The National Wild Turkey Federation announces Melissa Jech of Rushville, Nebraska, as the recipient of the 2015 National Scholarship sponsored by Mossy Oak.
The $10,000 scholarship will help Jech further her education as she plans to enroll at Chadron State in the fall.
“I was excited to learn the National Wild Turkey Federation selected me for this scholarship. It came as a complete surprise,” said Jech. “I plan to major in rangeland management so I can build upon what I already know about ranching and how it affects wildlife and the surrounding habitat.”
Jech recently graduated at the top of her high school class despite a rigorous academic course load and a schedule packed with extracurricular activities. Her impressive résumé of school and extra-curricular activities includes:
- National Honor Society
- National FFA
- Sheridan County 4-H Shooting Sports
- American Legion Junior Auxiliary
- Sheridan County Generations Involved in Volunteer Efforts
- Certified Wildland Firefighter
She received a scholarship through the Northwest Nebraska NWTF Chapter and also through the state NWTF chapter, making her eligible for the national honor. To date, the NWTF has contributed more than $4.6 million in scholarships to students making up the next generation of hunters and conservationists.
“Individuals like Melissa are the ones who will ensure that our wildlife is healthy and future hunting opportunities are secure for generations to come,” said George Thornton, NWTF CEO. “Students pursuing degrees and careers in wildlife and habitat conservation will always have the NWTF in their corner.”
In addition to the scholarship, Jech and her parents will be guests of NWTF at its national convention in Nashville, Tennessee, Thursday through Sunday.
She will make an appearance in the Family Adventure Village and receive her scholarship award Friday.
For information about the NWTF scholarship program or to download an application, visit www.nwtf.org/resource-library.
