GLENBEULAH, Wis. — Sheboygan River Progressive Farmers, a farmer-led watershed conservation group, has awarded three scholarships to local students.
Brianna Breunig, Ashton Haack and Alisha Klemme will each receive $500 to continue their education at a college in an agriculture-related or environmental science degree.
Breunig, the daughter of Mark and Mary Breunig of Sheboygan Falls is a 2019 graduate of Oostburg High School and is attending the University of Wisconsin-River Falls. She is majoring in animal science with an emphasis in animal companionship. Her minor is chemistry.
“I am honored to receive this scholarship and know that the SRPF is supporting the future of farming in Sheboygan County,” Breunig said. “As I learn more about conservation, I’ve become increasingly aware of the importance of sustainable practices in my fields of study. SRPF has given me the opportunity to acquire knowledge and share new ideas with the community. As the demand for agriculture continues to increase, I feel it is important for farmers to utilize new technology and farming practices to do their best to conserve land for future generations.”
Breunig was involved in dozens of clubs, activities and community service events while in high school. She received six 4-H awards and has been on the UWRF Dean’s List three times.
Haack, the son of Tom and Heidi Haack of Sheboygan Falls is a recent graduate of Plymouth High School. He will attend the University of Wisconsin-River Falls in the fall and major in agricultural engineering.
“Receiving this scholarship means a lot to me,” Haack said. “I have worked hard all year to receive this and I appreciate the help financially toward my career in agricultural engineering. My career goal in agriculture is to focus on farmer-led conservation efforts. I want to help solve problems concerning pollution and environmental issues. I believe that my connection with SRPF will help me understand the needs of the industry and where I can have the biggest impact on the efficiency of agricultural production systems.”
Haack won first place in the Wisconsin State Fair and Sheboygan County Fair in dairy showmanship. He was an Honor Roll student, 11-year member of the 4-H Club and four-time champion archer.
Klemme, the daughter of Scott and Michelle Klemme of Plymouth is a recent graduate of Plymouth High School. She will attend the University of Minnesota in the fall and major in animal science and minor in business and Spanish.
“Receiving this scholarship means that I will have a way to help with the cost of my college tuition. Thank you, SRPF,” Klemme said. “It is important to be associated with SRPF because they help ensure that farmers are growing crops sustainably and in healthy soil. As someone who raises beef cattle, I use high-quality feed to help grow my animals to their fullest potential. If I do not have the highest quality feed, my animals are not going to grow and I will not be able to provide a product for my family and clients.”
Klemme was president of the Willing Workers 4-H Club, a member of the National Honor Society and Future Business Leaders of America, and varsity swimmer and track student athlete. She was involved in nearly two dozen community service projects, including Meals on Wheels.
SRPF offers scholarships to encourage young people to continue their education in agriculture, Joe Wagner, board president, said.
“These three students have a bright future ahead of them in agriculture. They see the value and importance of conservation practices and protecting our soil and water,” he said.
— Sheboygan River Progressive Farmers
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