, the crossover, and the digger. When choosing this field, I also considered factors like salary, job growth, and job security. I realized that if taking over our third-generation family farm from my dad does not work out, a degree in Mechanical Engineering would provide a stable fallback career that would still allow me to support my family. 

Awards:
No I have not. 

Leadership:
I am a Student Body Officer at Sugar-Salem High School. I also compete in BPA (Business Professionals of America), where I qualified for Nationals in both group and individual events. I have worked with other students in a CATCH program, which is an anti-vaping program. 

Essay Question 1:
I think the most challenging issue our country faces that affects my town, community, and way of life is the growing reliance on immediate gratification. I believe this appears in the form of both instant entertainment and instant answers. Nowadays, if you are bored for even a second, you can hop onto your phone and immediately be entertained by endless hours of videos at your fingertips. And if you want an answer to a question, you can instantly look it up on Google and get a perfect response.
To me, this takes the work and satisfaction out of many things. Without boredom, you can never truly experience the joy of entertainment. Without working to find a solution or an answer, you cannot experience the confidence that comes from figuring something out on your own. When I am working with my dad, I will sometimes ask him how to do something simply because I do not want to think through the problem myself. Instead of answering right away, he often makes me think about it longer or try different ways to accomplish it on my own. This has helped me become more creative and has trained my brain to be better at problem-solving.
I believe that with so much instant gratification, our country risks losing the important skills of hard work and problem-solving.
 

Essay Question 2:
I think the most influential people in my life are my mother and father. They are the most influential because they are the ones who raised me and taught me the principles of life. One of the most important things they taught me was the value of hard work. My mother was raised on a cattle ranch in northern Utah, and my father was raised on a potato farm in southeast Idaho. Because of how they grew up, they often had to work long hours with their brothers and sisters to get everything done. As a result, they became very good at getting the important things done before taking time to play. They have taught me that skill very well. I try to live my life by that same principle: get your work done first, and then you can take time to relax. This mindset has served me well, helping me be more productive and accomplish more in my life. Their example has taught me that hard work should always come before play, and that lesson continues to guide how I approach my life and my goals. 

Essay Question 3:
My dad and grandpa are a small production farm out of Plano, Idaho. They utilize Valley Ag for their fertilizer and chemical production programs. They use crop adviser for suggestions on watering applications, crop health, and fertilizer applications. They also use Valley Ag’s bulk fuel and oil programs to support their farm and home. Valley Wide is a huge business partner and supporter for all of their farming operations. 

Audrey Evelyn Wattenbarger 

GPA: 4 

Ag Focus / Major:
Exercise Science 

Future Plans:
Majoring in Exercise Science would lead me toward my career goal of becoming a physical therapist. Some factors that I will consider when choosing this major are if it fits my academic interests and strengths, if it will lead me toward getting a Doctor of Physical Therapy degree, and if needed, what other jobs this major could lead me to. 

Awards:
“–“ 

Leadership:
I have been involved in my high school’s student government for the past three years and I am now currently serving as student body president. I was a three sport athlete during my high school career lettering in volleyball, basketball, and softball while also being a captain for both my softball and volleyball teams. For my senior project I did a service project where I made blankets and family kits for the Ronald McDonald House for the families who have to leave their homes while their children are hospitalized. 

Essay Question 1:
In my opinion, I think the most challenging issue our country faces is the rising cost of living. Being a part of an agricultural family and community I have witnessed firsthand how the high cost of crop production versus the lower market prices affect not only the farmers, but also the community as a whole. When farmers are successful, financially speaking, the money begins to flow throughout the rest of the community. Also, especially in my community, I have seen so many new housing developments which take away good farm land resulting in less area for the farmers to work with making it harder to become more financially successful. Not to mention the added traffic that makes it more difficult and even dangerous to move equipment about the valley.  

Essay Question 2:
The most influential person in my life has been my older sister Abby. Of course, as a little sister you want to copy exactly what your older sister does and for me that worked out perfectly. She was the example that led me to play my favorite sports. Without Abby’s example I wouldn’t have been a part of these teams and I wouldn’t have found some of my teammates who have become my best friends. Not only did she influence me to get involved in some of my favorite activities, but more importantly she taught me how to be kind. Abby is one of the most selfless people I know and she showed me through her example how to be kind to everyone no matter who they are or what their background is. This trait has led me to understand that everyone has their own hardships that they deal with in their life, and that no matter what the most important thing is to be kind. Abby’s example in my life has influenced me for the better and I continue to try and follow it each day.   

Essay Question 3:
My parents and grandparents are members of Valley Wide Cooperative and they raise potatoes and wheat for Wattenbarger Farms. They have been members of the co-op for over twenty years now and continue to work with Valley Wide. My uncle Bart who is also a part of the farm, currently serves on the Valley Wide board of directors. I, myself, am also a sub-contracted employee for Valley Agronomics. I have taken petiole and soil samples for the past three summers for numerous different fields so that the farmers can understand  where they need to improve with their irrigation frequency and fertilizer/chemical applications. I plan to continue doing this job in the summer of 2026 as well.   

Jacie Herbst 

GPA: 4 

Ag Focus / Major:
Nursing 

Future Plans:
I chose this program with the goal of becoming a labor and delivery nurse in mind. I enjoy being around people and being able to help them when I can, especially when it comes to women’s health. I feel as though being in this field will help me develop skills that will help me in both my personal and professional life. Nurses are needed in every community, and on top of having the passion for it, I find it to be a smart career choice because it will continue to stay in demand. 

Awards:
I participated in FFA the first year it was reintroduced to our school district, but due to a lack of knowledge, we were unable to compete or receive awards that year. 

Leadership:
I have participated in extracurricular activities such as Business Professionals of America (BPA), my high school’s volleyball team, and I managed the basketball team for two years. While participating in volleyball, I was the team captain for two years. I was also voted class president my junior year, which helped me grow a lot in my leadership knowledge. 

Essay Question 1:
I consider one of the most challenging issues the United States faces today to be the deep social and cultural division, and its effects are especially visible at the local and community level. Political division has increasingly shaped how people see one another, often turning neighbors into opponents rather than allies. In many towns and communities, conversations about national issues spill into schools, workplaces, churches, and even family gatherings, making it harder to maintain mutual respect.
This division is amplified by social media and biased news, which reinforces existing beliefs and limits acceptance of other perspectives. As a result, people may feel pressured to choose sides instead of engaging in open dialogue. In everyday community life, this can weaken cooperation, reduce civic involvement, and make it more difficult to address shared concerns such as education, public health, and economic stability. 
Overall, division in America affects not only national politics but also the quality of daily life in hometowns and communities. Communities function best when people feel connected and invested in one another’s well-being. When division dominates, that sense of connection can fade, leaving individuals feeling isolated or unheard. Addressing this challenge requires rebuilding trust, encouraging respectful conversation, and recognizing common ground, even when you are in disagreement. 

Essay Question 2:
I would consider the most influential people in my life to be my parents. They have shaped who I am through both their actions and their words, setting an example that has guided my values, work ethic, and the way I interact with others. Growing up, I watched them build their Black Angus cattle ranch business from the ground up. That experience showed me what hard work truly looks like. It’s not just long days and physical labor, but persistence, sacrifice, and commitment even when progress was slow or uncertain. Seeing their dedication taught me that success is earned through consistency and effort, not shortcuts.
Beyond their work ethic, my parents also influenced me by teaching me the importance of kindness and integrity. They often reminded me that you get back what you give, and they lived by that belief in their daily lives. Whether it was helping neighbors, supporting others in the community, or treating people fairly in business, they consistently chose kindness. Because of this, they built strong relationships and earned the trust and respect of others. I have seen firsthand how their reputation for honesty and generosity helped them form lasting business partnerships and friendships.
Most importantly, my parents taught me that success is not only measured by financial gain, but by the impact you have on others. Their influence continues to guide my choices and motivates me to work hard, set goals, treat people with respect, and contribute positively to my community. 

Essay Question 3:
My parents have been actively involved with the Valley Wide Cooperative since the very beginning of their cattle operation, and it has played a vital role in the success and efficiency of their work. From the start, they chose Valley Wide as their primary supplier because of its reliability, wide range of products, and strong connection to the local agricultural community. Over the years, Valley Wide has consistently met the demands they have faced while working in agriculture, making it a trusted and essential partner in their operation.
My parents regularly rely on Valley Wide for fencing supplies needed to maintain and expand their pastures, ensuring the safety and management of their cattle. In addition, they purchase livestock supplies through the cooperative, allowing them to care for their cattle with quality products. Beyond livestock needs, Valley Wide also provides the agronomic supplies that are crucial to their operation, including seed, fertilizer, and weed spray. 
What makes Valley Wide especially meaningful to my parents is its cooperative model and commitment to supporting local producers. They value the knowledgeable staff who understand the realities of agriculture and are always willing to offer guidance and support. By using Valley Wide consistently, my parents are not only supporting their own operation but also contributing to a cooperative that strengthens agriculture across the valley. Their long-standing involvement reflects their loyalty, trust, and belief in the importance of working together within the agricultural community. 

