Winners Announced For Knierim Scholarships
The Knierim Scholarships had an overwhelming response when brought to the internet this year and had exceptional candidates for the awards. Among those receiving scholarships for the next school year are Iris McKeon of Glasgow, Montaya Idler of Hinsdale, Kylee Kleppen of Plentywood and ShaAnn Danelson of Scobey. The scholarships were established in memory of Dr. FM Knierim and his wife, Bernice, former residents of Valley County and a physician who was chief of staff at FMDH for 40 years.
Montaya Idler, daughter of Sherri and Ky Idler of Hinsdale, is a third-year student transferring to Minot State University to become a radiology technician. She credits her many years in 4-H and FFA with developing the teamwork skills and leadership that have brought her to this point in her life. Idler is working at FMDH this summer as an intern before returning to her college classes. Her goal is to earn her degree and return to a rural community to ensure her dream of helping others in their own health journey.
Iris McKean, daughter of Lih An and Andrew McKean, is returning for her third year at Montana State University in Missoula in wildlife biology and pre-veterinary science. As an elite runner, she competes year round for the university in cross country and indoor and outdoor track and field. She maintains exceptional grades at the same time as her athletic commitments, so time management and organizational skills are her calling card. She said, “I’ve been fortunate to contribute to and make a positive impact on the Glasgow and Missoula communities, and I’ve felt the unwavering support of the people around me.”
ShaAnn Danelson of Scobey graduated from Montana State University - Northern and will pursue a degree in physical therapy at the University of Montana. She credits her mother, LeeAnn, as being a guiding star for her as she excelled in her undergraduate studies and played basketball at a college level. It was a sports injury and the time spent in physical therapy that inspired her to pursue this training. She is a native American and wants to serve both rural Montana and the reservations after her graduation.
Kylee Kleppen, a junior at Dickinson State University, has outstanding work history and community service while pursuing her degree and eventually going into physical therapy. She played high school sports and had a career ending injury where she underwent two surgeries to repair the tears in her shoulders. She is working in the Sheridan Memorial Hospital this summer before returning to college.
