The Mercer County Extension & 4-H Foundation has selected Kaelyn Boruff, Matthew Gray and Walter Franck to receive this year’s 4-H Memorial Scholarships.
Kaelyn Boruff received a $1,000 scholarship. She is the daughter of Bill and Stacey Boruff of New Boston, IL. She is a 10 year member of the Joy-Eliza Ag Club where she has held the offices of president, vice president, secretary, and reporter. She also participated in Mercer County 4-H Teen Federation, serving as secretary and president. Kaelyn’s 4-H project work included sheep, veterinary science, food nutrition, and visual arts. She graduates in May from Mercer County High School and plans to attend Kirkwood Community College to study in the Liberal Arts Science Program.
Matthew Gray received a $500 scholarship. He is the son Donald and Kathy Gray of Aledo, IL. He is a 10 year member of the Hamlet Handy-Helpers 4-H Club where his project work has included sheep, rabbits, cooking, gardening, beef, geology, and outdoor adventures. He has served as his club’s president, vice-president, and treasurer; and served as a member of the American Shropshire Registry Association. Matthew graduates in May from Mercer County High School and plans to attend Augustana College majoring in Engineering Physics while continuing his sports career in football and baseball.
Walter Franck received a $250 scholarship. He is the son of Wayne and Suerrette Franck of Aledo, IL. He is a 10 year member of the Kimel 4-H Club where he showed cattle for 9 years and did projects in tractors, small engine, and welding projects. After graduating from Sherrard High School in May, he plans to attend Iowa State University to study Agricultural Engineering.
The 4-H Memorial Scholarship was started in 2015 with funds from memorials made to honor Dylis McCutchan and Daniel McLaughlin. Each year memorial and scholarship donations are added to help build this fund.
For more information about the Mercer County Extension and 4-H Foundation contact University of Illinois Extension located at 910 13th Street, Viola, Ill. Office hours beginning June 1 are Tues – Thurs. 8 am – 4 pm (closed 12 – 12:30 pm) and the phone number 309-513-3100 (as of May 28). Tracy Fowler-Pestle, 4-H Program Coordinator, can connect you with one of the Foundation board members.