Hailee Joanna Stegelmeier 

GPA: 3.9 

Ag Focus / Major:
Education 

Future Plans:
As an oldest child,  I have grown up with many responsibilities taking care of my younger siblings and helping around the family farm. This has given me a passion for helping people and for agriculture. As an AG Day presenter, I have learned the importance of agriculture literacy. This has led to me having a goal to promote agriculture literacy throughout my life. One of my other goals is to make a difference in my community. To me, education is the way to do that. It allows me to make a difference to the students I teach. It also gives me opportunities to promote Agriculture in our community. I am excited to  experience new opportunities and career paths in the collegiate environment. I love learning and pushing myself to be successful. I hope to come back to the Ashton community after obtaining my degree so that I can live on the land that I love, among the people that helped me find my confidence. 

Awards:
I have won several blue ribbons in showmanship and quality during the eight years that I showed swine for 4-H. As an FFA member I have won Outstanding Junior High, Freshman, Sophomore, and Junior. I have also received my Greenhand and Chapter Degrees. This year I will be receiving my State Degree. I won first place at the Fremont County Farm Bureau Speech Contest last year. I have also competed in Livestock Judging, Extemporaneous Speaking, and Employability Skills. I am also a four year AG Day presenter for North Fremont. 

Leadership:
Extra-curriculars-.
4 years of Musical participation performing supporting roles in Anne, 7 Brides for 7 Brothers, Into the Woods and Newsies. .
4 years of Business Professionals of America, Parliamentary Procedure National competitor 3 years. .
2 years of Girls Basketball, included a 2nd place State finishing season. .
2 years Show Choir.
.
Leadership.
1 year Freshman Class President. .
Homecoming Queen.
National Red Cross Water safety Certified and Lifeguard.
American Legion recipient.
Distinguished Young Women- Be Your Best Self, Academic, Fundraising, and Spirit award.
National Honor Society Vice President.
Idaho Syringa Girls State Delegate.
Idaho Consumer-Owned Utility Association Delegate.
.
Volunteer Work-.
Roadside cleanup 8 years.
Buy a Book, Read a Book, Give a Book- 2 years.
Nursing Home Activities and Music- 4 years.
Food Bank Volunteer – 4 years.
Student Aid for Elementary- 1 year 

Essay Question 1:
In my opinion the most challenging issue facing our country today is the loss of farmland due to population growth. Our cities are growing so rapidly that developers are buying up farmland in order to build apartments and fast food restaurants. Unfortunately this is quickly starting to become more prevalent in our area. Farms are vital to feed people around the world, not to mention farming is a way of life for many families in the area. When I did my research on this topic last year for a speech competition I learned that the United States Census of Agriculture said that Idaho has lost 2,119 farms since twenty-twenty. This is alarming to me because I value the work that our farmers do, and I prefer to see fields on my drive instead of a Wendy’s. Another challenge that comes with population growth is that many people are agriculturally uneducated, which can cause misunderstandings during the busy planting and harvest season that lead to complaints, or even car accidents. However, there is still hope for Idaho communities. There is already a law that gives farmers the option to put the development rights of their land on hold in order to preserve it as farmland. As community members we can help promote agriculture literacy in order to solve misunderstandings during busy farming seasons. It is important that we educate and protect agriculture in our rural way of life.  

Essay Question 2:
One of the most influential people in my life is my Aunt Cathy. She lives close to us, so she has always been a very big part of my life. When I was little she would read lots of books with me, which inspired my love of reading. She also taught me the importance of organization and hard work combined. Aunt Cathy has a very specific way for things to get done. Our family would help her set up Christmas decorations and stock wood exactly the way she told us to. When my Grandma passed away, Aunt Cathy grew very close with my Dad and their close relationship has shaped the goals I have for my family relationships. Some other influential people in my life have been my Mom and My Aunt Heidi. Unfortunately, I never met my Aunt Heidi because she passed away when my mom was still in high school. Even though I have never personally known her, I have always wanted to be like her and my mom. In high school my aunt started the Buy-a-Book Read-a-Book program at our Elementary school where high schoolers volunteer to read books with elementary students. I remember participating in this program as both an elementary and high school student. It helped me feel connected to her. As a teacher my mom is also very involved in our community, she has taught me so much about loving other people and going the extra mile just to be a good person.  

Essay Question 3:
Our family farm has been a member of Valley Wide Cooperative since around 2010. Our family trips through Rexburg usually include a stop at the Valley Wide store to enjoy a quick drink or to purchase a variety of agricultural products. We have exclusively bought our pig feed from Valley Wide to raise our show pigs. Throughout the years we have purchased fertilizer, herbicide and fuel to keep our farm running smoothly. Valley Wide is a staple part of our family’s agriculture experience.  

Leah Schauerhamer 

GPA: 4

Ag Focus / Major:
Music Education

Future Plans:
Helping people matters a lot to me. Lately I’ve noticed there’s a growing lack of respect in the coming generation, and I believe a teacher could help reduce that. I want to make a big impact on my community because I know I can make a difference. I ask myself, was what kind of teacher do I want to be? I can learn subjects easily and quickly. However, there are few things I love more than music. Since before I can remember, I’ve sung and whistled. I’ve worked on my abilities, and everyone who has seen me perform has encouraged me to never stop. I want to keep improving my talents, and serve my community. So I have decided that being a music teacher is the best way that I can meet my goals.

Awards:
In FFA, my team and I earned third place in our district-level parliamentary procedure competition.

Leadership:
I participated in BPA for three years and developed leadership skills as part of the parliamentary procedure team, podcast production team, and interview skills. I learned that it’s necessary to listen to my team, and hear what they have to say. A good leader understands the people she’s leading. I also learned that communication is important to a leader. Interview skills have taught me to explain myself clearly so that misunderstandings are reduced or eliminated. For the past several summers, I’ve worked as a lifeguard. This is the kind of job where everything needs to go perfectly. I learned that I have an impact that can affect another person’s safety, so it is critical that I stay focused and strong enough that I can be there for people when they need me. Being there for people, and helping where I can matters a lot to me. That’s why I am always happy to volunteer and assist with roadside cleanup on the road managed by my farm, and the road managed by my ward. The nursing home also means a great deal to me, and I use my talents of singing and sewing to perform for the residents and make blankets for them. These experiences have taught me about what kind of person I am, and what kind of example I want to be. I want to be a leader who listens, learns, guides, and aids. I want to be the kind of person others can rely on.

Essay Question 1:
In your opinion, what do you consider to be the most challenging issue(s) that your country faces as it relates to your home town, community, or way of life? There are many issues in the country, however, the most concerning one I have seen is a lack of respect in the rising generation. Several times in my high school classes, students have been increasingly unkind and will not settle down enough for the teacher to teach. The few students, such as myself, who are there to learn are looked down at. They call us “try-hards” because we are planning for the future. They call us “suck-ups” because we are trying to speak up for the teacher. It is hard to stand up to them. I always felt like it wasn’t my place, or that my peers would reject me if I did. Now that I’m approaching the end of my senior year, I look back and wish I could tell my past self that it is worth standing up for what’s right, and that my peers’ opinions don’t really matter as much as I thought. I wish I could say all that, but I can’t. I can’t change the past, so my next step is to change the future. If not addressed, this disobedience could cause disasters for our country. It’s important that I, as an individual, act as an example and start making a difference in my town and community. 

Essay Question 2:
Who were/are the most influential people in your life and in what way did they influence you? There are two women who have enhanced and changed my life. The first is my cross-country coach, Holly. Since I got to know her in fifth grade, she has spent every day pushing me and seeing incredible potential in me. I was quick for my age, so she would have me run with the high schoolers. She lovingly pushed me so hard, but I did everything she asked, and I am so grateful. It taught me two things:  1. I am stronger than I know and can overcome challenges.  2. Everyone’s journey is difficult, but one small, kind word lightens the load infinitely.  Holly taught me that our words and our actions have a profound effect on those around us, and this idea was strengthened by the second most influential woman in my life: Susan. Susan was my Young Woman’s leader. She spoke with the softest voice and in her eyes sparkled a special kind of love for everyone she knew. I knew that I mattered to Susan. What an example Susan was to me, for though she was humble, she had fierce spiritual strength. I want to be like Susan and ensure that everyone I meet knows that they matter to me. I want to be like Holly, and encourage people to pursue their extraordinary potential. These women changed my life, and I want to change lives for the better, just like them. 

