Central Kansas Catbackers announced the latest scholarship recipients.

In 2016, the Central Kansas Catbackers created a scholarship program for local students that plan to attend Kansas State University as freshmen in the fall. The committee awards five $1,000 scholarships each year. 

Sponsors said they received several outstanding applications and faced a difficult challenge selecting five recipients.

The five recipients of the 2023-2024 Central Kansas Catbacker Scholarship are:

● August Siefkes, graduate of Great Bend High School. August is the daughter of Jon and Andrea Siefkes. August will pursue a degree in Music Performance and a minor in business with plans to enter the music industry. 

● Aubrey Smith, graduate of Great Bend High School. Aubrey is the daughter of Jared and Amber Smith. Aubrey will pursue a degree in Biology with plans to enter the medical field.

● Kevin Gonzalez, graduate of Great Bend High School. Kevin is the son of Zusseth Pinillo. Kevin will pursue a degree in BioMedical Engineering with plans to enter the health industry.

● Ryan Kuckelman, graduate of Macksville High School. Ryan is the son of Jeff and Jan Kuckelman. Ryan will pursue a degree in Business Marketing.

● Joshua Hildebrand, graduate of Stafford High School. Joshua is the son of Jason and Carrie Hildebrand. Joshua will pursue a degree in Mechanical Engineering with plans to enter the Air Force.