Eric Keller is pictured receiving the Mahr Family 4-H Scholarship at a July ceremony held at Iowa State University. The scholarship grades applicants on their leadership and display of community service.

Eric Keller, Tama County was awarded the Mahr Family College of Agriculture and Life Sciences 4-H Scholarship through the Iowa 4-H Foundation at the recognition ceremony Sunday, July 11 in Ames. The scholarship was made in the amount of $4,000.

Over 85 Iowa 4-H scholarships valued at over $127,000 were awarded as a part of the Foundation’s scholarship recognition ceremony on Sunday, July 11 in the Scheman Building at Iowa State University. Over 300 applications were submitted and scholarships have been awarded to recipients from 49 counties across the state of Iowa with a wide variety of 4-H experiences.

Eric Keller is the son of Ryan and Melissa Keller. Keller is attending Iowa State University to study animal science. He credits 4-H with helping him identify his passion for animal science through both exhibiting livestock and participating in related project areas. Through 4-H, Keller has gained the ability to communicate effectively, serve others and act as a leader as he pursues his degree.

“4-H taught me to establish goals and to work hard to achieve those goals,” said Keller. “The skills I learned through 4-H helped me to become a better person, and care more about others. I am very thankful that there is a program like 4-H that gives youth these opportunities like the ones I have had.”

“Iowa 4-H Foundation scholarships acknowledge the hard work and dedication of young people who have used their 4-H skills and experiences to ‘make the best better’ for others,” said Emily Saveraid, Executive Director of the Iowa 4-H Foundation. “We also are thankful for the many scholarship donors who fund these important opportunities for Iowa 4-H’ers.”

The family of Marvin, Sr. and Frederica Mahr provide this scholarship to a student who has five or more years of 4-H membership and shows evidence of community service and leadership participation. The final selection is based on an interview and the applicants must submit a separate activity plan for a leadership/community service activity to be implemented during the upcoming academic year. (An additional $500 grant may be available for training and project costs.) The student must attend ISU and they must have a major within Iowa State’s College of Agriculture and Life Sciences.