2026 Community Foundation Scholars

William Brown, University of South Dakota, Sanford School of Medicine

• Program: Doctor of Medicine
• Career Goals: "I intend to apply to emergency medicine or family medicine residencies. My wife and I are hoping to match to a program in the upper Midwest, so we can get trained without getting too far from home and family. Either way, we intend to return to South Dakota to practice. This is where I am meant to be, and I am excited to someday have the opportunity to practice medicine in my home state."

Madalyn Van Dusen, Alcester-Hudson High School

• Future Plans: Western Iowa Tech
• Anticipated Program: Education
• Career Goals: "Become an elementary teacher and help change lives like my teachers did!"

Kate Bouman, Baltic High School

• Future Plans: Black Hills State University
• Anticipated Major: Pre-Chiropractic
• Career Goals: "I plan to attend BHSU this fall in pursuit of a pre chiropractic degree."

Jayda Horton, Mitchell High School

• Future Plans: South Dakota State University
• Anticipated Major: Communication Studies
• Scholarship Impact: "I’m really thankful to be selected as a scholarship recipient. This money will help me as I start college this fall, and I truly appreciate the support. Thank you for supporting students like me and investing in our future."  

Hunter Brost, Sioux Falls Roosevelt High School

• Future Plans: South Dakota State University
• Anticipated Major: Engineering
• Career Goals: "I am aspiring to become an engineer through SDSU so I can design new ways to help communities."

Kinsley Pesicka, Sioux Falls Roosevelt High School

• Future Plans: University of South Dakota
• Anticipated Major: Nursing
• Career Goals: "I am attending the University of South Dakota to major in nursing and to continue my soccer career!"

Sierra Mortensen, Sioux Falls Jefferson High School

• Future Plans: South Dakota State University
• Anticipated Major: Human Biology
• Career Goals: "I plan on being the first person in my family to graduate college and further my education into the medical field as a radiologist."

Addison DeWit, Sioux Falls Washington High School

• Future Plans: University of Sioux Falls
• Anticipated Major: Elementary and Special Education
• Career Goals: "I am planning to attend the University of Sioux Falls to study Elementary and Special Education. I plan to teach in South Dakota and hope to make a difference in the lives of my students like so many teachers did for me."

Natalie Dohrenwend, Sioux Falls Roosevelt High School

• Future Plans: University of South Dakota
• Anticipated Major: Nursing
• Career Goals: "I plan to pursue a Registered Nursing degree and dedicate my career to providing quality patient care. I also hope to pursue higher nursing education in the future, allowing me to take on advanced roles and make an even greater impact in the healthcare field."

Lukas Gedge, Brandon Valley High School

• Future Plans: South Dakota Mines
• Anticipated Major: Electrical Engineering
• Career Goals: "I am planning on going into electrical engineering, and finding a life long career through South Dakota Mine's job fair."

Adam Johnson, West Central High School

• Future Plans: South Dakota State University
• Anticipated Major: Mechanical Engineering
• Career Goals: "I hope to graduate with a degree in mechanical engineering and get a job in South Dakota. I hope that I will be able to continue to contribute in a positive manner towards my community."

Taylor Kroger, Canton High School

• Future Plans: South Dakota State University
• Anticipated Major: Pharmacy
• Career Goals: "I will be attending SDSU in the fall with a major in pharmacy. After that, I plan to work as a retail pharmacist close to home."

Kinsley Pesicka, Sioux Falls Roosevelt High School

• Future Plans: University of South Dakota
• Anticipated Major: Nursing
• Career Goals: "I am attending the University of South Dakota to major in nursing and to continue my soccer career!"

Rheanna Petersen, Sioux Falls Lincoln High School

• Future Plans: University of South Dakota
• Anticipated Major: Biology
• Career Goals: "I plan to study biology at USD with the hopes of working with wildlife someday, whether that be through marine biology, conservation, or both!"

Kate Preheim, Sioux Falls Christian School

• Future Plans: South Dakota Mines
• Anticipated Major: Electrical Engineering
• Career Goals: "I am planning to continue pursuing my education by attending South Dakota School of Mines and Technology to study electrical engineering. I am excited to continue serving my community throughout college and beyond."

Sarina VanDaalen, Dell Rapids High School

• Future Plans: University of South Dakota
• Anticipated Major: Nursing
• Career Goals: "I plan to attend the University of South Dakota to major in nursing and possibly minor in psychology. I plan on becoming a pediatric nurse unless I find another specialty I like. I do hope to be able to help kids or anyone in any way that I can by being someone that they can rely on when they don’t feel well. If given the chance I would consider being a travel nurse so I would be able to see new places while working and gaining experience."

Autumn Baker, Kimball High School

• Future Plans: Southeast Technical College
• Anticipated Program: Accounting and Business Administration
• Career Goals: "After the completion of my degrees, I hope to have an impact on a local business in the Kimball area!"

Kenley Williamson, Brandon Valley High School

• Future Plans: South Dakota State University
• Anticipated Major: Human Biology, Pre-PA
• Career Goals: "I will be attending SDSU to major in Human Biology and pursue a career in the healthcare field of Physicians Assisting."

