$500 scholarships awarded to seniors

McCOOK, Neb. — Three high school seniors in the Bit and Spur 4-H Club were awarded $500 scholarships given in memory of the Darla Ruppert and Dave Ruppert Family.

Darla was a long-time 4-H leader for the the horse club.

Scholarship recipients are Ava Peterson, Tucker Gillespie and Kylee Mclain.

Kylee McLain: 

Kylee McLain is 2022 graduate from Hitchcock County High School.  She plans to attend McCook Community College and get a degree in Ag Business, with the possibility of transferring to further her degree.  She loves to spend time outdoors and with her friends, and she is  a very hard worker!  She currently works as a waitress and a dog groomer, and she spends all the free time she can get enjoying what she loves most: riding her horses! 4-H has made her a good rider and has given her countless opportunities and experiences. She can’t wait to see where life takes her. 

Tucker Gillespie:

Tucker Gillespie, son of Joe and Julie Gillespie of McCook, is a graduating senior from McCook High School. Tucker is a four year merit roll student Involved in cross country, speech team, thespians, Youth Change Reaction, Math Club, Quiz Bowl, FFA, and mock trial. Tucker has served as class president for the last four years and held various offices in his other clubs. He competes in Nebraska High School Rodeo as well as National Reined Cowhorse and 4-H horse shows throughout the year. Tucker plans to attend an accredited four-year university to further his education.

Ava Grace Petersen

Ava Grace Petersen is the daughter of Mike and Joni Petersen. She attends Dundy County Stratton High School. Ava is involved in varsity volleyball and basketball and a 10 year member of both the Freedom Go Getters and Bit N Spur 4-H Clubs.  Ava is also a member of the NBHA and the Heartland Saddle Club. Ava has been accepted into the Nebraska College of Technical Agricultural where she plans to study Equine Veterinary Technology and Animal Genetics.  She will also be a member of the NCTA Rodeo Team.