Meet the 2026 Hempel scholarship recipients

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 is 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 and National Honor Society, Kinzie has consistently looked for ways to make a difference in her community. Whether packing food bags for local students, serving meals or supporting fundraising efforts, she is 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 of becoming an attorney. Her interest in law comes from both lifelong curiosity and a desire to help people navigate difficult situations with compassion and integrity.

Kinzie’s story is a reminder that leadership does not always look loud. Sometimes it looks like showing up, staying involved and continuing to push yourself toward something bigger.

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 has 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 is possible

The Hempel Scholarship reflects something bigger than financial support. It is about believing in young people before they fully step into who they are 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 can support future scholarships and invest in what is possible through the Snow-Redfern Foundation.