Essay Question 3:
Please describe your parents, grandparents, or your family’s involvement in Valley Wide Cooperative. I grew up on Baum Farms. The farm was, and still is, owned by my maternal grandpa. When my mom got married, she brought my dad to the farm, where he began helping my grandpa. They still work hard to manage the farm, and sometimes my siblings and I help move pipe or pick rocks out of the field. They won’t let us drive the tractor yet, but I hope I’ll get the chance one day. The farm purchases a great deal from Valley Wide, especially fuel, fertilizer, and chemicals. Our family benefits greatly from this co-op because it supports the farm. In return, my dad and grandpa help elect Valley Wide’s board members and participate in its structure since the co-op is run, owned, and used by farmers.  

Piper Palmer 

GPA: 3.4 

Ag Focus / Major:
Agricultural Education 

Future Plans:
I want to be able to give back to the FFA program and the community that has helped me to get where I am at today. I want to teach and help youth understand and feel as passionate about agriculture as I am. 

Awards:
In FFA, I have received my greenhand, chapter, and state degrees..
Through 4-H I have received multiple awards and have qualified for the state fair with my horse project. 

Leadership:
I have served and currently serve as a chapter FFA officer all 4 years of High School. I am currently serving as a district FFA office. I am also on the Student council. In 4-H I have served as a teen leader in my various 4-H clubs. 

Essay Question 1:
In your opinion, what do you consider to be the most challenging issue(s) that your country faces as it relates to your home town, community, or way of life? One of the most challenging issues that we face  today is the loss of farm land. We are losing farms at a rapid pace and can’t  keep up with the farms that are still left to supply food to the world. We are having people lose their jobs because these farms are being sold and the owner can’t find them other farms to work at. This impacts my way of life becasue farming is how my family makes money and you never know if someone is going to come and try to take the land or build a house and take the resources needed to support our crops.   

Essay Question 2:
The most influential people in my life are my mom and my aunt. They both push me to be the best that I can and to always try my best in everything that I do. I know that both of them will always be there no matter what I need and I can always count on them. I can go to them and ask for advice on anything and they will help me to make the best decision. They support me in everything I do and always want me to succeed in everything that I do. I can always count on them to be there for the good and the bad things that happen in life. They are always my biggest cheerleaders.   

Essay Question 3:
We  use Valley Wide Cooperative to supply fuel and seed to run our farm. We buy the fuel to keep all of the equipment and service vehicles running so that we can plant and harvest our crops. We then buy seed in the spring to plant our grain so we can feed our cows. We also love going to convenience stores and geting a drink and a snack when we go and pick up parts.   

Kate Barney 

GPA: 3.84 

Ag Focus / Major:
Communication Disorders 

Future Plans:
During high school, I challenged myself by enrolling in dual-credit and Advanced Placement courses. Through this experience, I discovered that I excel in math and science. I completed college-level chemistry, biology, anatomy and physiology, fundamentals of health professions, medical terminology, and other courses that strengthened my desire to pursue a degree in Communication Disorders at BYU. After earning my bachelor’s degree, I plan to continue on to a master’s degree in Speech-Language Pathology..
My desire to pursue this career is deeply personal. My aunt, Janelle Palmer, was a speech-language pathologist. She helped individuals regain their ability to speak after traumatic accidents and worked patiently with young children who struggled with speech. She made a lasting impact on countless lives. After her passing last March, I felt a strong desire to follow her example and make a meaningful difference in the lives of others. 

Awards:
Selected as the North Upper Snake River District Star in Agriplacement for my Supervised Agricultural Experience (SAE) project at Barney Shires and Sage Ridge Farms, where I have demonstrated skills and professionalism in my work with draft horses. I have been recognized in the draft horse world as a young leader and role model..
I have submitted a National FFA Proficiency Award application in Equine Science, reflecting my commitment to excellence and my desire to continually expand my knowledge and experience. This application represents countless hours of hands-on work, detailed record keeping, and genuine passion for equine management and performance..
This last spring I decided to join Rigby FFA’s highly competitive Agricultural Communications career development team. I cooperated and led my team of four to successfully compete at the University of Idaho where we were recognized as the state champions. My team then competed in Indianapolis, Indiana against other state winning teams. There, my team won national gold with 7th place. 

Leadership:
With my horse pulling team, I earned an impressive 3rd place finish at the Calgary Stampede, competing against seasoned and highly experienced draft-horse pullers. I have also won countless awards at horse pulls in the intermountain west as a part of the Utah Horse Pullers Association. This past January I was recognized for my hard work with three prestigious awards: Sportsmanship, Most Improved, and Teamster of the Year. .
I also participated in Tennis the past couple of years and won the Most Improved award in my first year..
One of my favorite things I have done to help my community is to volunteer at the local Ronald McDonald Charity House in Idaho Falls by EIRMC. I cooked many meals, cleaned, decorated for the holidays, and made blankets for the children and their families staying at the hospital..
I have also enjoyed spending time playing games and visiting with residents at Sage Grove Assisted Living on multiple occasions..
I am a member of the National Honor Society, (NHS). 

Essay Question 1:
Whether pulling calves in ice puddles, working draft horses each day, or chasing water in the dead of night, ranching and agriculture have been a major part of my childhood and youth. Although the sacrifices and hardships can take a toll, I have learned to love the rewarding and enriching agricultural lifestyle. Farming is becoming less common, and many misconceptions about it are accepted as truth by a growing majority of Americans. As James Douglas once said, “Agriculture is the backbone of our nation.” I understand the issues farmers face because my family has experienced them firsthand.
Farmers struggle with challenges including water management, debt, falling prices, severe weather, and stress. Independent small farming is often no longer viable alone, and many farmers must rely on additional sources of income. Because of these challenges, it is important that people better understand agriculture and its role in our communities.
Through the Rigby FFA Agricultural Communications team, I helped share agriculture’s story. As the feature story writer, I took a deeper dive into many topics, researched challenges, worked with members of my community, and communicated those stories to others. Competing at the National FFA Convention allowed me to connect with people from across the country and expand my understanding of the industry.
For three years, I have also worked at elementary agriculture education events in the Rigby community, helping younger students understand where their food comes from and why agriculture matters. 

Essay Question 2:
The most influential person in my life has been my aunt Janelle. Growing up, she was always a big part of my life. She came to my birthdays and basketball games and was always willing to take me on an adventure. She cared deeply about our family and the people around her.
Janelle worked as a speech pathologist, and I loved hearing her tell stories about her patients and how much she cared about them. She helped many people regain their ability to speak after traumatic accidents, and she also worked with young children who struggled to pronounce words correctly. Through her work, she made a lasting impact on many lives.
Last March, Janelle passed away suddenly from a spontaneous coronary artery dissection just ten days after delivering her fourth child. Losing her has had a profound impact on my life. It has been incredibly difficult to imagine life without her.
Because of the influence she had on me, I have chosen to pursue a degree in speech-language pathology, just like her. I hope to follow her example by helping others regain confidence in their ability to communicate.
This past year has been a difficult journey, but it has also helped me grow. Janelle’s life showed me how much good one person can do by serving others. Her example continues to inspire me, and I hope to carry on her legacy by making a difference in people’s lives through my work. 

Essay Question 3:
Since I was a little girl, a hard day’s work on the farm was often followed by a stop at the “co-op” in Menan, ID. My grandparents’ farm and draft horse program, Barney Shires, has relied on Valley Wide as a trusted source for locally supplied commodities. My parents own Sage Ridge Farms in nearby Lewisville, where we raise a variety of livestock and crops. Quick trips to the co-op for supplies are a regular part of farm life. Beyond providing essentials, Valley Wide also serves as a community hub where local farmers can gather to share successes, discuss challenges, and support one another. My ancestors, including Wells Barney and Leland Barney also relied on the Menan Cooperative throughout their lives as draft horsemen and farmers. 

Brock Mathew Johnson 

GPA: 4 

Ag Focus / Major:
Marriage and Family Therapy 

Future Plans:
For my future career and major, I want to do something where I can find personal fulfillment by serving others and can make enough to support a future family. 

Awards:
I received various ribbons for fair building entries and horse 4-H, club involvement award, and I was a state horse 4-H Qualifier. 

Leadership:
I have been involved in cross country, track and field, basketball, choir, band, Business Professionals of America, National Honor Society, drama, student council, priests quorum first assistant, stake youth committee co-president. 

Essay Question 1:
I believe that the most challenging issue facing our country is a lack of unity. This issue affects our country on a na onal scale to state to community and even to families. Disagreements, in many ways, are what makes our country great when people can talk through issues and come up with a solu on that helps everyone. This idea of compromise was one of the ideals America was founded on. But that principle seems to be ge ng more and more lost for everyone. Many people find that it is more important to be right than to remember the humanity of others and treat them accordingly. Disagreements on issues ranging from poli cal, religious, and other issues will con nue to drive us apart unless we can learn to respec ully have different opinions.  

