Ava's interest in science began on her family's dairy farm where she learned firsthand the importance of our interactions with the environment and the care we give to the land and animals that feed our
communities. Ava says that her admiration for science grew stronger in her high school science classes. With her family's and her own medical struggles, Ava's interest in science grew to include caring for people. Ava is excited to embark on a career path next fall at UW-Madison to pursue a biological sciences degree with a Spanish certificate to help her achieve her dream of becoming a physician. Ava hopes to serve farmers who do so much for the health of the state and the nation and her local
community.
Farming is hard work. "Unwavering dedication to making quality food products is not easy," states Ava. "It is physically and mentally demanding and often requires many
sacrifices." As Ava notes, oftentimes, farmers put their health and wellness on the back burner while they deal with the stress of farming with uncertain markets, unpredictable weather, long hours, and intensive labor. "Unfortunately, it is common for farmers to not take care of their physical and mental health," says Ava. "I want to make it my mission to positively affect the rural healthcare system and encourage self-care for our farmers." Ava will bring her understanding of agricultural
communities to this profession and is excited to make connections so that she can take better care of their physical and mental health.
This summer will be a busy time for Ava. She'll
be showing her family's string of cattle with her younger sister and family friend at local, county, and state fairs. In addition to working on her family's farm, she will also be working a variety of jobs including being a nanny for four children and a certified nursing assistant at a local assisted living and memory care facility.
Please join us in congratulating Ava Endres!
Special thanks to the WROF, Inc. Premier Scholarship Program Chair Sue Schultz and the Selection Committee.
Please stay tuned for further introductions to the
WROF, Inc. Premier Scholarship Award recipients.