Sophia Pascoe, Sioux Falls Lincoln High School

• Future Plans: Augustana University
• Anticipated Major: Fine Arts with a minor in Environmental Science
• Career Goals: "I want to continue creating art and learn more at Augustana about art. I hope to combine my love of painting and environmental science for work."

Kaylen Morehouse, Sioux Falls Washington High School

• Future Plans: Augustana University
• Anticipated Major: Nursing (Pre-Med)
• Career Goals: "I plan to finish my nursing program at Augustana and hopefully go on to earn my doctorate and start my own practice."

Kylan West, Douglas High School

• Future Plans: Black Hills State University
• Anticipated Major: Biology
• Career Goals: "My future goal is to become an oncologist. I have experienced family members that have dealt with cancer and my paternal grandfather passed away this past January from cancer. I would love to help the people who are suffering with this disease."

Josie Nelson, Canton High School

• Future Plans: University of Sioux Falls
• Anticipated Major: Psychology and Exercise Science
• Career Goals: "I am planning to attend the University of Sioux Falls next fall, where I will major in Psychology and Exercise Science. These fields of study will help me to reach my goal of being an occupational therapist one day. With this career, I hope to help with youth rehabilitation."

Gunnar Swenson, Canton High School

• Future Plans: South Dakota State University
• Anticipated Major: Electrical Engineering
• Career Goals: "I want to explore higher math and science courses through electrical engineering, as I have seen past friends and teammates go down the same path."

Gracyn Kadlec, Ipswich High School

• Future Plans: University of South Dakota
• Anticipated Major: Medical Biology
• Career Goals: "I plan to study medical biology with the intent to become a South Dakota provider specializing in OB/GYN."

Julia Marcus, Sioux Falls Christian School

• Future Plans: South Dakota State University
• Anticipated Major: Human Biology
• Career Goals: "I will be going to South Dakota State University majoring in Human Biology on the pre-med track. I have a passion for the medical field and I hope to discover which role fits me best!"

Milena Vercellino, Sioux Falls Lincoln High School

• Future Plans: University of South Dakota
• Anticipated Major: Pre Law and Spanish
• Career Goals: "I plan to attend the University of South Dakota for the Fall 2026 semester on a Pre Law track while continuing my studies in Spanish. I hope one day to pass the BAR and to become a State’s Attorney or some kind of prosecutor in criminal court."

Deegan Moes, Doland High School

• Future Plans: Lake Area Technical College
• Anticipated Program: Ag Business
• Career Goals: "This fall I will be attending LATC for Ag Business. Once I complete my education my plan is to return to the family farm."

Callianna Halverson, Canton High School

• Future Plans: South Dakota State University
• Anticipated Major: Nursing
• Career Goals: "I plan to get my BSN and continue the tradition of nursing in my family. After gaining some experience, I plan to consider becoming a nurse practitioner."

Taylor Kroger, Canton High School

• Future Plans: South Dakota State University
• Anticipated Major: Pharmacy
• Career Goals: "I will be attending SDSU in the fall with a major in pharmacy. After that, I plan to work as a retail pharmacist close to home."

Owen Serck, Alcester-Hudson High School

• Future Plans: Dakota Wesleyan University
• Anticipated Major: Wildlife Management
• Career Goals: "I plan to attend Dakota Wesleyan University o wrestle and major in wildlife management with future aspirations of becoming a game warden."

Ellie Boehrns, Sioux Falls Lincoln High School

• Future Plans: Minnesota State University, Mankato
• Anticipated Major: Communication and Media
• Career Goals: "I am planning on pursuing Communication and Media in order to go into the field of journalism or PR managing."

Dawson Holthe, Sioux Falls Christian School

• Future Plans: Bethel University
• Anticipated Major: Exercise Science
• Career Goals: "My aspiration is to become a sports physical therapist so I can help athletes recover from injuries, improve performance, and return to the sports they love. I plan to major in exercise science to gain a strong understanding of the human body, movement, and athletic performance. Through this career, I hope to combine my passion for sports, fitness, and helping others by working closely with athletes to keep them healthy and performing at their best."

Jackson Lowry, Sioux Falls Roosevelt High School

• Future Plans: University of South Dakota
• Anticipated Major: Pre-Law
• Career Goals: "My future aspirations are to attend law school and practice law. Using the skills I will learn I also hope I can start my own business someday using my connections from law."

Sierra Mortensen, Sioux Falls Jefferson High School

• Future Plans: South Dakota State University
• Anticipated Major: Human Biology
• Career Goals: "I plan on being the first person in my family to graduate college and further my education into the medical field as a radiologist."

Vanessa Pintilie, Sioux Falls Jefferson High School

• Future Plans: South Dakota State University
• Anticipated Major: Interior Design
• Career Goals: "I want to attend college and major in interior design."

Jaedyn Penning, Groton Area High School

• Future Plans: Dakota Wesleyan University
• Anticipated Major: Athletic Training
• Career Goals: "I plan to attend Dakota Wesleyan University to study to become on Athletic Trainer! I hope to work in the collegiate or professional setting."

