Brewster High School senior Joe Leija recently received life-changing news that has filled his hometown with pride and excitement. In an engaging interview with NWKS Radio’s Kristina, Joe shared his journey to becoming a Rudd Scholarship recipient—a full-ride scholarship that covers tuition, books, housing, and more for four years of college.
A Surprise to Remember
Joe’s big day began with an unexpected visit at school. “They showed up with a big
check,” Joe recalled with a smile, describing the moment when the Rudd Foundation surprised him—and his mom—with the award. Although it wasn’t a literal check, the gesture perfectly captured the magnitude of his achievement. The element of surprise added to the joy of the moment, making it an experience Joe will never forget.
What Is the Rudd Scholarship?
The Rudd Scholarship isn’t just any award—it’s a comprehensive scholarship available to Kansas high school students, offering a full-ride to one of four distinguished institutions: K-State, Wichita State, Fort Hays, or Emporia State. Recipients have the unique opportunity to choose the school that best fits their aspirations. Joe, for instance, chose K-State, where he plans to pursue a dual major in agribusiness and agricultural economics.
Each year, the Rudd Foundation awards this scholarship to 50 deserving students, evaluating nearly 700 applications. The selection process focuses on qualities such as purpose, impact, excellence, humility, integrity, stewardship, and community involvement. These values are woven into every aspect of the application, from academic achievements to extracurricular engagements.
Joe’s Journey to Success
Joe’s path to the Rudd Scholarship was anything but easy. He nearly missed the December 1st application deadline, a close call that could have changed everything. Fortunately, his school counselor, Mrs. Hoyt, provided him with the critical information at the right time. Joe meticulously filled out a lengthy application, detailing not only his academic accomplishments but also his community service and leadership experiences through organizations like 4-H and FFA.
Out of roughly 700 applicants, Joe was one of only 70 to 75 students chosen for an in-person interview in Wichita—a testament to his hard work and dedication. His academic achievements, including his near completion of the Kansas Board of Regents curriculum, combined with his involvement in community initiatives, clearly set him apart.
What Lies Ahead
With the scholarship now in hand, Joe is poised to embark on an exciting college journey at K-State. His plans to dual major in agribusiness and agricultural economics reflect his commitment to excellence and his passion for making a difference in his community. Joe’s story is a powerful reminder of how perseverance, community involvement, and hard work can open doors to incredible opportunities.
Final Thoughts
Joe Leija’s achievement is not only a personal triumph but also an inspiring example for students across Kansas. The Rudd Scholarship, with its focus on both academic and community excellence, is a beacon for future leaders. As Joe embarks on this new chapter, his community—and indeed, all of NWKS Radio’s listeners—celebrate his well-deserved success and look forward to seeing all that he will accomplish in the years ahead.
To see the full interview check out our YouTube page: https://youtu.be/Qoz5UwhP_PM
More information on the Rudd Foundation scholarship: ruddfoundation.org
Photos courtesy of Joe Leija
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