By Scout Nelson
South Dakota Farm Bureau selected eight students to receive scholarships supporting their education during the 2026-27 academic year. The scholarships recognize students who demonstrate strong leadership, academic success, and commitment to agriculture and rural communities.
The scholarships were awarded to high school seniors and current college students planning to attend post-secondary institutions. Applicants qualified for either agriculture-focused or community-focused scholarships depending on their field of study and involvement in agriculture.
“South Dakota Farm Bureau is proud to recognize young people that have a passion for agriculture and their rural communities,” said Krystil Smit. “It is our privilege to support these students in their educational pursuits, and we wish them continued success.”
The South Dakota Farm Bureau Scholarship Fund was created in 2005 by Richard and Agnes Ekstrum of Kimball, South Dakota. Richard Ekstrum previously served as president of South Dakota Farm Bureau for twenty years.
Agriculture Focus Scholarship winners included Luke Guthmiller of Scotland and Austan Kjerstad of Wall. Both students plan to attend South Dakota State University and major in Agricultural Business.
Community Focus Scholarship recipients represented several South Dakota communities and career interests. Addyson Baruth plans to study Psychology and Special Education at Northern State University. Katelyn Gebhart and Dagen Mutchler will pursue Nursing degrees at South Dakota State University. Reagan Koskan plans to study Mechanical Engineering at Dordt University. Louis Rancour is pursuing Metallurgical Engineering at South Dakota School of Mines and Technology. Ella Vandersnick plans to study Early Childhood Education at South Dakota State University.
The scholarship program continues supporting students interested in agriculture, healthcare, engineering, education, and rural community leadership. South Dakota Farm Bureau leaders said these scholarships help encourage future professionals who will contribute to their communities and strengthen the future of South Dakota industries and agriculture.
Photo Credit: south-dakota-farm-bureau
Categories: South Dakota, Education