2026 Jenny Lynn Stiles- Hudson Memorial Scholarship Recipients

Darrin Vander Meulen

Grandview, Washington

Year in School: Freshman

School Attending: Dordt University

Major: Agriculture Technology

My name is Darrin Vander Meulen, and I recently graduated from Sunnyside Christian High School. In the fall I will be a freshman at Dordt University and major in Agricultural Technology with an emphasis in Farm Operations and Management. I am excited for the hands-on classes and internships I will need to fulfill this major. This experience will prepare me to come back to the farm someday. 

The beef industry has been part of my life for as long as I can remember. Growing up on my family's dairy and beef farm, I have worked my way up from feeding calves as a young child to operating equipment during harvest. Caring for calves has taught me responsibility, patience, and the importance of proper animal care. My involvement extends beyond our farm as well. At eight years old, I joined 4-H, where I showed cattle and pigs. Through 4-H and later FFA, I gained valuable experience in livestock management, record keeping, public speaking, and leadership. I have also competed in numerous FFA contests that strengthened my critical thinking skills and broadened my understanding of the agricultural industry. 

Today, I remain actively involved in our family farm by helping care for our calves and livestock, operating equipment, and assisting with the daily responsibilities that come with running a successful agricultural operation. These experiences have confirmed my passion for agriculture and my desire to build a lifelong career in the beef industry. 

Lexi Amundson

Ferndale, Washington

Year in School: Freshman

College Attending: Washington State University 

Major: Agriculture Marketing and Business 

My name is Lexi Amundson, and I am a graduating senior at Meridian High School in Ferndale, Washington. In the fall, I will attend Washington State University, pursuing a degree in Agricultural Marketing and Business. Agriculture is significant in my life because I was raised on a family beef operation and have developed my own Boer goat breeding program, both of which have shaped my work ethic, values, and long-term commitment to the livestock industry. 

I have been involved in the livestock industry at all levels, from county fairs to national competition, exhibiting beef, swine, sheep, and goats through both 4-H and FFA. These experiences have strengthened my passion for animal agriculture and my desire to remain involved beyond my own personal projects. I also value the opportunity to support and mentor younger exhibitors by providing quality livestock and guidance throughout their projects. 

Upon graduation, I plan to contribute to the agricultural industry by combining my background in livestock production with my education in agricultural marketing and business to help producers strengthen their operations, access markets, and promote their products effectively. I am excited to attend Washington State University because it will provide the education, connections, and opportunities necessary to achieve these goals while allowing me to continue giving back to the livestock community that has played such an important role in shaping who I am. 

This scholarship is important to me because it will help support my education and reduce the financial burden of attending college, allowing me to focus more fully on my academic and professional development in agriculture.