Natalia Warrington, Groton Area High School

• Future Plans: Black Hills State University
• Anticipated Major: Psychology
• Career Goals: "I plan to study psychology at Black Hills State University to become a mental health and addictions counselor!"

Alex Parker, Sioux Falls Jefferson High School

• Future Plans: Augustana University
• Anticipated Major: Psychology
• Career Goals: "I want to study psychology to hopefully one day become an adolescent psychologist and help people who struggle with what I struggled with. I have been helped by so many caring professionals in my life that I just want to give back to others."

Lauren Grinde, South Dakota State University

• Major: Nursing
• Career Goals: "I am a current nursing student at South Dakota State University, and I am excited for this opportunity! My future aspirations include furthering my education in the nursing profession while providing compassionate, patient-centered care. I hope to continue growing both personally and professionally, with the goal of making a positive impact in my community and supporting individuals and families through their healthcare journeys!"

Loralei Rieck, Sioux Falls Roosevelt High School

• Future Plans: Southeast Technical College
• Anticipated Major: Nursing
• Career Goals: "I wish to continue my education and further my knowledge to provide further for my community. As I continue and get my nursing degree, I will strive to be the best I can be."

Mataya Cummins, Sioux Falls Lincoln High School

• Future Plans: Augustana University
• Anticipated Major: Nursing
• Career Goals: "I aspire to become a nurse because I want to help others and make a positive difference in people’s lives. I am passionate about caring for others and providing support to people."

Gunnar Grant, Sioux Falls Lincoln High School

• Future Plans: South Dakota State University
• Anticipated Major: Mechanical Engineering
• Career Goals: "My ultimate goal in life is to be successful enough to retire my mom, and also have fun doing what interests me."

Ezra Hodgins, Sioux Falls Lincoln High School

• Future Plans: South Dakota State University
• Anticipated Major: Physics
• Career Goals: "In the future, I aspire to apply my studies in physics to advance research in the origins of earth and the universe."

Logan Sanborn, Sioux Falls Lincoln High School

• Future Plans: University of South Dakota
• Anticipated Major: Journalism and Nursing
• Career Goals: "I hope to explore two interests of mine in college: journalism and nursing. I’m hopeful to find my future career path at USD and to see where my journey takes me."

Milena Vercellino, Sioux Falls Lincoln High School

• Future Plans: University of South Dakota
• Anticipated Major: Pre Law and Spanish
• Career Goals: "I plan to attend the University of South Dakota for the Fall 2026 semester on a Pre Law track while continuing my studies in Spanish. I hope one day to pass the BAR and to become a State’s Attorney or some kind of prosecutor in criminal court."

Addison DeWit, Sioux Falls Washington High School

• Future Plans: University of Sioux Falls
• Anticipated Major: Elementary and Special Education
• Career Goals: "I am planning to attend the University of Sioux Falls to study Elementary and Special Education. I plan to teach in South Dakota and hope to make a difference in the lives of my students like so many teachers did for me."

Emma Hulstein, Sioux Falls Washington High School

• Future Plans: Augustana University
• Anticipated Major: Elementary Education
• Career Goals: "I am hoping to secure a teaching position ideally in 4th or 5th grade in the Sioux Falls area. I hope to inspire young minds as my teachers have inspired me."

Sophie Magnusson, Sioux Falls Washington High School

• Future Plans: South Dakota State University
• Anticipated Major: Mathematics
• Career Goals: "In my future I would like to become a math teacher. As much as I love math, that is not the only reason why I want to become a teacher. I want to help be an impact in the future generations just as some of my teachers have made impacts in my life for the better."

Ellie Boehrns, Sioux Falls Lincoln High School

• Future Plans: Minnesota State University, Mankato
• Anticipated Major: Communication and Media
• Career Goals: "I am planning on pursuing Communication and Media in order to go into the field of journalism or PR managing."

Wyatt Baumberger, Dell Rapids St. Mary

• Future Plans: Augustana University
• Anticipated Major: History
• Career Goals: "I will be attending Augustana University in the fall and majoring in History. My career goals are to be both a history teacher and an athletic coach."

Kirti Pickard, Dell Rapids High School

• Future Plans: University of Kansas
• Anticipated Major: Human Biology
• Career Goals: "My plans are centered around becoming a doctor in efforts to start my own medical clinics. I will be attending the University of Kansas to major in human biology on the track of pre-med. I would like to become an OBGYN doctor to start medical clinics to help women in underserved regions of the world."

Sarah Schoolmeester, Dell Rapids High School

• Future Plans: Augustana University
• Anticipated Major: Human Biology
• Career Goals: "As I begin my college endeavors, I plan to attend Augustana University to study human biology on the pre med track with the long term goal of being a pediatrician or geriatrician."

Gunnar Grant, Sioux Falls Lincoln High School

• Future Plans: South Dakota State University
• Anticipated Major: Mechanical Engineering
• Career Goals: "My ultimate goal in life is to be successful enough to retire my mom, and also have fun doing what interests me."

Ezra Hodgins, Sioux Falls Lincoln High School

• Future Plans: South Dakota State University
• Anticipated Major: Physics
• Career Goals: "In the future, I aspire to apply my studies in physics to advance research in the origins of earth and the universe."

