This year 3 scholarships were given to Barry County graduating seniors pursuing post-secondary opportunities. The students receiving these scholarships have shown dedication to the Barry County 4-H program. 4-H is a U.S.-based network of youth organizations whose mission is “engaging youth to reach their fullest potential while advancing the field of youth development.” Today 4-H offers a diverse range of topics and interest areas. 4-H is also the largest youth development organization in Michigan.
Annemarie Allerding of Hastings High School received both the Gordon and Carolyn Worth Scholarship and the Jane Morris 4-H Scholarship. Annemarie has participated in Barry County 4-H since 2021, where she raised several livestock projects in both the swine and dairy feeder concentrations. Additionally, Annemarie has been a dedicated member of Hastings FFA since her freshman year and served as the chapter president. In the spring of 2025, Annemarie also helped launch the Hastings Chapter of the Fellowship of Christian Athletes and continues to serve on its leadership board. She will be attending Cornerstone University this fall, pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Nursing.
Carisa Rosenberger of Hastings Area Schools received the Travis Wenger 4-H Scholarship. Carisa has participated in Barry County 4-H raising and showing cattle, an experience she credits with shaping her sense of responsibility and confidence. Carisa has also been active in her community through YAC, Interact, FFA, FCA, Student Council, and NHS. She will be attending Michigan State University this fall, pursuing Kinesiology.
“The Barry Community Foundation and the Thornapple Area Enrichment Foundation along with their donors are very proud to support students who participate in our county’s 4-H program. Barry County 4-H has had a rich history and instills the type of dedication, leadership, and engagement skills that our youth need to be successful,” said Annie Halle, Chief Operating Officer at the Barry Community Foundation.