Essay Question 2:
My parents and grandpa have been the most influential people in my life. My dad and grandpa have shown me how to work and prepare for anything. Farming is not easy work as it requires long hours of physical and mental labor and there is so much that cannot be controlled. My dad and grandpa both will never shy away from doing what needs to be done and do as much as they can to prepare for whatever can and will go wrong. Even during the winter, which is the least busy time of the year for most farmers, my dad and grandpa work hard to keep the farm running as smoothly as possible. They take nearly every piece of equipment we own into our shop to do maintenance and make sure it is ready to be used in the spring, summer, or fall. Working and learning alongside them has been the most valuable experience of my life. My mom is one of the most compassionate people I know. She is an amazing example of how to look outside of yourself and see others and their needs. My parents are grandpa have been the most important influences in my life because they have taught me how to work, prepare for the future, and look outside of myself.  

Essay Question 3:
My family has been involved with Valley Wide Cooperative in many ways for many years. When they previously had a branch in Grace, we exclusively bought fertilizer and chemical products among other things from them. Since the Grace branch closed it has been harder to do business with them, but we still buy propane and diesel in bulk. 

Molly Burgess 

GPA: 3.663 

Ag Focus / Major:
Agri-Business 

Future Plans:
I am going to attend BYU-Idaho, go into Agri-Business, take some Animal Nutrition classes, and after college work in a management position in an agriculture company. 

Awards:
In 2018, I won Reserve Champion Showmanship and have done well ever since then. .
FFA: .
Ag Sales: 2nd as a team, 1st individually at districts. .
Conduct of Chapter Meetings-8th in state.
Ag Marketing- 5th in State.
Idaho State Degree.
Diversified Ag Profiency- top 10 in the nation 

Leadership:
Served on Rigby Middle FFA officer team for 2 years- Farnsworth Representative and Secretary.
Have been serving on the Rigby FFA officer team for 3 years- Career Success Chairman, Growing Leaders Vice President, and currently Student Advisor. 

Essay Question 1:
One of the most challenging issues that is arising in Eastern Idaho is water. Water is the way of life for so many farms and ranchers, just like it is for my family. There are many legal battles going on about water, since Eastern Idaho doesn’t have senior water rights. My family has been struggling with our water because we are at the end of the canal, so we just get what’s left over, which hasn’t been much these past two years. Eastern Idaho has been struggling to maintain sufficient water storage, so farmers’ livelihoods aren’t at stake. However, we have a great senator and wonderful representatives from this area who will be helping us this year while they are in their legislative session.  

Essay Question 2:
The most influential person in my life has been my grandpa, Eric Beck. He taught me the value of hard work and that it pays off. He would pick me up most mornings to go feed cows. Either before or after feeding, my grandpa would go to the old Menan Co-Op for breakfast, and that was my payment for feeding the cows. My grandpa taught many valuable lessons. He was always very friendly. When we went to the Menan Co-Op, we would stay for a while because my grandpa was very talkative. However, my grandpa being talkative, it taught me the value of relationships, and it brought me out of my shell. I was able to make relationships from a young age with a couple of people my grandpa was friends with.  

Essay Question 3:
My grandpa, Eric Beck, was on the Board of Directors for around 10 years. My grandpa was the Chairman of the Board for the Menan Co-Op when they found and hired Dave Holtam. 
I work at Valley Wide in Menan; I have worked here for a year and a half. 
My Uncle Cortney Beck is the agronomy plant manager for Rexburg Valley Ag.  

Eden Meridith Kreger 

GPA: 3.941 

Ag Focus / Major:
Pre-Law 

Future Plans:
My goal is to first become a Lawyer, then work my way up the political ladder to reach my dream of becoming a Senator so that I can truly advocate for the policies and changes that will make life better for all Americans. 

Awards:
2024: District Floriculture Champion and State Qualifier.
2024-2025: served as Chapter Reporter.
2024: Eastern Idaho State Fair FFA Floral Design Champion.
2024: FFA Greenhand Degree.
2025: District Extemporaneous Speaking Champion and State Qualifier.
2025: FFA Chapter Degree.
2025-2026: serving as Chapter Treasurer.
2025: Eastern Idaho State Fair FFA Floral Design Champion.
2025-2026: serving as District Reporter 

Leadership:
2022-2023: Church Youth Group President.
2023-2024: National Honors Society President.
2024-2025: Student Council Junior Class Senator.
2024-2025: Floral Design Team Captain.
2024: Initiated Clip Kindness- a school-wide kindness campaign.
2024-2026: Worked as a Potato Tissue and Soil Sampler for Valley Ag.
2024-2025: Worked as a Sales Associate and Social Media Specialist for Tilden Co..
2025: Participated in the Distinguished Young Women (DYW) Program.
2025: Delegate at ALA Idaho Syringa Girls State.
2025: Please Just Stay- Suicide Prevention Program.
2025: Red Ribbon Week- Drug Awareness Initiative.
2025: Catch My Breath- Peer led anti-vaping education.
2025-2026: National Honors Society .
President.
2025-2026: Student Council Senior Class President.
2024-2026: ROY Week- Reach Outside Yourself Kindness Project.
2025-2026: Miss Idaho agHERculture.
2026: BPA Regional Prepared Public Speaking Champion and State Qualifier.
2024-2026: School Events Coordinator .
2024-2026: Drive55- Raised funds to provide Christmas dinner and presents to 55 families in my school district.
2024-2026: School Social Media Specialist.
2022-2026: State Champion Baker.
2022-2026: Drama Club.
2025-2026: Art Club.
2025-2026: Actress in The Little Mermaid Spring Musical.
2022-2026: All Star Competitive Cheerleading.
2025-2026: Cheer Team Captain.
2025-2026: Assistant Cheer Coach for Downtown Dance Studio 

Essay Question 1:
Do you want to be right, or do you want to be happy? This is a question I think we all need to ask ourselves more often. As division in our country continues to grow, we often mistake extremism for unity. It feels powerful to stand firmly with “our side,” but in reality, this me vs. you mentality only fractures us further. History has warned us about this before. The famous “Join, or Die” cartoon urged the colonies to unite for survival. Later, Abraham Lincoln reminded us that “a house divided against itself cannot stand.” Again and again, progress requires people to set aside their pride in order to move forward together. In communities like mine, unity is essential. Agriculture, local businesses, and small towns depend on cooperation and trust. A community cannot thrive when neighbors see each other as opponents instead of partners. Disagreements are inevitable, but hostility is a choice. The real challenge is to choose humility over stubbornness, and collaboration over conflict. If we allow pride and extreme opposition to overpower our shared responsibility to one another, we weaken the very foundation of our communities. The question remains, will we cling to being right, or will we choose to find happiness in unity?  

Essay Question 2:
The most influential people in my life have been the advisors and peers I met through FFA. Their impact came through two very different experiences. When I first joined FFA, I was so excited to immerse myself in agriculture and contribute to a community that shared my passion! Instead, I faced exclusion from members and little encouragement from advisors. Because I did not come from a traditional agricultural background, my differences felt amplified. That experience hurt, but it taught me how easily someone can feel unimportant and how much inclusivity matters. After transferring schools, I joined a new FFA chapter and experienced something entirely different. My advisors welcomed me warmly and encouraged me to run for office. My peers entrusted me with responsibility and treated me as though I belonged from the start. Their confidence reshaped my own, and helped me recognize my strengths that I had started to doubt. Experiencing both environments showed me the true power of community. The first taught me the cost of exclusion; the second showed me what intentional inclusion looks like. Together, those people shaped the leader I am becoming; someone who notices who is standing alone, and chooses to reach out first.  

Essay Question 3:
My grandpa is Gary Farmer and my uncle is Cole Farmer. They are both very accomplished agronomists, and have devoted much of their careers to Valley Ag. My grandpa, Gary Farmer, has worked as a senior agronomist for 8 years, and during his time he earned the rank of a Top Gun Elite Salesmen every year. Overall, he has worked as a crop advisor for over 46 years, and is a member of the Certified Crop Advisors Hall of Fame. Additionally, I worked for Valley Ag with Gary Farmer as a Potato Tissue and Soil Sampler for the past two years. It’s been very fulfilling for me to have the opportunity to work alongside my grandpa and learn how much work goes into producing quality crops 

Dax Mitchel Blaser 

GPA: 4 

Ag Focus / Major:
Business/Agricultural Business 

Future Plans:
I have 2 uncles that have always inspired me to go into the field of business, but growing up on farm also leans me towards agricultural degree. So my future goal is to have a job that I can provide for my family well. I also want to have time to spend with my family and still go and do fun things. So I think that going into this major and going into this field will allow me to have free time with my family while also being able to provide for my family freely and easily. I will consider money, schooling, growth and demand of that field, and most definitely if I love it. You know what they say, you can’t work a job every single day that you don’t love. 