Daniel Idris, Sioux Falls Washington High School

• Future Plans: Mount Marty University
• Anticipated Major: Business Administration
• Career Goals: "I plan on using this money to fund my education at Mount Marty University, where I will study Business Administration in hopes of becoming a financial advisor in the future!"

Rain Materese, Sioux Falls Jefferson High School

• Future Plans: Augustana University
• Anticipated Major: Anthropology
• Career Goals: "I plan on obtaining my BA in anthropology within 4 years then completing my MA online or in person in archeology and completing a field school, then obtaining my PhD in archeology go become a professional archaeologist in Europe."

Lyla Wittrup, Sioux Falls Roosevelt High School

• Future Plans: Iowa State University
• Anticipated Major: Marketing
• Career Goals: "I will be attending Iowa State University in the fall to major in marketing. While my specific career path is unclear, I am planning to enter the business world and hope to stay in/near the Midwest. My main goals are to be an honest, influential, and community-oriented business woman. This scholarship will help support me in clarifying my career path and propelling me forward to leave a positive impact on the local business industry."

Amber Oakland, Black Hills State University

• Major: Special Education/Early Childhood Education
• Career Goals: "I will be going into my 4th year at BHSU, graduating Spring of 2027 with a bachelors degree in education hoping to make an impact educating young children!"

Kylie Hermann, Redfield High School

• Future Plans: Northern State University
• Anticipated Major: Nursing
• Career Goals: "I am excited to continue my learning path, and with your generous scholarship funds, I am able to devote more of my time and energy to my studies. After graduation I intend to come back to Redfield and work at our local hospital."

Tucker Nelson, Redfield High School

• Future Plans: South Dakota State University
• Anticipated Major: Medical Assistance

Cora Hofer, Hitchcock-Tulare High School

• Future Plans: South Dakota State University
• Anticipated Major: Entrepreneurial Studies
• Career Goals: "I plan to attend SDSU in the fall and continue my education while majoring in entrepreneurship and land appraisal studies. I hope to learn useful tools and gain experiences that will allow me to pursue my dreams."

Jayda Horton, Mitchell High School

• Future Plans: South Dakota State University
• Anticipated Major: Communication Studies
• Scholarship Impact: "I’m really thankful to be selected as a scholarship recipient. This money will help me as I start college this fall, and I truly appreciate the support. Thank you for supporting students like me and investing in our future."  

Arden McGraw, Tea Area High School

• Future Plans: University of Alabama
• Anticipated Major: Engineering
• Career Goals: "I plan to attend the University of Alabama for engineering, which would help prepare me for several possible careers."

Preston Rounds, Deuel High School

• Future Plans: Concordia University
• Anticipated Major: Accounting and Pre-Seminary Program
• Career Goals: "I desire to become a Minister within the Lutheran Church Missouri Synod. I have always wanted to help people with both physical and spiritual needs. I pray God will use me both as a soldier in the South Dakota Army National Guard and as a minister to better the world around me."

Alexander Shottenkirk, Redfield High School

• Future Plans: University of South Dakota
• Anticipated Major: Health Sciences
• Career Goals: "I am planning on attending USD for health sciences on a pre med route. I am looking to further my education over multiple years in hopes to become an orthopedic surgeon."

Lyla Wittrup, Sioux Falls Roosevelt High School

• Future Plans: Iowa State University
• Anticipated Major: Marketing
• Career Goals: "I will be attending Iowa State University in the fall to major in marketing. While my specific career path is unclear, I am planning to enter the business world and hope to stay in/near the Midwest. My main goals are to be an honest, influential, and community-oriented business woman. This scholarship will help support me in clarifying my career path and propelling me forward to leave a positive impact on the local business industry."

Hadley Johnson, Lennox High School

• Future Plans: University of South Dakota
• Anticipated Major: Communication Sciences and Disorders
• Career Goals: "I hope to build a career as a speech pathologist where I can make a positive difference in people’s lives while continuing to learn and grow as a person. In the future, I want to help others, build strong connections and make a meaningful impact in my community. I’m excited to continue my education at the University of South Dakota and explore new opportunities that will help me reach my goals."

Emersen Lee, Lennox High School

• Future Plans: University of Nebraska, Lincoln
• Anticipated Major: Mechanical Engineering
• Career Goals: "I plan on attending the University of Nebraska Lincoln to study Mechanical Engineering. I would like to work in an engineering field that helps people. I would like to either minor is Aerospace, Prosthetics, or Energy Engineering."

Paislee Lindstrom, Montrose High School

• Future Plans: South Dakota State University
• Anticipated Major: Nursing
• Career Goals: "I plan to attend South Dakota State University with a major in nursing, to hopefully become an oncology nurse practitioner."

Madysen Roth, West Central High School

• Future Plans: Northern State University
• Anticipated Major: Elementary Education and Special Education
• Career Goals: "I plan to attend Northern State University to dual major in Elementary Education and Special Education. I also plan on being a part of the Northern color guard team. I hope to become an elementary school teacher for grades k-2."

