Alaina Gebel awarded endowed 4-H Scholarship from Iowa 4-H Foundation

Alaina Gebel of Allamakee County was awarded the Campbell Determan Endowed 4-H Scholarship through the Iowa 4-H Foundation at a recognition ceremony held Sunday, April 26 in Ames.

One hundred and twenty-seven Iowa 4-H scholarships valued at over $155,000 were awarded as a part of the Foundation’s scholarship recognition ceremony. Over 450 applications were submitted, and scholarships have been awarded to recipients from 60 counties across the state of Iowa.

Alaina Gebel of Allamakee County is attending Iowa State University to study Agricultural and Life Sciences Education and Global Resource Systems, inspired by the passion for agriculture and teaching she developed through ten years in 4‑H. Her experiences showing sheep, swine, goats, and dairy cattle taught her resilience, responsibility, and the value of preparation, while leadership roles at the county and state levels strengthened her communication and teamwork skills. Opportunities such as State 4‑H Council and National 4‑H Congress helped her build confidence, broaden her worldview, and discover her interest in global agricultural education.

Reflecting on her journey, she shared, “A trophy is won at home,” a lesson that shaped her belief in hard work and preparation. Gebel plans to pursue a career supporting youth and women in agriculture around the world, continuing the legacy of mentorship and community she found in 4‑H.

“Iowa 4-H Foundation scholarships acknowledge the hard work and dedication of young people. Their time in 4-H has helped them to become beyond ready for whatever is next for them,” said Emily Saveraid, Executive Director of the Iowa 4-H Foundation. “These scholarships are a result of the generosity of donors from across the country who believe in the future of Iowa 4-H’ers.”

Provided by the endowment established by the Determan Family, the Campbell Determan Endowed 4-H Scholarship  is for an upperclassman that is attending a land grant university and has earned at least 60 credit hours.

Applicants must be pursuing a degree in an agriculture or hospitality management field of study and have earned a grade point average (GPA) of 3.0 or higher. Preference is given to applicants who demonstrate state 4-H activities and campus level activities while in college.

The Iowa 4-H Foundation is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization. Find more information at www.iowa4hfoundation.org.