WAKEENEY — Western Cooperative Electric is proud to announce the recipients of its 2026 Youth Scholarship Program. These scholarships reflect the cooperative’s ongoing commitment to supporting the educational goals of local students and investing in the future of rural Kansas.

The Western Cooperative Electric Board of Trustees approved three $1,000 scholarships and the $250 Darrell Brown Memorial Scholarship for the 2026-2027 academic year. A total of 38 students applied for this year’s scholarship program, making the selection process highly competitive.

The 2026 scholarship recipients are:

Mary (Lizzy) Vajnar – Hays High School

Grace Smith – Otis-Bison High School

Nicholas Robben – Hoxie High School

Luke Zerr – Wheatland High School

“Each year, we are inspired by the outstanding young people who apply for our scholarship program,” said Christina Hayes, Member Services Manager at Western Cooperative Electric. “These students have demonstrated academic achievement, leadership, community involvement, and a commitment to making a positive impact. We are proud to support them as they continue their education and pursue their goals.”

The Darrell Brown Memorial Scholarship honors the legacy of Darrell Brown, a dedicated member of the Western Cooperative Electric family whose commitment to service and community continues to inspire future generations.

Western Cooperative Electric’s Scholarship Program is designed to encourage and support students as they prepare for college and future careers. Through scholarship opportunities and youth leadership programs, the cooperative remains committed to developing the next generation of leaders within the communities it serves.

For more information about Western Cooperative Electric’s scholarship and youth programs, visit Western Cooperative Electric Scholarship Program or email the Member Services Manager at chayes@westerncoop.com