Meet the 2026 Hempel Scholarship Recipients
May 13, 2026
The future of rural Nebraska is being shaped by young people who are already stepping up, leading and giving back to their communities.
This year’s recipients of the Edward M. & Eda S. Hempel Memorial Scholarship are doing exactly that—pursuing big goals while staying deeply connected to the people and places that helped shape them. Through the generosity of the Hempel family, this scholarship continues a legacy of believing in young people and investing in what’s possible for their futures.
Kinzie Bridge: Leading with Purpose
Kinzie Bridge of Alliance has spent her high school years balancing academics, leadership and service—often all at once.
From serving as president of multiple student organizations to volunteering through FBLA andNational Honor Society, Kinzie has consistently looked for ways to make a difference in hercommunity. Whether packing food bags for local students, serving mealsor supportingfundraising efforts, she’s someone who quietly turns commitment into action.
This fall, Kinzie plans to study criminology and criminal justice on a pre-law track, with the goal ofbecoming an attorney. Her interest in law comes from both lifelong curiosity and a desire to helppeople navigate difficult situations with compassion and integrity.
Kinzie’s story is a reminder that leadership doesn’t always look loud. Sometimes it looks likeshowing up, staying involved and continuing to push yourself toward something bigger.Ryan Ragsdale: Taking FlightFor Ryan Ragsdale of Hemingford, ambition has always come with action.
Ryan Ragsdale: Taking Flight
For Ryan Ragsdale of Hemingford, ambition has always come with action.
Alongside extracurricular activities and community involvement, Ryan built his own lawn care business and has already achieved one milestone many people only dream about—completing his first solo flight.
That experience helped solidify his goal of becoming a pilot and strengthened the confidence he carries into every challenge ahead.
Ryan has also dedicated countless hours to serving his community, from Veterans Day flag placement and food drives to youth sports, church suppers and local events. Through those experiences, he’s discovered that leadership often starts with simply stepping forward and helping where needed.
This fall, Ryan plans to attend the University of Nebraska at Omaha to study aviation and continue working toward a career as an airline pilot.
Investing in What’s Possible
The Hempel Scholarship reflects something bigger than financial support. It’s about believing inyoung people before they fully step into who they’re becoming.
At Snow-Redfern Foundation, we believe elevating youth power means trusting young people with opportunities, leadership and the chance to shape their own futures. Scholarships like this help open doors—not only for students, but for the communities that will benefit from their talents, ideas and service in the years ahead.
Want to help create more opportunities for young people across Nebraska? Learn how you cansupport future scholarships and invest in what’s possible through the Snow-Redfern Foundation.