MEEKER | Each year the “Meeker Classic Memorial Scholarship” is dedicated in honor and memory of exemplary individuals that have been involved with the Meeker Classic, but have now passed away. The recipient of the 2023 Meeker Classic Scholarship is awarded the scholarship in 2024 – the scholarship is in honor of Ellen Nieslanik, Past Director of the Meeker Classic, Handler, shepherd, dog trainer, wife, mother, friend and more. Next year’s recipient will receive the scholarship in Honor of Pat and Ila Sturgeon. Our rich heritage in Meeker is the result of hard work, dedication and belief in community by the likes of fine people that give their time and support to the Meeker Classic.
The Meeker Classic Scholarship is awarded to Meeker High School graduates that continue their education in a two-year trade school, two-year associate degree or four-year college or university. The award is made to students in the second year of their studies.
The Meeker Classic Scholarship Committee reviewed applications from a full roster of highly qualified individuals. Meeker should be proud of these young people that represent our future. Three recipients were selected this year. Recipients are awarded based on their community involvement and volunteer activities. The Meeker Classic wants to help build the next generation of volunteers, and believes this scholarship is a small step towards achieving that goal.
We are happy to introduce the 2023 Meeker Classic Scholarship Recipient – Grace Roberts. Grace is awarded this scholarship in Memory of Ellen Nieslanik, past Director of the Meeker Classic, an avid shepherd and champion of the Meeker Classic Scholarship program. Grace actually spent multiple years volunteering with Ellen for the Jammin’ Lamb Fest.
Grace began volunteering for the Meeker Classic when she was 4 years old. Jumping in with her family as they volunteered, she has picked up trash, sold programs, set up the event and has been wiling to do anything to help out over the past fourteen years. During those years she’s made lasting friendships and gained valuable experience that will guide her on her steps forward. Many a handler, vendor and demonstrator have made acquaintances with Grace. Participating in the Dog Agility program ranks as one of her fondest memories of the Meeker Classic.
Grace believes that volunteering creates synergy within the community, and the work benefits society by strengthening social bonds, meeting pressing needs and encouraging individual development. Says Grace about volunteering at the Meeker Classic, “I cannot tell
you how much I love it. It has truly taught me the passion for giving as well as the happiness it brings when people come together to accomplish a common goal. It has brought my family closer as a whole when we all go out together to work.”
She is now studying Landscape Architecture at Colorado State University. She hopes to work within a land management agency to design beautiful places for families to go to get away and create special memories while maintaining the naturalness of these places.
Grace leaves her mark in all that she does. Giving to those around her has become second nature. We congratulate Grace on her accomplishments and wish her well in all her endeavors as she follows her dreams. She is sure to make a difference in the world.
