Scholarships
2026 Scholarship Recipients
Carley Crist
Carley Crist, a senior at Beresford High School, is set to double major in Agriculture Business and Human Resources at Lake Area Technical College to become a people-first leader in the industry. Having grown up on a multigenerational farm managing row crops and a 200-head Boer goat operation, she possesses the hands-on experience necessary to run a successful operation. Her extensive leadership record includes serving as the Beresford FFA Chapter President, a District 3 FFA President, and a Senate Page in Pierre. Carley’s professional background is further distinguished by national honors in agricultural communications and her dedicated work providing individualized childcare. She aims to bridge the gap between producers and consumers by advocating for innovation, sustainability, and transparency. By combining her technical knowledge with a commitment to integrity and team-building, she hopes to shape the future of the industry from the front lines. Carley’s unique blend of work ethic and vision ensures she will be a great asset to the agriculture world.
Cienna Van Houten
Cienna Van Houten, a senior at Sibley-Ocheyedan High School, is a fourth-generation farmer with a deep-rooted passion for the agricultural industry. She plans to attend Minnesota West to major in production agriculture, with the long-term goal of expanding her family’s diverse operation of cattle, sheep, and hogs. Throughout her high school career, Cienna has demonstrated exceptional leadership as the Sibley-Ocheyedan FFA Secretary and the Osceola Youth County Council Treasurer. Her experience in the School-to-Career program has shaped her unique vision for the future, where she advocates for blending modern technological advancements with time-tested, traditional problem-solving techniques. Cienna is also a vocal advocate for the diverse career paths available within the industry, hoping to inspire others to find their place in ag beyond the farm. Her impressive list of accolades, including the 2023 Star Greenhand FFA Award, underscores her dedication to both her community and her craft. With her practical experience and forward-thinking leadership, Cienna will undoubtedly be a great asset to the ag world.
Colter Johnson
Colter Johnson, a senior at Centerville High School, is a standout leader with a deep-rooted passion for the land and livestock of rural South Dakota. Valedictorian of his class and Chapter President of the Centerville FFA, Colter has spent his life working alongside his family on their farm, eventually expanding his responsibilities to manage his own herd of 50 sheep. He plans to attend Lake Area Technical College this fall to major in Production Agriculture, where he will refine his skills in management practices like crop rotation and the use of genetic data to strengthen livestock herds. Beyond the farm, Colter is a multi-talented individual involved in National Honor Society, track, band, and his church, always seeking ways to serve through initiatives like "Feed the Farmer" and educational outreach for local students. He believes the future of farming lies in the harmony of time-tested traditions and cutting-edge technology, such as precision planting and drones. Colter’s unique combination of humility, academic excellence, and a "boots-on-the-ground" work ethic ensures he will be a phenomenal asset to the ever-evolving world of agriculture.
Eli Harmon
Eli Harmon, a dedicated senior at Spencer High School, is this year’s scholarship spotlight recipient. Raised on a diverse family farm south of Everly, Eli has spent his life working with corn, soybeans, cattle, and hogs, eventually rising to become his father’s primary assistant. His deep-rooted passion for the land is matched by his extensive leadership, serving as 4H President, FFA Sentinel, and the 2025 Clay County Beef Ambassador. Beyond the field, Eli is a multisport athlete and a committed community volunteer who helped serve meals through the local Cattlemen and Pork Producers following the 2024 floods. This fall, he will attend South Dakota State University to major in agricultural science and minor in agronomy, aiming for a career in ag sales that will allow him to eventually expand his family’s farming legacy in rural Iowa. Eli recognizes that the future of farming lies in the intersection of technology and efficiency, and he is eager to use his education to help the industry produce more with fewer resources. With his hands-on experience, community spirit, and forward-thinking mindset, Eli is sure to be an incredible asset to the ever-evolving world of agriculture.
Izabella Klein
Izabella Klein, a senior at Sioux Center High School, is a dedicated advocate for the future of agriculture with a lifelong foundation in the industry. Raised on a local farm, Izabella has gained comprehensive experience caring for swine, poultry, equine, and dairy heifers, and she has spent the last two years working hands-on at a dairy farm. Her impressive FFA journey includes serving as Chapter Secretary and competing at the national level in Meats and Food Science, alongside an internship at the Sioux Center Veterinary Clinic. This fall, she will attend South Dakota State University to major in Animal Science, where she plans to explore her interests in embryology and veterinary assistance. Izabella is particularly passionate about the evolution of agricultural technology and the vital role the dairy and beef industries play in the American dream. With her deep-rooted work ethic, proven leadership in community service, and extensive technical knowledge, Izabella will undoubtedly be a phenomenal asset to the agricultural world.
Jaxon Pedley
Jaxon Pedley, a senior at Sibley-Ocheyedan High School, is a dedicated leader for the future of agriculture. Growing up on a fourth-generation family dairy farm, Jaxon has mastered everything from daily herd management to the technical precision of feed lab analysis. His impressive leadership as FFA Chapter Vice President and 4-H County Council President proves his commitment to the rural communities he plans to serve. Jaxon will continue his education at Minnesota West, focusing on animal nutrition and ag business to eventually help Northwest Iowa producers optimize livestock health and performance. Between his academic honors and his "all-in" attitude on the football field, he has consistently demonstrated the perseverance required to thrive in a changing industry. He believes that the success of the industry lies in bridging the gap between traditional values and modern innovation to keep local farms strong. His deep-rooted values and hands-on expertise ensure that Jaxon will be a great asset to the ag world.
Karlee Vander Hamm
Karlee Vander Hamm, a senior at West Sioux High School, is a dedicated leader who grew up on a family farm raising corn, soybeans, and hogs. Her extensive involvement in FFA has earned her Chapter and State degrees, as well as the prestigious role of Northwest District Reporter for Iowa FFA. This fall, Karlee will attend Iowa State University to major in Agriculture and Life Sciences Education with plans to become a high school Ag teacher and FFA advisor. She is passionate about using leadership to build a sustainable and accessible industry, focusing on reducing food waste and improving distribution. Beyond the farm and classroom, she has balanced a diverse range of activities including theater, National Honor Society, and dance. Karlee has already demonstrated her commitment to the industry by facilitating statewide conferences and advocating for agricultural literacy. With her hands-on roots and a passion for mentorship, Karlee is ready to cultivate the next generation of leaders as a truly remarkable asset to the ag world.
Marnie Croatt
Marnie Croatt, a senior at MOC-Floyd Valley High School, grew up on her family’s farm, where her early experiences with livestock and row crops fueled a lifelong passion for agriculture. This fall, she will head to South Dakota State University to major in agricultural science, bringing with her a first-place state finish in Parliamentary Procedures and top honors in floral management. As a dedicated FFA Treasurer and committee chair, Marnie has already proven her ability to lead and organize at a high level. Her well-rounded background includes everything from raising show goats to earning her Iowa Seal of Biliteracy in Spanish. Marnie is committed to the future of the industry, focusing on how sustainability and new technology can improve global food systems. With her unique blend of technical expertise and a “neighborly” leadership style, she is prepared to tackle the evolving challenges of the field. Marnie’s drive and hands-on experience ensure she will be a vital force in shaping the next generation of agriculture.