Naomi Jespersen, Sioux Falls Lincoln High School

• Future Plans: University of Alabama
• Anticipated Major: Microbiology
• Career Goals: "This coming fall, I will attend the University of Alabama Honors College to major in Microbiology on the pre-med track. Additionally, I was accepted into the Randall Research Scholars Program, which will allow me to participate in four years of biomedical research and mentorship."

Brayden Kludt, Menno High School

• Future Plans: Lake Area Technical College
• Anticipated Major: Physical Therapy Assistant
• Career Goals: "I plan to attend Lake Area Technical College this fall to pursue the field of physical therapy. I appreciate any chance to grow my knowledge in this field as I attend college and as I enter into my career. I can’t thank the people who have helped, enough. They will be integral to my future success."

Hannah Ferguson, Huron High School

• Future Plans: South Dakota State University
• Anticipated Major: Criminal Justice
• Career Goals: "My future goal are to become a police officer. When I was younger I was involved in a situation where I needed support from my local police, they were there through everything. This is why I am choosing this career path and going to college to be able to move up in my career."

Arden McGraw, Tea Area High School

• Future Plans: University of Alabama
• Anticipated Major: Engineering
• Career Goals: "I plan to attend the University of Alabama for engineering, which would help prepare me for several possible careers."

Alana Carlson, Sioux Falls Washington High School

• Future Plans: University of South Dakota
• Anticipated Major: Psychology
• Career Goals: "I'm hoping to continue my education at USD, working towards a career related to clinical psychology."

Gunnar Grant, Sioux Falls Lincoln High School

• Future Plans: South Dakota State University
• Anticipated Major: Mechanical Engineering
• Career Goals: "My ultimate goal in life is to be successful enough to retire my mom, and also have fun doing what interests me."

Caitlyn Pickett, Baltic High School

• Future Plans: Utica University
• Anticipated Major: Occupational Therapy
• Career Goals: "I aspire to build a career centered on making a meaningful difference in people’s lives. I plan to earn a degree in occupational therapy and specialize in pediatrics, where I can support children in overcoming challenges and reaching their full potential. My passion comes from my own experiences. During my recovery from sports injuries, the care and encouragement I received from my occupational therapist had a lasting impact on me. I hope to become that same source of support and inspiration for others, helping children and their families navigate their journeys with confidence and hope."

Adisyn Kohl, Sisseton High School

• Future Plans: Southeast Technical College
• Anticipated Major: Nursing
• Career Goals: "I will attend Southeast Technical College and obtain my LPN and then I will go on and get my RN. I then hope to work in a hospital in the Sioux Falls area."

Mason Dean, Sioux Falls Lincoln High School

• Future Plans: University of Minnesota, Twin Cities
• Anticipated Major: Marketing
• Career Goals: "My future aspirations are to finish college with a bachelor's degree in both marketing and communication studies (or whatever I end up switching my major to). I want to experience the vibrant community of a large city in Minneapolis and take advantage of all the opportunities that come with it. I have absolutely no idea what career I want to end up in after I finish college—I just know that I have a passion for communication and want to live a fulfilling life."

Madilyn Dinges, Sioux Falls Lutheran

• Future Plans: University of Minnesota, Crookston
• Anticipated Major: Criminal Justice
• Career Goals: "I plan on either going to law school after college and being a criminal prosecutor, or becoming an SVU detective, or pursuing a form of social work."

Dawson Holthe, Sioux Falls Christian School

• Future Plans: Bethel University
• Anticipated Major: Exercise Science
• Career Goals: "My aspiration is to become a sports physical therapist so I can help athletes recover from injuries, improve performance, and return to the sports they love. I plan to major in exercise science to gain a strong understanding of the human body, movement, and athletic performance. Through this career, I hope to combine my passion for sports, fitness, and helping others by working closely with athletes to keep them healthy and performing at their best."

Brenna Kestel, O'Gorman High School

• Future Plans: University of Nebraska, Lincoln
• Anticipated Major: Biological Sciences on the Pre-Dental track
• Career Goals: "I plan to earn my undergraduate degree in Biology at the University of Nebraska, and following that I plan to attend dental school!"

Kennedy Miller, Sioux Falls Roosevelt High School

• Future Plans: North Dakota State University
• Anticipated Major: Political Science
• Career Goals: "I aspire to go to law school after completing a degree in political science with 2 minors in pre-law and Spanish. I wish to eventually go into immigration law! Additionally, I plan to coach speech and debate for high school."

Hannah Nesdahl, Sioux Falls Washington High School

• Future Plans: University of Minnesota, Crookston
• Anticipated Major: Exercise Science
• Career Goals: "I hope to be a pediatric occupational therapist in an elementary school and continue playing volleyball!"

Andie Peters, Lennox High School

• Future Plans: Dakota Wesleyan University
• Anticipated Major: Exercise Science/Athletic Training
• Career Goals: "I want to build a future career where I can combine my love for sports with my desire to help others. I want to support athletes in staying healthy, recovering from injuries and playing at their highest level all while making a positive impact in their lives."