Leadership:
I play Football and Tennis where I have won 2 football state championships and also a 3rd place as well as qualifying for state in tennis my junior year. I am a member of student council at my school. We plan assemblies, spirit weeks, and games. We planned a service day this year. Where each class had a specific service activity they had to complete. Ex: cleaning the roads, repainting lines at elementary, relandscaping around the school, raking under the football bleachers, etc… I also got the opportunity to do operation merry Christmas at my school. It is where we raise money in our community and then go buy presents for families in our community that can’t afford Christmas, this year we helped raise the most money we ever have at a whopping $32,000. It was an amazing experience to see the families so grateful for help and support we gave them. I am also a leader in my in my youth group, where I help plan activities and help get people to participate. I also got chosen as a junior to be a part of DYW as an escort. It was an awesome experience, that I will remember forever. It was an honor to be 1/4 guys in my grade to be chosen by the girls in our grade, as people the trusted and wanted to be their escorts. 

Essay Question 1:
One of the biggest challenges our country faces right now is how hard it is for farmers to stay afloat. In Rexburg, farming is a huge part of our community. When potato prices were really low this year, a lot of farmers barely made any money. Some even lost money after paying for fuel, fertilizer, and equipment. When farmers struggle, our whole town feels it. Most people here are connected to agriculture in some way. When crops don’t pay well, families cut back on spending, local businesses slow down, and stress runs high. It’s frustrating because farmers work incredibly hard, but prices are controlled by markets far beyond our town. Seeing this has helped me understand how important agriculture is and how much small communities depend on fair prices and stability to survive.  

Essay Question 2:
The most influential person in my life is my dad. He’s a farmer, and he is the hardest worker I know. He wakes up early, works long days, and never complains. He truly loves what he does. One thing that stands out to me is how he treats people. He has sold hay for lower prices just to help someone out. He cares more about being fair than making extra money. He has taught me to work hard, stay humble, and treat people with kindness. My siblings have also influenced me a lot. They have all served missions for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, and they set such strong examples for me. They’ve shown me what dedication, faith, and service look like. Because of them, I want to be better and work harder in everything I do.  

Essay Question 3:
My family has been involved with Valley Wide Cooperative for as long as I can remember in Rexburg. My dad has had a contract with the local branch my whole life. We provide straw year-round to our local Valley Wide store and that’s been a small but steady income for our farm. I remember going into the old store before it was remodeled after we unloaded hay. My dad would let me grab a beef jerky and a drink before we left. Those are small memories, but they mean a lot to me. We’ve always had an account there. We get fuel, fertilizer from Valley Ag, and supplies from the Country Store. My family has been members since it became Valley Wide, and even back when it was the Rexburg Co-op. It’s more than just a store to us — it’s part of our life. 

Brylee Bartschi 

GPA: 3.8 

Ag Focus / Major:
Nursing 

Future Plans:
Growing up as a little farm girl dealing with animals, life, and death, I quickly realized I wanted to help make other people’s lives better. I want to pursue a career in nursing. Throughout my life I have always had such a different way of looking at life and what a beating heart really means. It is such a privilege to be alive and able to live healthily, so I want to help people that aren’t so fortunate to live in good health. Factors that I will consider when choosing my major are, but not limited to: How much will I enjoy that career? Is that something I want to do for the rest of my life? Will I feel useful with that major? 

Awards:
Green hand Degree. Every year I volunteer for the FFA/ Simplot 5th grade Safety Day 

Leadership:
Trap Club: Participated in the club once weekly every spring and fall season for 4 high school years, helped organize and illustrate many articles in the local newspaper.
Bear Lake High School Service-a-Thon: participated in doing local service projects once every fall for 4 years.
Built a sign for the elementary school I went to: I organized, fabricated, and put in a sign at the Georgetown Elementary School.
FFA: I have been active in the FFA for my entire high school career .
Ranch Work: I have help on local ranches for relatives and non relatives my whole life for service 

Essay Question 1:
The most challenging thing that I believe that my country faces is the way everyone is so divided politically. Everyone throughout our country faces different political stances and as time goes on I am starting to see our country is becoming more and more divided by this issue. Even throughout my community there are different beliefs that separate the town. I grew up on a ranch so I know what it is like for people to look down on the ranching community because they feel like we are less than. I feel the opposite, I think that ranchers are the backbone of our country and without ranching our country would not be a thing. As many people know, politics have weaved their way into everything about our country. I hope that one day we can all realize we are part of the same community and that politics should not influence our everyday lives nearly as much as it does 

Essay Question 2:
My dad is by far the person in my life who has had the most influence on me. Throughout my schooling career I have always tried my hardest. Whenever I was having a hard time, whether that be school, or life in general, my dad would always remind me that, “Anything worth doing is worth doing right.” I have lived by that quote since the first time I heard it. I have always had a love for being outdoors as much as physically possible, even if that meant having to help my dad do all the chores. With being around him all the time and being outside, I learned what hard work really is. If you want to have the best result, it’s going to take hard work, sweat, and many (more than I’d like) tears. I’ve watched my dad work for his dreams with sickness, nobody to be there to help him, and heartbreak, but one thing about it, he never gave up. Rain, snow, or shine my dad has always shown up and showed out. He showed me what it means to work hard for what you want.  

Essay Question 3:
My grandparents have been part of the Valley Wide Cooperative since 1990. All the fuel, gas, diesel, and lubricants for the Bartschi Ranches has been purchased through Valley Wide since then.  

Bryce Jensen 

GPA: 3.79 

Ag Focus / Major:
Business Management Marketing 

Future Plans:
I plan to own a trade business. Having a thorough understanding of how to manage a business and market it is imperative for running a successful business. 

Awards:
No 

Leadership:
I was a team captain for two years in wrestling and one year in cross country. In my church, I was the deacon’s quorum president and first assistant in the priest’s quorum. Helped run and participated in a wood cutting and stacking activity for the elderly in our community. Participated in several highway cleanups and community park cleanups. For the last six years, I have helped clean up grave decorations at our cemetery after Memorial Day. 

Essay Question 1:
Growing up in Ashton, Idaho, I’ve seen how the rising cost of living affects us. Ashton is a small town, and since the pandemic, a greater number of people have been moving here. This has significantly increased our housing prices. For many people, it’s now almost impossible to buy a house because of the cost increase, making it difficult for young adults to move back to Ashton once they finish their schooling. Having been involved in agriculture and my community, I can see how important small towns are to people who live in them. I hope future generations will still have the opportunity to be raised in places like Ashton, where hard work is valued, and people know and care about one another. The rising cost of living could prevent many people from doing so, as apartment living is much cheaper and more easily accessible in bigger cities. I think it’s important to make housing affordable for people and families, so they can  build their lives in a place where people rally around one another.   

Essay Question 2:
The most influential people in my life have been my parents. My dad works very hard on our farm to help give others and his family what they need. He has given money and goods to people who are struggling in life, even if we don’t know them very well, which has inspired me to want to do the same. Through his example, I have learned to work hard on the farm without complaining, and when I get asked to do something, I do it right away.  My mom grew up in difficult circumstances, knowing the feeling of going to bed hungry. She learned to be grateful for all she had, and to help others in need. She has raised my brothers and sister and I to serve others. When I was about ten years old, I remember my mom telling us that we were going to paint someone’s shed. I wasn’t very happy because I didn’t know this person and couldn’t  understand why we had to take the time to go serve them. When we started painting, I was told the owner was an elderly lady who couldn’t paint the shed herself, and it needed to be painted or the elements would ruin it. I felt guilty for complaining about helping her, but through that experience, I learned we may not always know what a person is  going through. From that experience, I will always take the opportunity to help others around me.  

Essay Question 3:
Our family farm, Reynolds Farms, has been using Valley Wide fertilizer and chemicals for all of our wheat, barley, Alfalfa, canola, and potato crops for the last five+ years. We also buy all our baling twine from Valley Wide. Our field rep is Bryan Miller.  

Peyton Synove Lenz 

GPA: 4 

Ag Focus / Major:
Radiologic Technology 

Future Plans:
I will enroll in a radiographic science program with the goal of becoming a radiologic technologist and specialize in MRI. My mom is a registered nurse in our town’s medical clinic. She is caring and kind while supporting her patients physical as well as mental well-being. My dad is a high school teacher and basketball coach. He prepares young students to become responsible citizens by instilling discipline, hard work, teamwork, leadership, and integrity. I want to be just like my parents who are committed to making a difference in other people’s lives. I have already taken multiple classes to prepare for my career such as anatomy, chemistry, and dual credit medical terminology, psychology, and currently sociology. By taking these classes, I have felt reassured about going into healthcare. I am interested in a health science related field because I want to play a role in helping people receive the best care possible.  I had the opportunity to shadow radiologic technologists at Madison Memorial Hospital, where I observed chest and knee X-ray procedures and watched CT scans being performed. I really enjoyed my experience because I got to witness what they do on a daily basis, and it reinforced my desire to go into this career. .
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Martin Luther King Jr. once said, “Life’s most persistent and urgent question is, ‘What are you doing for others?” When people commit to serving others, their community strengthens and thrives. Being a radiologic technologist will benefit my rural community because I will be available to help individuals in crisis and support their recovery. Several people I know including myself have had concussions and had to take the extra time to drive 30 miles to get to the closest hospital. I can help reduce long term health problems and provide care to those who may struggle with access to it. 

