Scholarship and Grant Recipients

Keegan Mertens graduated from Connell High School, earned a $2,500 scholarship from the Benton Franklin Fair. He enjoys hunting, fishing, sports and working outdoors. Keegan participated in multiple high school sports including football, baseball, & wrestling. He is also an active member of FFA and has competed in many competitions such as ag sales, agronomy, and metal art. Keegan’s passion for agriculture began through working with livestock for 4-H & FFA fair projects, employment for local farmers, and assisting his dad with his spray business. His agricultural background has inspired him to pursue a career in agronomy.

Keegan is planning to attend WSU this fall to obtain a degree in Agriculture Technology & Management while participating in the Air Force ROTC program. He plans to fulfill his commitments in the United State Air Force as an officer and then pursue a career in the agronomy field.

Taryn Rhoads graduated as the valedictorian of Chiawana High School while simultaneously earning an Associate’s Degree from Columbia Basin College through the Running Start program. Ranked #1 in her class and an Honor Society member, Taryn has also earned a $2,500 scholarship from the Benton Franklin Fair.

This fall, Taryn will attend Brigham Young University, where she plans to major in Political Science before pursuing law school with the goal of becoming a defense attorney.

A dedicated 4-H member for more than eleven years, Taryn currently serves as President of the Barnyard Kids 4-H Club. Through 4-H, Taryn has learned much more than just the anatomy of a hog and how to train it - she has gained valuable lessons in hard work, consistency, self-motivation, and financial management.

GALE Grant

The Benton Franklin Fair is proud to announce the 2025 recipients of the GALE (Growing Agriculture Leaders and Educators) Grant, now in its second year. This year, five first-time animal exhibitors have been awarded a total of $5,500 to support their livestock projects. Congratulations to Brody Lechelt (13, Kennewick), Daniel Brewer (15, Kennewick), Lillian Ramirez (9, Pasco), Francesca Para (9, Benton City), and Tanner Brewer (16, Kennewick), all of whom will be showing swine. The GALE Grant encourages youth from Benton and Franklin Counties, or the Burbank School District, to take their first steps into agriculture through participation in 4-H, FFA, or Grange. These young exhibitors will complete monthly reports and share their experiences at the Fair this August, all leading to a final recap due in September. We're excited to support these future ag leaders as they grow their skills and create lasting memories in the show ring.

Scholarship & Grant Recipients

GALE Grant

Brody Lechelt

Daniel Brewer

Lillian Ramirez

Francesca Para

Tanner Brewer