Ryley McKeown, Brandon Valley High School

• Future Plans: Massachusetts Institute of Technology
• Anticipated Major: TBD

Jacob Cole, Alcester-Hudson High School

• Future Plans: Mitchell Technical College
• Anticipated Major: Electrical Construction and Maintenance
• Career Goals: "My goal is to build a successful career in the electrical industry by gaining hands-on experience and developing strong technical skills. I hope to continue growing in the field and build a stable, rewarding future doing work I enjoy!"

Cianna Thompson, Sioux Falls Jefferson High School

• Future Plans: Augustana University
• Anticipated Major: Nursing
• Career Goals: "I plan attend to Augustana University to earn my Bachelor’s in nursing. After, I plan to work in the ICU for 3 years making me qualified to go back to school and become a Certified Registered Nursing Anesthetist. I’m looking forward to attending college with my son and making better life for the both of us."

Madalyn Van Dusen, Alcester-Hudson High School

• Future Plans: Western Iowa Technical College
• Anticipated Major: Education
• Career Goals: "Become a elementary teacher and help change lives like my teachers did!"

Jeremy Eich, Canton High School

• Future Plans: University of Nebraska, Lincoln
• Anticipated Major: Undecided
• Career Goals: "I’m not for sure at the moment, but my plan right now is to major in biology, or something pre-health that can get me into pharmacy school. I am hoping to complete pharmacy school  to become a pharmacist."

Kaylee Henderson, Canton High School

• Future Plans: University of Nebraska, Lincoln
• Anticipated Major: Business and Management

Elliot Hortness, Sisseton High School

• Future Plans: Dakota Wesleyan University
• Anticipated Major: Elementary Education
• Career Goals: "Next year, I plan to attend Dakota Wesleyan University. At DWU, I plan to pursue a degree in elementary education and play women’s basketball."

Madison Rauenhorst, Brookings High School

• Future Plans: Mitchell Technical College
• Anticipated Program: Animal Science
• Career Goals: "I plan to attend Mitchell Tech in the fall of 2026. And I will studying Animal Science. After college I hope to work with cattle."

Arianna Bieber, Timber Lake High School

• Future Plans: Southeast Technical College
• Anticipated Major: Business Administration
• Career Goals: "My future plans are to major in business administration and get my associate's degree. I want to become an entrepreneur eventually and have my own business. I grew up in an entrepreneurial environment, and I took an interest in it also. I am motivated, responsible, independent, driven and excited to continue growing as a person. The lessons I have learned have helped shape me today. Earning this scholarship will help me along my journey. I am so grateful for this opportunity."

Edilam Durecha, Sioux Falls Jefferson High School

• Future Plans: Southeast Technical College
• Anticipated Program: Accounting
• Scholarship Impact: "I am really grateful for this chance! Getting this scholarship is everything to me, and I am super eager to start my studies. I can't wait to absorb all the knowledge I can about accounting and use this education to create a successful future."

Braylon Foster, West Central High School

• Future Plans: Southeast Technical College
• Anticipated Program: Construction Management
• Career Goals: "I will be attending Southeast Technical College next Fall for Construction Management. I will be starting my career next week framing houses for a local company. My goal is to finish my degree and work for this company to gain experience. My goal is to own my own residential construction company."

Cade Foster, West Central High School

• Future Plans: Mitchell Technical College
• Anticipated Program: Entrepreneurship
• Career Goals: "I plan on going to Mitchell Technical College for entrepreneurship and then, further down the line, make my own welding business."

Payton Mundt, Sioux Falls Washington High School

• Future Plans: Mitchell Technical College
• Anticipated Program: Architectural Design and Building Construction
• Career Goals: "I’ve always enjoyed construction and building since I was young. Upon taking numerous woodworking and Construction classes throughout High School, it confirmed that I wanted to be in the Construction field for my career. I also like being in a leadership role, whether it’s in High School classrooms and organizations, National Honor Society, work or church. I chose Mitchell Tech because I appreciate that it offers classroom learning and large-scale hands-on work. My career goal is to be in residential construction. I see myself being a Project Manager and leading jobs, along with learning how a business is run. My long-term dream is to own my own residential construction company someday."

Loralei Rieck, Sioux Falls Roosevelt High School

• Future Plans: Southeast Technical College
• Anticipated Program: Nursing
• Career Goals: "I wish to continue my education and further my knowledge to provide further for my community. As I continue and get my nursing degree, I will strive to be the best I can be."

Carson Maeschen, Dell Rapids High School

• Future Plans: Northwestern College
• Anticipated Major: Pre-Med
• Career Goals: "Study pre-med and then go to medical school in hopes to become a dermatologist."

Sarina VanDaalen, Dell Rapids High School

• Future Plans: University of South Dakota
• Anticipated Major: Nursing
• Career Goals: "I plan to attend the University of South Dakota to major in nursing and possibly minor in psychology. I plan on becoming a pediatric nurse unless I find another specialty I like. I do hope to be able to help kids or anyone in any way that I can by being someone that they can rely on when they don’t feel well. If given the chance I would consider being a travel nurse so I would be able to see new places while working and gaining experience."

Grace Wenzel, Sioux Falls Christian School

• Future Plans: University of Sioux Falls
• Anticipated Major: Theology and Youth Ministry
• Career Goals: "I plan to attend the University of Sioux Falls and pursue a major in theology and youth ministry. I am also going to participate in choir."

