NEVADA COUNTY FAIRGROUNDS FOUNDATION AWARDS SCHOLARSHIPS TO THREE OUTSTANDING GRADUATING SENIORS

The Nevada County Fairgrounds Foundation is proud to announce the recipients of its 2026 Scholarship Program: Dakota Graham, Owen Mello, and James Strong. These exceptional graduating seniors have demonstrated dedication, leadership, and a strong commitment to their future careers while maintaining active involvement in the Nevada County Fair.

Applications were carefully reviewed and scored by the Foundation Scholarship Committee. Finalists then participated in interviews conducted by the Committee, who selected the scholarship recipients based on their achievements, goals, and commitment to agriculture and community involvement.

Dakota GrahamDakota Graham, a graduate of Bear River High School, has been a familiar face at the Nevada County Fair, exhibiting cattle for the past nine years. Her long-standing participation in the Fair reflects her deep commitment to agriculture and youth livestock programs.

Dakota plans to attend Sierra College for two years before transferring to Iowa State University. She intends to major in Agricultural Education with the goal of becoming an agricultural education teacher and helping shape the next generation of agricultural leaders.

Owen MelloOwen Mello was awarded the Nancy Garcia Memorial Scholarship which was developed by the friends and family of Nancy Garcia who was a great supporter of the Fairgrounds. Owen, a recent graduate of Nevada Union High School has developed a strong passion for agriculture through his years of involvement in FFA. His experiences have taught him the values of hard work, responsibility, and dedication. Outside of agriculture, Owen enjoys snowboarding, hunting, and fishing, activities that have strengthened his perseverance and appreciation for the outdoors.

This fall, Owen will attend Montana State University, where he plans to major in Agricultural Education. He hopes to pursue a career supporting and inspiring future generations involved in agriculture.

James StrongJames Strong is a graduate of Bear River High School. This fall, he will attend Montana State University City College, where he plans to major in Welding and Fabrication. James expressed his gratitude for receiving the scholarship and looks forward to building a career in the skilled trades.

“I am very grateful to be a recipient of this scholarship. Thank you!” said James.

Investing in the FutureThe Nevada County Fairgrounds Foundation Scholarship Program exists to support young people who have contributed to the fair and demonstrated a commitment to education, agriculture, and community involvement. The Foundation is grateful for the continued support of its members, whose generosity makes these scholarships possible.

We are proud to highlight three exceptional students who have been awarded this year's Nevada County Fairgrounds Foundation Scholarships. Each recipient brings unique talents, a strong work ethic, and a deep commitment to their communities. These young leaders reflect the strength, spirit, and promise of Nevada County.

Congratulations to Dakota, Owen, and James. We wish you all the best as you pursue your educational goals, careers, and life aspirations. We look forward to seeing the positive impact each of you will make in the years ahead.