Five young Ohio sheep farmers awarded 2024 OSIA scholarships

By Andi Anderson

The Ohio Sheep Improvement Association (OSIA) has awarded scholarships to five young sheep farmers from across Ohio, recognizing their commitment to agriculture and academic excellence.

The recipients were selected based on their achievements and contributions to the sheep farming community.

Clay Schoen, from Ashland County, received the prestigious Dr. Jack Judy Memorial Scholarship, valued at $2,500. Schoen is currently pursuing graduate studies at South Dakota State University.

Clay Johnson, a senior at The Ohio State University from Wayne County, was awarded the $1,500 Ralph Grimshaw Memorial Scholarship for his outstanding dedication to sheep farming.

Emily Stevens, a junior at Kansas State University from Huron County, will receive the $1,000 High Family Memorial Scholarship, now in its fourth year.

Madison Feehan, a sophomore at Bowling Green State University from Wood County, earned the $1,500 OSIA LEAD Council Scholarship, which supports students actively involved in sheep farming.

Additionally, Avery Shoffner from Shelby County was named the 2024-2025 Ohio Lamb and Wool Ambassador. As part of her role, she will receive a scholarship stipend at the conclusion of her term at the 2025 Ohio State Fair.

The scholarships are sponsored by OSIA in partnership with the Ohio Farm Bureau Foundation. Funding comes from various sources, including the Buckeye Shepherd’s Symposium Silent Auction, private donations, and other fundraising activities.

The OSIA LEAD Council supports its scholarship programs through Ohio State Fair programs and additional fundraising efforts.

The scholarship recipients will be recognized at the OSIA LEAD Banquet on November 2, 2024, and the Buckeye Shepherd’s Symposium Awards on December 7, 2024.

These events highlight the contributions of young leaders in Ohio’s sheep farming industry and support their continued success.

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