Awards:
In the fall of 2025, I was employed during our Spud Harvest break. I worked long hours sorting and loading potatoes. I learned teamwork, efficiency, and responsibility under pressure. 

Leadership:
I have shown leadership in multiple ways inside and outside of school. I have played important roles in sports by being pitcher in softball, point guard in basketball, and middle blocker in volleyball. All of these roles have taught me teamwork, discipline, hard work, commitment, encouragement, decision-making and so much more. I led my team to 3rd place at state in softball and 2nd place in basketball. I have had to step up during pressure moments. I learned how to be a team leader by taking on these roles..
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Academically I have a 4.0 GPA, which shows I am determined to be my best. Being responsible and working hard in the classroom demonstrates I am willing to learn new things and have a growth mindset..
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One way I have contributed to the community is by being able to pass on my sports knowledge and skills to younger girls. For example, in softball I have given them tips and strategies to become stronger and more accurate pitchers. I encourage them to not get stuck on the last pitch and focus on the next one. I assisted my mom with the middle school girls’ basketball team. I planned practices, recommended drills that would be beneficial. I gave advice and inspiration to girls who were struggling..
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I have also been involved in the Honor Society as Treasurer, and I volunteered for a program called Buy a Book Read a Book with the elementary students. The kids picked out their favorite book, and I read it to them. I then signed the book so that they remember who I am. It was a rewarding experience because I can be a role model to look up to..
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Overall, my experiences in athletics, academics, and service have shaped me into a dedicated and compassionate leader. I believe hard work is a blessing, not a burden, and I strive to model that mindset in everything I do. 

Essay Question 1:
The extremism of both political parties makes it challenging for our country and our community. It is harder to find out what the truth is. Both parties believe the ends justify the means. It is creating a culture where it is hard for people to work together. The information we receive is skewed one way or another making it difficult to make informed decisions.  An example of this is immigration. Each party when they have had the opportunity has not introduced common sense immigration policy. Our community would benefit from this policy. Open borders or closed borders is not a good idea. Our farming community relies on immigrant workers. Unfortunately, it is a long process for people who want to become citizens. This has caused people to put their lives and their families’ lives at risk to come here illegally to have a better way of life. It has also caused strain on our social safety net. A common sense policy would incentivize immigrants who are coming here with good intentions. Incentivizing doing it the right way would make it so we would get more immigrants with good intentions and not be such a strain on our social safety net.  

Essay Question 2:
The most influential people in my life have undoubtedly been my parents, Ben and Kristin Lenz. They have raised me to be kind, hard-working, and resilient. My dad grew up in Squirrel, Idaho. He lived and worked on a farm all through his childhood. From working on the farm, he developed many qualities important in life that he passed on to me. There would be long days on the farm but he would work hard to get the job done. During high school, I had the opportunity to play basketball and be coached by him. There were countless hard practices, we would run until we were puking, but he taught us to push ourselves and keep going.  He has influenced me to work hard and push past obstacles. My mom works as a registered nurse and was the one who inspired me to work in the medical field and follow in her footsteps. She always puts others’ needs before her own and doesn’t give up when things get hard. I am beyond grateful for their positive influence on my life.  

Essay Question 3:
My grandpa, Eddie Lenz, is a farmer and a stockholder for Valley Wide Cooperative. He buys many products from Valley Wide, such as fertilizers, fuel, insecticides, herbicides, and lime spreading. My grandpa is grateful for all the services that Valley Wide provides for him. Also, my parents buy fuel oil for our furnace, they are very appreciative of the fast and dependable service they have received from Valley Wide. The community benefits greatly from Valley Wide Co-op, they have donated meals to the football team and offer scholarships that help students make college more affordable. Thank you for all that you have done for not just my family, but also the community.   

Andrew Martin 

GPA: 3.88 

Ag Focus / Major:
Accounting 

Future Plans:
My future goal is to become a pilot and that could be a crop duster or to be a commercial pilot. I plan on going to college to get a degree because if things don’t work out for flying then I still have something to fall back on. If I do not become a pilot then I would use my accounting degree to become an accountant and use my knowledge to help out family members, friends, and clients to help do their taxes for them and other work they need. 

Awards:
No 

Leadership:
I have been a part of the football, wrestling, track, and golf team. I have been a captain on all of these teams. I am a part of my school’s honor society. I have volunteered to help out at the elementary and during middle school sports to officiate. One of the project that we are working on in honor society is making tie blankets to give back to the homeless shelter. 

Essay Question 1:
I think the most challenging issue that my country faces is how dependent we are with other countries and that when we have conflicts with other countries then our prices on things sky rocket. Another issue that our country has is the lack of work ethic. People want to have all these things without putting the work in for it. This relates to my community because we are smaller so the price of gas and other products are more likely to cost more from where we are at. Also people from my community want to go and do these amazing things but a lot of them aren’t paying attention in class or don’t think it matters now because they already think everything is set in stone. I think that if people had better work ethic then my community and other communities in the world would be more advanced and have more options within their community which would help with the smaller communities like myself.  

Essay Question 2:
My mom and her parents were a major influence on me as she was a single mom for most of my life. They have taught me how to be a respectful and thoughtful young man. I have always respected my mom and grandparents because they always put a lot of effort into what they do. I think my grandpa is a super smart man so whenever he has something to say I always tend to listen. I have learned many lessons from them that I will use for the rest of my life and also pass those lessons on to my peers and future family members. My step dad has also influenced me to be a great man and what it means to be a husband. I have also learned from him that there is only one way to learn and that is to do it so I shouldn’t try to weasel my way out of things that I am gonna need to learn anyways.  

Essay Question 3:
My family’s involvement within ValleyWide Cooperative is that my mom almost always gets fuel from them when heading to mud lake for work. We also always stop and get something from them while going to work, which is at least twice a week. My mom buys our milk replacer for our calf there and also buys all our other cattle needs.  

London Marsden 

GPA: 3.933 

Ag Focus / Major:
Cosmetology 

Future Plans:
My decision to attend Paul Mitchell Schools connects directly to my future goals of building a career in the beauty industry. I want to become a skilled cosmetologist who helps people feel confident. Over time, I hope to build a loyal client base and continue growing in the industry. I dream of being able to fulfill both my dreams of being a Mom and wife and a cosmetologist..
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When choosing a major, I considered what I am passionate about, the opportunity to be creative, and the ability to build a stable career that aligns with my want of having a family. Cosmetology stood out because it allows me to work with people, develop my skills, and turn something I truly enjoy into a profession. 

Leadership:
4 year varsity softball, 3 years varsity volleyball, 3 years varsity boys basketball stats, 2 years varsity football stats, 6 academic state championships, 3 years on the student council including currently the student body president, 2 years on honor society which provided me the opportunities to participate in the “buy a book, read a book” program and volunteer my time at our local “spirit of Christmas” celebration, multiple leadership positions in our youth group in our local church congregation which provided me with opportunities to participate in road side clean up and service projects for the elderly and the humane society. .
My time as the student body president has given me the opportunities to plan and execute multiple school dances, one which included heading up a multiple school dance for 3 schools in south east Idaho. My responsibilities have also included planning and executing homecoming week and all of its festivities not only for the high school but our entire community. I am responsible for our local March Madness tournament and planning and executing our “Mental Health Awareness” month working closely with a local family who experienced the loss of their son to suicide. We help raise money to donate to a scholarship fund bringing awareness to mental health. 

Essay Question 1:
With orange hair, green eyes, and a love of work that most teenagers don’t share, I’ve always stood out in my community. Many of my peers haven’t had a job, but I’ve loved working for as long as I can remember. I grew up picking rocks for my dad on our family farm. Looking back, my help wasn’t always necessary until I could actually lift a rock heavier than a feather, but my dad patiently included me, teaching me the value of hard work—a quality I feel is often missing among teenagers in our town. Once I was old enough to get a “real job,” I worked at a local soda and ice cream shop. The pay wasn’t great, but I learned that you have to start at the bottom to work your way up. Since then, I have cleaned cabins, waitressed, and spent many years sorting potatoes during harvest breaks from school. Now I run my own profitable business doing nails and eyebrows, balancing school, extracurriculars, and clients. Working from a young age has taught me lessons that benefit both my future self and my community. I hope that by setting an example, I can inspire other young people to appreciate hard work and ambition. I am grateful for the patience my dad showed in teaching me these lessons, and for being one of the rare teenagers in our town who truly loves to work.  

