Kendra Jentz of Bloomington, Wis. is the Pat Duffy/Duffy Grain Wisconsin Rural Opportunities Foundation, Inc. (WORF) Board Scholar award winner. She received a $1000 scholarship towards her education. Jentz was selected from over 300 applicants from rural Wisconsin.
Jentz, the daughter of Thomas and Julie Jentz, is a 2020 graduate of River Ridge High School. She is currently attending the University of Wisconsin-River Falls pursuing a degree in agricultural education. Jentz says “I chose this area of study because I want a career where I can make a difference in the lives of individuals and assist them in reaching their full potential. We need to develop a new generation of leaders in rural America, and I believe ag education is a way to develop those leaders.”
Although she lives in the small town of Bloomington, Jentz has been able to establish and grow her own herd of sheep on her grandfather’s farm. Additionally, she works on her uncle’s nearby farm and exhibits beef cattle from the farm at local shows. These experiences coupled with her education are vital steps in helping her achieve her dream career of being an extension agent. “This will allow me to further my outreach in Agriculture Education and those who are involved in it. I quote I heard from a Farm Bureau has always stuck with me since I’ve heard it, ‘Tell your story, because otherwise, someone else will tell it for you,’” says Jentz.
During her high school tenure, Jentz lists of activities and accolades is impressive. She has been active in 4-H and FFA serving in a number of officer positions. Also, she was also active in student council, forensics, meats judging, and volunteering. She has seen a number of successes in her judging career and skill contests.
The WROF is honored to announce the inaugural class of board scholars. Nine rural Wisconsin students were selected to receive a scholarship that is funded and supported by a board member of WROF.
“Duffy Grain is proud to be able to participate in the Wisconsin Rural opportunities Foundation Board Scholars program, promoting further education in Wisconsin,” stated board member Pat Duffy.
Since 1934, the Wisconsin Rural Opportunities Foundation, Inc. has invested in the education of people from rural Wisconsin so they, in turn, can transform and improve the economic health and quality of life in their rural areas. As a 501(c)(3) charitable foundation, more than 6000 individuals have received over $6.2 million in scholarships and grants in agricultural and rural health care education in over 30 different Wisconsin educational institutions and programs.