Mohammed Abdelmageed, Sioux Falls Washington High School

• Future Plans: Augustana University
• Anticipated Major: Biology
• Career Goals: "I’m going to Augustana University to study biology on the pre-med track, with the goal of attending medical school and becoming a surgeon one day."

Jackson Lowry, Sioux Falls Roosevelt High School

• Future Plans: University of South Dakota
• Anticipated Major: Pre-Law
• Career Goals: "My future aspirations are to attend law school and practice law. Using the skills I will learn I also hope I can start my own business someday using my connections from law."

Cianna Thompson, Sioux Falls Jefferson High School

• Future Plans: Augustana University
• Anticipated Major: Nursing
• Career Goals: "I plan attend to Augustana University to earn my Bachelor’s in nursing. After, I plan to work in the ICU for 3 years making me qualified to go back to school and become a Certified Registered Nursing Anesthetist. I’m looking forward to attending college with my son and making better life for the both of us."

Hadley Johnson, Lennox High School

• Future Plans: University of South Dakota
• Anticipated Major: Communication Sciences and Disorders
• Career Goals: "I hope to build a career as a speech pathologist where I can make a positive difference in people’s lives while continuing to learn and grow as a person. In the future, I want to help others, build strong connections and make a meaningful impact in my community. I’m excited to continue my education at the University of South Dakota and explore new opportunities that will help me reach my goals."

Rosario Valdez, Augustana University

• Major: International Studies and Philosophy
• Career Goals: "My goal is to become an immigration lawyer so I can help immigrants navigate the immigration process."

Kirti Pickard, Dell Rapids High School

• Future Plans: University of Kansas
• Anticipated Major: Human Biology
• Career Goals: "My plans are centered around becoming a doctor in efforts to start my own medical clinics. I will be attending the University of Kansas to major in human biology on the track of pre-med. I would like to become an OBGYN doctor to start medical clinics to help women in underserved regions of the world."

Kenley Williamson, Brandon Valley High School

• Future Plans: South Dakota State University
• Anticipated Major: Human Biology, Pre-PA
• Career Goals: "I will be attending SDSU to major in Human Biology and pursue a career in the healthcare field of Physicians Assisting."

Amber Oakland, Black Hills State University

• Major: Special Education/Early Childhood Education
• Career Goals: "I will be going into my 4th year at BHSU, graduating Spring of 2027 with a bachelors degree in education hoping to make an impact educating young children!"

Biruk Dejene, Sioux Falls Jefferson High School

• Future Plans: Southeast Technical College
• Anticipated Program: Software Development
• Career Goals: "I see myself as a creator building impactful solutions that actually make difference."

Braylon Foster, West Central High School

• Future Plans: Southeast Technical College
• Anticipated Program: Construction Management
• Career Goals: "I will be attending Southeast Technical College next Fall for Construction Management. I will be starting my career next week framing houses for a local company. My goal is to finish my degree & work for this company to gain experience. My goal is to own my own residential construction company."

Elijah Anderson, South Dakota State University

• Major: Accounting with a minor in Economics
• Career Goals: "My future career aspirations remain open as I explore opportunities in both business and finance. I am considering several paths, such as becoming a CPA or pursuing a career in banking. While the specific career is still unknown, I am committed to building a reputation based on integrity, knowledge, and professionalism, as I want to make a positive impact on the organizations and communities where I serve."

Reanna Decker, South Dakota State University

• Major: Business Economics
• Career Goals: "I plan to pursue a business economics degree, minoring in real estate and digital marketing. With this I would like to start a real estate agency!"

Arden McGraw, Tea Area High School

• Future Plans: University of Alabama
• Anticipated Major: Engineering
• Career Goals: "I plan to attend the University of Alabama for engineering, which would help prepare me for several possible careers."

Kairis Thomas, Tea Area High School

• Future Plans: Augustana University
• Anticipated Major: Nursing
• Career Goals: "I am going to Augustana University and plan to major in nursing. I will also participate in choir, and several intramural sports and clubs. I am very grateful for receiving this scholarship!"

Zach Greble, Sioux Falls O'Gorman High School

• Future Plans: Hastings College
• Anticipated Major: Physics and Math
• Career Goals: "After college, I plan to attend grad school to pursue a high degree in physics. After that, I would like to be an astrophysicist studying black holes and stars in the universe."

Wyatt Baumberger, Dell Rapids St. Mary

• Future Plans: Augustana University
• Anticipated Major: History
• Career Goals: "I will be attending Augustana University in the fall and majoring in History. My career goals are to be both a history teacher and an athletic coach."

Rylee Chamley, Dell Rapids St. Mary

• Future Plans: South Dakota State University
• Anticipated Major: Nursing
• Career Goals: "I’m planning to attend South Dakota State University in the fall to fulfill my dreams of becoming a pediatric nurse, where I can help children and families feel comforted in difficult times of their lives."

Stephenie Geraets, Dell Rapids St. Mary

• Future Plans: Southeast Technical College
• Anticipated Major: Diagnostic Medical Sonography
• Career Goals: "After getting my degree at Southeast Technical College, I plan to work at Sanford Hospital in Sioux Falls as an OB/GYN ultrasound technician! I also would like to get married and start a family within the next few years."

