MEEKER I Each year the Meeker Classic Memorial Scholarship is dedicated in honor and memory of exemplary individuals who have been involved with the Meeker Classic but have since passed away. This scholarship is awarded to a Meeker High School graduate who continues their education in a two year trade school, two year associate degree or a four year college. The award is made to a student in the second year of their studies. Applicants are awarded based on their community involvement and volunteer activities. The Meeker Classic wants to help build the next generation of volunteers and we believe this scholarship is a small step towards achieving that goal.
From this year’s lineup of highly qualified candidates, Morgan Neilson was chosen as the recipient of a $1,000 scholarship in memory of Randy Campbell. Neilson, now a sophomore at Oklahoma State University, is pursuing a degree in agricultural communication and animal science with a pre-law option. While maintaining a 3.84 GPA, Neilson finds time to participate on the OSU meat evaluation team, serve on numerous student government boards and as a student academic mentor for incoming freshman and transfers. At home in the summertime Neilson volunteers with the Meeker Classic and the 4-H program.
Neilson believes volunteering is what strengthens a community and provides great opportunities for individual and family growth. She has been a longtime 4-H and FFA member serving in leadership roles at the local, county and state level. Following in the footsteps of her parents, Neilson is an avid volunteer in the community — active in the Meeker Classic, church, civic and educational endeavors.
Neilson receives this scholarship in memory of Randy Campbell — a longtime friend and integral part of the Meeker Classic. Campbell was a familiar face at the Meeker Classic and with his wife Julie Hansmire, has provided 700-plus range yearlings from Campbell Hansmire Sheep Ranch to the trial since 2005.
Campbell and Hansmire have become an integral part of the Meeker Classic, helping with everything from hauling sheep, filling water tanks, lamb barbecues, set-out and to exhaust. Campbell’s quick wit and his zeal for life will be missed by handlers, trial organizers and spectators alike. His wife Julie and children Lynn and Clasy continue to run the ranch and provide sheep for the Meeker Classic.