Essay Question 2:
Who were/are the most influential people in your life and in what way did they influence you? The people who quietly keep everything together are often the ones who shape your life the most—and for me, that’s my mom. She has raised five kids while supporting my dad, who works long, unpredictable hours on our farm. Farming doesn’t have a 8-to-5 schedule—my dad works late into the night and starts before dawn the next morning. While my dad keeps the farm running, my mom keeps our family running. She makes sure my dad and his employees have warm meals during harvest, runs endless “parts runs,” fills his iconic red cooler every morning, and still manages all five of us kids. She makes sure we have clean jerseys for games, balanced meals before big tests, hot breakfasts every morning, and a clean made bed to climb into at the end of every day. Somehow she always knows when something is off, even before I can say it. I don’t know when my mom sleeps—she stays up after us to put the kitchen and house to bed and wakes early to get lunches packed for the next day. She may not get recognition from any big company, but to me, she is incredible. She has taught me the value of patience, hard work, and loving people quietly but fully. My hero is the silent supporter at home, and I hope I can be even a fraction of the woman she is.  

Essay Question 3:
Please describe your parents, grandparents, or your family’s involvement in Valley Wide Cooperative. My dad is a fourth-generation farmer in Fremont County, Idaho, and a fourth-generation customer of Valley Wide Cooperative. When I was younger, Valley Wide was just a gas station where my dad would take my siblings and me for a treat and a drink after a long, hot, dirty day of rock picking in the fields. As I got older, it also became the place where my dad took me to buy my first pair of pipe-moving boots. As I have grown older and maybe a little more mature, I’ve realized that Valley Wide is much more than a place for a treat after a long day of work. My dad relies on Valley Wide for fuel, fertilizer, oils, and lime application. Their support helps keep our farm running. Because of Valley Wide, my dad has been able to continue our family’s fourth-generation farm, producing high-quality grain and hay. Through farming, he has provided a comfortable life for our family and, more importantly, taught us the value of hard work. Looking back, those trips to Valley Wide after long days in the field were about more than just a treat—they were small moments that showed me how farming, family, and community all work together.  

Caleb Alan Fransen 

GPA: 3.423 

Ag Focus / Major:
Business/Finance 

Future Plans:
When I am older, my goal is to start my own business and grow it into something that lasts longer than I will. That is why I am interested in majoring in business or finance. Learning from professors and people who have already built successful companies is one of the best ways to prepare myself for that goal. Those degrees would give me the foundation I need to understand how businesses operate, manage money, and make smart financial decisions..
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Before choosing a major, I will focus on what will teach me the most about building and running a business. I want something that gives me real knowledge I can apply in the future, not just a degree. My goal is to leave college prepared to start something of my own and run it the right way. 

Awards:
No. 

Leadership:
During high school I’ve been involved in a few different leadership, athletic, and service activities. I currently serve as the Senior Vice President in Student Council, where I’ve organized our school’s Homecoming Dance (Food, Decorations, Prices) and dj’d for the dance. I also spoke at our Veterans Day Assembly to honor local veterans..
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Athletics have also been a big part of my life. I’ve competed in football, wrestling, basketball, and track throughout middle school and high school. In wrestling I placed 3rd, 2nd, and 1st at middle school districts, later placing 2nd and 1st at high school districts and qualifying for the state championships twice. .
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Service has also been important to me. Through youth group activities with my church, I’ve helped cut and stack firewood for elderly members of the community, shovel snow off roofs and driveways, and help families move when they needed extra hands. I’ve also volunteered helping coach younger kids at a basketball camp, which was a fun to encourage them and help them improve as small as they were. At school I also occasionally help photograph sporting events for the yearbook. 

Essay Question 1:
In my opinion screens are the most challenging and rising issue this country has. In my community I see so much time wasted away because of screens, wether thats social media, the news, video games, or movies. The gap of economic inequality is growing quickly, the rich get richer and the poor get poorer. A main reason this happens is because of screens. Specifically our cell phones. They can help us get rich, but, more then often they do the opposite. We sit on our phones, scrolling through unimportant reels that have gotten so wasteful and useless that they have gotten the name “brain rot”. This “brain rot” has taken millions of opportunities to learn and grow, every minute wasted on a screen takes away precious time that people are willing to let go of. The even worse part is that through social media, spread globally, the social life of teens, adults, and even now children, is being affected by influencers. Everyone sees how amazing life can be, our money and bodies being the top thing being affected. Its not only wasting our time, but lowering our self confidence and motivation in ourselves, and honestly teaching us to be more judgemental to others through all the hate thats spread through social media. 
In conclusion although social media was my main point, it comes from a screen. Unless this and the next generation learn to be disciplined enough to put the phone down and not let it control their life, we might be in trouble. 

Essay Question 2:
Although there have been a lot of very influential people in my life, one of my closest friends has had the biggest impact on me.
I wasn’t in a good place about a year ago. I made bad decisions that got me in trouble, said things that damaged relationships, and had almost no self-control or discipline to break bad habits. I knew I was falling into a hole, and it felt like I could never really change even though I hated the way I was acting.
When I moved to North Fremont in 6th grade, this friend was someone I immediately looked up to. He was kind, calm, and disciplined, and he had a lot of the habits that I wish I had. For years I wanted to be more like him, but I never actually changed anything about my own behavior.
That changed when we both went through a rough breakup in high school. We realized that one of the reasons things fell apart was a bad habit we both struggled with. Once we were honest about that, we started talking more about how we could actually change instead of just complaining about our problems.
Eventually we decided to start holding each other accountable. We pushed each other to build better habits, stay disciplined, and have more self-respect. We set goals and checked in with each other when things got hard or when one of us started slipping.
Looking back, I never thought I would change as much as I have in the last year. We have both grown a lot, and without having a friend willing to be honest with me and push me to improve, I probably would still be stuck in the same place I was before. 

Essay Question 3:
My grandpa is a member of the Valley Wide Co-op and has purchased fertilizer, hay, and seed from them over the years. He also works with their field man and asks for advice when making decisions about the farm. Having that relationship has helped him manage his farm and make better decisions about crops and his supplies. 

Zachary Joseph Sanguinetti 

GPA: 4.17 

Ag Focus / Major:
Engineering 

Future Plans:
My future goals are to learn more about the Aerospace industry and focus my studies in this field. I am particularly interested in drones and manned devices that need piloting. I would like to give back to the agricultural community since my family has had three generations who have farmed in our community. I would be the fourth but I am exploring other options and will shift the family farm to farming that I will do on the side once I graduate from college. I have a passion for tinkering and am particularly interested in the engineering field from the design aspect. I like to come up with new ideas and apply those ideas to different projects. 

Awards:
I have participated in both 4-H and FFA. I taught a drone class to my former 4-H club. I am currently the Vice President of my FFA chapter at St. Mary’s High School. I have received the Greenhand Degree and Chapter Degree as well as qualified for my FFA stole for graduation. We recently just finished FFA week where we ran activities and organized a teacher appreciation lunch for all of the teachers at St. Mary’s High School. I have participated in numerous activities with two of my favorite being the job interviews and attending the California State Conference. I lead our chapter FFA meetings along with our President and help our Ag teacher with numerous activities for FFA. 

Leadership:
I have many leadership roles, volunteer activities and extracurricular activities in which I am involved with at school or in my community. I am on the St. Mary’s High School core team for my Campus Ministry group as well as a leader for our Link Crew where we mentor freshman students to make sure they acclimate to high school. I am an altar server at my Church and enjoy giving back to my community where I went to elementary school. I have been a team captain for my cross country team and sporting clays, skeet, and trap shooting team. I enjoyed every year of high school and have made friends for life. I have volunteered for Rotary Read In, Annunciation School, served at crab feeds, volunteered in classrooms, etc. My community service outreach is something that I have enjoyed throughout high school and look forward to continuing that in college. 

Essay Question 1:
Our country has many challenging issues at the moment. My biggest focus is on the farming community in my state of California. There are several issues that are impacting farming but the  biggest issue that my community faces is water issues. We have been f ighting the Delta tunnels and it has made National news. I live in the San Joaquin Valley in Northern California but Southern California is fighting to install tunnels in the Delta where we farm. This would allow the salt from the sea to leach inward and it would impact the groundwater. The tunnels would also kill off the ecosystem as well as my crops due to having too much salt in the water. This would not only impact my crops but the value of our land. Our state needs to install more storage facilities for water so we can collect it naturally rather than pump water from one end of the state to the other. The saying we are borrowing from Peter to pay Paul is in effect. The tunnels will create further problems for our state and hurt farmers.  

Essay Question 2:
I am sure every student answers their family to this question but I would not be where I am today without the support of my family. I have worked tremendously hard to succeed in school. I have a learning disability (dyslexic and dysgraphic) and my parents never gave up on me. They sat up with me at night to help me as well as provided me extra tutoring to help build my skills to support the way I learn. I was taught to never be ashamed of who you are and that hard work trumps talent. I was given the skills I needed to be resilient and internally I have the grit I need to succeed. School isn’t always easy but I have persevered through many challenges and I look forward to the next steps in my education. I know everyone is not as lucky as I am but I truly am thankful for the bond I have with my family. They are the most influential people in my life and they encouraged me to build relationships with my teachers so I can build a community of strength to tap into when I am in need of extra help.  