Addyson Hammer, Flandreau High School

• Future Plans: Mitchell Technical College
• Anticipated Program: Medical Assistant
• Career Goals: "I plan to attend Mitchell tech for medical assistant and then possibly go for my LPN and RN!"

Owen Kelm, Flandreau High School

• Future Plans: South Dakota Mines
• Anticipated Major: Electrical Engineering
• Career Goals: "In the future, I wish to pursue a career in some sort of electrical engineering field. Whether that is working for a major company or a small, local one, I hope to seek employment in this field."

Lincoln LeBrun, Dell Rapids St. Mary

• Future Plans: Dakota State University
• Anticipated Major: Business Finance
• Career Goals: "I plan to attend DSU to get a degree and play football. After that, I plan to start working on the farm."

Brianna Weiland, Dell Rapids St. Mary

• Future Plans: South Dakota State University
• Anticipated Program: Agricultural Business
• Career Goals: "In the future, I hope to use my degree in agricultural business to work for an agriculture related company such as Agtegra or Farm Credit. I want to support the industry that I grew up in, and I believe SDSU will help me reach my aspirations."

Stephenie Geraets, Dell Rapids St. Mary

• Future Plans: Southeast Technical College
• Anticipated Major: Diagnostic Medical Sonography
• Career Goals: "After getting my degree at Southeast Technical College, I plan to work at Sanford Hospital in Sioux Falls as an OB/GYN ultrasound technician! I also would like to get married and start a family within the next few years."

Clare Kappenman, Canton High School

• Future Plans: University of South Dakota
• Anticipated Major: Health Sciences
• Career Goals: "I plan on attending USD to major in Health Sciences. My goal is to be an occupational therapist."

Quintin Bakke, Canton High School

• Future Plans: University of South Dakota
• Anticipated Major: Medical Biology
• Career Goals: "For my future I hope to finish my degree in medical biology and possibly go into physical therapy, but if that’s not the path life takes me specifically I want to do something in the medical field."

Daniel Idris, Sioux Falls Washington High School

• Future Plans: Mount Marty University
• Anticipated Major: Business Administration
• Career Goals: "I plan on using this money to fund my education at Mount Marty University, where I will study Business Administration in hopes of becoming a financial advisor in the future!"

Berline Royal, Tri-Valley High School

• Future Plans: Southeast Technical College
• Anticipated Program: Business Administration
• Career Goals: "My future aspiration is to pursue a career in Business Administration and use the knowledge and experience I gain to prepare for my future. On the way, I hope to become a successful entrepreneur and turn my passion for business into meaningful impact by creating solutions that help others and provide better opportunities. I know challenges may come along the way, but with my confidence, I believe with determination, resilience and hard work, I will continue pushing forward to build a successful future and make a positive difference in my community."

Lyla Wittrup, Sioux Falls Roosevelt High School

• Future Plans: Iowa State University
• Anticipated Major: Marketing
• Career Goals: "I will be attending Iowa State University in the fall to major in marketing. While my specific career path is unclear, I am planning to enter the business world and hope to stay in/near the Midwest. My main goals are to be an honest, influential, and community-oriented business woman. This scholarship will help support me in clarifying my career path and propelling me forward to leave a positive impact on the local business industry."

Kateryna Matviichuk, University of South Dakota

• Major: Nursing
• Career Goals: "For as long as I can remember, I have wanted to be a nurse. After graduating from nursing school, I plan to work as a labor and delivery nurse for a couple of years. After that, I plan to apply to the Nurse-Midwifery program and be trained as a professional midwife. However, my dream extends far beyond the walls of any single hospital. I want to work in underserved communities where maternal health resources are limited and where women face preventable risks due to lack of care, lack of information, or lack of access. I want to be part of the solution, bringing compassionate care, evidence-based practice, and health education to those who need them most, promoting culturally respectful midwifery care."

Daniel Idris, Sioux Falls Washington High School

• Future Plans: Mount Marty University
• Anticipated Major: Business Administration
• Career Goals: "I plan on using this money to fund my education at Mount Marty University, where I will study Business Administration in hopes of becoming a financial advisor in the future!"

Kirti Pickard, Dell Rapids High School

• Future Plans: University of Kansas
• Anticipated Major: Human Biology
• Career Goals: "My plans are centered around becoming a doctor in efforts to start my own medical clinics. I will be attending the University of Kansas to major in human biology on the track of pre-med. I would like to become an OBGYN doctor to start medical clinics to help women in underserved regions of the world."

Krece Halligan, Faith High School

• Future Plans: South Dakota State University
• Anticipated Major: Electrical Engineering
• Career Goals: "I plan on studying electrical engineering at South Dakota State University, and following college I plan on either working in the engineering field or going back to the ranch to help my family run it."

Jacob Maxwell, Faith High School

• Future Plans: Brigham Young University
• Anticipated Major: Civil Engineering
• Scholarship Impact: "I would like to give a big thanks to both the Yeager and Afdahl families for their generosity. This scholarship will provide me a big start as I pursue further education."