Young Nevadans who may be agricultural leaders in Nevada and even nationally were encouraged to seek a higher education in agriculture or associated fields when they were presented with educational awards (scholarships) at the late April annual meeting of the Nevada Agricultural Foundation (NAF) held in Reno.

Four Nye County students won awards: Sarah L. Gee, Beatty High School graduate attending the University of Nevada, Reno; William Kelly; and William and Joann Gee from Amargosa Valley.

Twenty-one of the students honored were from Nevada, either 2007 graduates of Nevada high schools, re-applications or carryover recipients. The total amount given was $41,500. This, along with $13,414 in grants, added up to $54,914 granted by NAF this year.

"We have seen many young recipients of our Educational Awards over the years find success in agricultural fields and other career choices," said outgoing NAF President Louis Test, Reno Attorney. "They have provided a cadre of youthful enthusiasm and leadership in growing food. We want to keep them interested and motivated."