DES MOINES — Iowa College Aid announced Macy Evans, Elizabeth Smith and Hannah Dagel are recipients of the 2017 Gov. Terry E. Branstad Iowa State Fair Scholarship. This scholarship recognizes outstanding Iowa high school seniors who have actively participated in the Iowa State Fair and plan to attend an Iowa college or university.
Macy Evans is a graduate of Creston Community High School and will attend Iowa State University in Ames. In her scholarship application, Macy related her experience with osteochondromas, a condition that causes benign bone tumors. She exhibited at the fair last year wearing a walking boot after major reconstructive surgery on her foot.
“The Iowa State Fair gave me a new-found confidence,” Evans wrote. “I was able to prove to myself and those around me that my bone condition does not mean I am not capable.”
Elizabeth Smith is a graduate of Decorah High School and will attend Iowa State University. Elizabeth’s application described the joy and sense of accomplishment in exhibiting a calf at the Iowa State Fair, even as she watched another competitor win the championship.
“I was not there to win, I was there for the memories,” Smith wrote.
Hannah Dagel is a graduate of home schooling and will attend Dordt College in Sioux Center. Hannah’s application characterized the three key qualities of the Iowa State Fair: achievement, discovery and hope.
“So many young adults (myself included) are aspiring to rise up to the responsibilities that lie ahead,” Dagel wrote. “We will be the next inventors, farmers, doctors, educators and soldiers.”
“These three young women truly represent the future of Iowa,” said Karen Misjak, executive director of Iowa College Aid, the state agency that administers the scholarship. “Whether pushing past obstacles or looking ahead to becoming the leaders in our communities, they all credit the Iowa State Fair with helping to shape their exceptional character. We’re pleased to recognize their accomplishments.”
This year’s three winners will receive their awards during the Iowa State Fair. Each will be presented a certificate of recognition by Gov. Kim Reynolds 7 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 12, on the Anne and Bill Riley Stage.
Iowa College Aid will also exhibit in the Varied Industries Building at the fair. Free publications will be available, and prizes will be given to fairgoers who participate in an interactive display. Iowa College Aid staff will be on hand to answer questions about preparing and applying for college, obtaining financial aid and succeeding in college.