Essay Question 3:
My great grandfathers on my father’s side were farmers, my grandfather is a farmer, my father is a farmer and now my family looks to me to carry on the family business. Valley Wide Cooperative is a part of my family and is a valued member of the greater Stockton, California area. They merged with Stanislaus Farm Supply and they help all farmers in our community negotiate better pricing. They have supported my FFA club and other agriculture activities in our local community. My Father purchases chemicals and fertilizer from Valley Wide Cooperative. His farm operates under Triple Sanguinetti Farms. My grandfather is a member of Valley Wide Cooperative and his farm operates under the name Sanguinetti Ranch. He purchases items through the coop. My uncle is also a member of Valley Wide Cooperative (David Sanguinetti). We belong to this coop so we have better bargaining power and can get better pricing for our supplies which helps make our farm more profitable. The farming industry has been hit hard with regulations, increasing costs, and less profit for our crops. Every little bit helps us stay afloat and I am appreciative to Valley Wide Cooperative for helping the agricultural community.  

Cash R. Absher 

GPA: 3.7 

Ag Focus / Major:
Agricultural Business 

Future Plans:
Growing up in California agriculture has shaped the way I work, the way I think, and the future I want to build. Choosing to major in Agricultural Business allows me to take the values and hands‑on experience I gained from my family’s cattle operation, hay and orchard farming, and pair them with the business knowledge needed to run a successful agricultural enterprise. My goal is to return to the industry as a leader who can strengthen and expand my family’s operation while contributing to the long term sustainability of California agriculture. When choosing a major, I considered how closely it aligned with my background, how well it would prepare me for real world responsibilities in production agriculture, and whether it would give me practical skills in finance, management, marketing, and agricultural policy. Agricultural Business meets all of these needs and supports my commitment to building a future in agriculture. 

Awards:
I earned my Greenhand Award in FFA. 

Leadership:
I have been involved in FFA, agriculture engineering, welding, and baseball throughout my high school career. Each has shaped my work ethic and personal growth in different ways. Through FFA, I learned the importance of community involvement. My Ag engineering and welding courses allowed me to develop skills in welding and fabrication, attention to detail, and problem solving while completing practical projects both at school and on the farm. As a member of the baseball team, I continued to learn discipline, perseverance, and how to work effectively within a team. Together, these activities have helped me to continue to build a strong foundation of leadership, craftsmanship, and dedication that I will carry into my future goals.
I am involved in my community through several service oriented activities, including participating in Operation Santa with our local volunteer fire department, where I help spread cheer to local families during the Christmas season. I also assist my younger brother in running our start-up apiary’s honey booth at festivals, engaging with visitors and promoting awareness about pollinators. 

Essay Question 1:
In your opinion, what do you consider to be the most challenging issue(s) that your country faces as it relates to your home town, community, or way of life? 
One of the biggest challenges facing my community and way of life is the growing pressure on agriculture. In California, water is always the biggest concern. Drought, groundwater limits, and changing regulations make it hard for farmers and ranchers to plan ahead. When your work depends on the land and available water, that uncertainty affects everything. 
Another challenging issue we face is the rising costs of inputs that make it difficult for family operations to stay competitive. Feed, fuel, fertilizer, and equipment keep getting more expensive, while market prices for cattle, hay, and crops can change without warning. It puts a lot of strain on small operations like the one I grew up in. 
In California, we are losing farmland to development. Also fewer young people are staying in agriculture. That threatens the future of rural communities where farming isn’t just a job, it is our way of life. 
These challenges don’t just impact individual families; they shape the future of our entire community and the traditions we’re trying to carry forward.  

Essay Question 2:
Who were/are the most influential people in your life and in what way did they influence you? 
My dad, a first-generation farmer and rancher, has been one of the most influential people in my life. I grew up watching him build a livelihood from nothing but determination, long days, and a deep respect for the land. His work taught me that success isn’t inherited – it’s earned through consistency, grit, and the willingness to show up even when the work is hard. Seeing him take care of both the land and our community shaped my own sense of responsibility and taught me to take pride in doing things the right way, not the easy way. 
My grandmother has also had a profound impact on my life. As a young woman, she took a train from Antlers, Oklahoma to Modesto, California, determined to build a new future for herself. She went on to serve as a librarian at Modesto Junior College for 30 years, dedicating her life to helping students discover knowledge and opportunity. Her courage to start over in a new place and her belief in the power of education shaped my own love of learning. She taught me that curiosity is a strength and that education can open doors for everyone.  

Essay Question 3:
My father, David Absher, is a first generation agricultural producer of cattle, hay and almonds. He opened his original account with Stanislaus Farm Supply in January 2006 to purchase inputs for farming. After the merger of Stanislaus Farm Supply and Valley Wide Cooperative, he transitioned his account in the name of our farm and ranch as Absher Land & Livestock, Inc.  

Sam Phillips 

GPA: 4.59 

Ag Focus / Major:
Nursing 

Future Plans:
I chose nursing because I want to go into the field as a missionary, nursing will allow me access to places that are harder to get to because nurses are needed everywhere. Nursing will also set me up well once i come back home to the U.S., The factors that I most considered were how flexible the degree was and how valuable it is on a global landscape. Nursing almost perfectly satisfies this, and I feel that I will have extreme job security. 

Leadership:
I am involved in FCA club on campus as the treasurer and have been for 2 years. I Played Waterpolo, Cross Country, Golf, and Tennis at various times throughout high school playing some form of varsity for each except Cross Country. I have been a part of CSF since freshman year and will be a life member after last semester’s forms are processed. I participated in a partnership with United Way of Stanislaus County through our FBLA club to file taxes, free of charge for people who couldn’t afford to do it privately, on saturdays for a total of 32 hours on Saturdays in the spring of my junior year. I am an active member of my church, Crosspoint Community Church, volunteering on Sundays with young children, Wednesdays serving middle school students and younger high school students, and serving local, recently arriving, mostly Afghan, refugees each week facilitating English classes. As far as employment I work for my father on our family walnut farm in Patterson. My grandfather has Parkinson’s and I also work about 5 hours a week taking him to medical appointments, physical therapy, and other odd jobs that aren’t possible for him because of physical limitations. 

Essay Question 1:
One of the most challenging issues facing my community today is the growing cultural pressure on Christians or dilute their faith. While many believers still enjoy freedom to worship in the formal sense, there is increasing social resistance to biblical convictions, especially regarding human identity and sexuality. In many communities, openly expressing historic Christian beliefs can result in social exclusion, professional consequences, or public ridicule. This creates a subtle but powerful pressure to remain silent rather than live out faith openly. Another significant challenge is secularization. As society becomes more skeptical of religious authority, Christian perspectives are often dismissed as outdated or intolerant. Churches in some areas are shrinking, and younger generations are less likely to engage with Christian teaching. This shift affects not only public policy discussions but also everyday life, from education to workplace culture. Additionally, digital culture has intensified hostility. Social media can amplify criticism and create environments where Christians feel targeted or misrepresented. While physical persecution is rare in many parts of the country, the threat of marginalization and loss of influence is real. These challenges test believers’ courage and consistency, calling Christians to respond not with fear, but with faithfulness, humility, and love in an increasingly complex cultural landscape.  

Essay Question 2:
One of the most influential people in my life has been my youth pastor, Kyle. He has played a huge role in shaping not only my faith, but also my character and the way I view the world. Through his teachings and example, he has shown me what it truly means to love God with everything and to put Him first in every area of my life. He doesn’t just talk about faith—he lives it out daily through his actions, humility, and the way he treats others. Kyle has taught me that putting God first means trusting Him even when things are uncertain or difficult. He has encouraged me to build a personal relationship with God rather than just going through the motions. Because of him, my faith has become stronger and more personal. He has also shown me the importance of serving others with compassion and integrity, which has influenced my desire to go into nursing. His guidance has helped me make decisions based on faith rather than fear. I am grateful for the way he continues to mentor and support me, reminding me that success is not just about achievements, but about living a life that honors God.  

Essay Question 3:
My family has been involved with Valley Wide Cooperative for many years, mostly through my dad. He has been a loyal customer for a long time and buys a lot of his supplies from them. He spends a significant amount of money there each year because he trusts the quality of their products and the service they provide. Growing up, I have seen how important Valley Wide is to his work and how much he values having a dependable place to get what he needs. My dad has always talked about how helpful and knowledgeable the staff are, and how the cooperative supports local farmers and the community. Watching his relationship with Valley Wide has shown me the importance of supporting businesses that give back and build strong connections with their customers. It has definitely been a consistent part of my family’s life for as long as I can remember.