2026 Scholarship

7X24 EXCHANGE SILICON PRAIRIE CHAPTER 2026 SCHOLARSHIP AWARD WINNERs

Grace Evert

Neuroscience

I am extremely grateful to be selected as a 7x24 Exchange Silicon Prairie Chapter 2026 Scholarship Award Winner. I will be attending Washington University in St. Louis in the fall to study Neuroscience, and this scholarship is an incredible gift that enables me to do so. 

I have always been fascinated by the intersection of science and technology, and how the two often work together to shape patient outcomes. As both a patient myself and as a hospital volunteer, I recognize the impact technology makes in medicine, and the opportunity for advancements in biotechnologies. In the future, I hope to continue learning about and contributing to medical technologies, and one day implement these innovations as a physician. 

This scholarship is an incredible lift off my shoulders as it helps ease the financial commitment and allows me to focus on my aspirations and pursue unique opportunities without barriers. I am deeply appreciative of the faith the committee has in me as a student and person. Thank you again for your support. 

Addison Anderson

Nutrition and Exercise Science

I am deeply honored to receive the 7x24 Exchange – Silicon Prairie Chapter Scholarship. Growing up in a small rural Nebraska community, I have witnessed firsthand how technology has transformed everyday life, especially in agriculture. These experiences have shaped my passion for using technology to improve lives, not just in urban areas, but in rural communities like my own.

This scholarship will support my education at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, where I plan to major in Nutrition and Exercise Science. My goal is to combine technology with health and wellness by developing tools and programs that improve access to care, particularly in underserved rural areas. I hope to help individuals take control of their health and contribute to stronger, healthier communities. This opportunity brings me one step closer to making a meaningful impact in places like the one that helped shape me. 

Chesney delaria

Civil Engineering

Thank you so much for the honor of receiving the 7x24 Silicon Prairie Scholarship Award. As a full-time Civil Engineering student at Iowa State University, balancing a rigorous course load while working has often meant making difficult trade-offs. This scholarship will significantly ease that financial burden, allowing me more time to focus on my upper-level coursework and engage more deeply with my education.

With this support, I look forward to fully immersing myself in my studies and developing the skills necessary to solve real-world infrastructure challenges. I am excited to eventually contribute to meaningful projects that impact our communities. Thank you again for your generosity and for supporting my goal of becoming a professional engineer.

Alona Wilson

Pre-Med Biology

Receiving this scholarship from the 7x24 Exchange Silicon Prairie Chapter is an opportunity I don't take lightly. As an undergraduate biology student on a pre-med track, my eyes are fixed on a future in healthcare, one where I can make a meaningful difference in the lives of patients and communities. But I've come to understand that medicine doesn't exist in isolation. It is increasingly shaped, supported, and transformed by the very infrastructure that keeps our world running around the clock. 

Beyond the financial support, the greatest gift of this opportunity is access to a professional network of industry leaders, to conversations I wouldn't otherwise be part of, and to a broader understanding of how complex systems work together to keep people safe and cared for. As I continue my journey toward medical school, I intend to carry those insights with me, bringing an informed perspective on the systems that will one day support my work as a physician.

I am grateful to the 7x24 Exchange Silicon Prairie Chapter for investing in students who are still finding their path. I plan to honor that investment by showing curiosity, humility, and a commitment to bridging the worlds of science, technology, and human health.

Regina Ho

AI Engineering

I am incredibly excited and sincerely grateful to have been awarded a $4,000 scholarship towards my advanced education in STEM. The 7x24 Exchange – Silicon Prairie Chapter Scholarship will help me support my educational aspirations to pursue a degree in engineering, explore the field of AI, and help implement its sustainable implementation.

This scholarship will allow me to focus on educational projects that excite me, from gaining experience by working in various cutting-edge research facilities and labs to contributing to academia through technological innovation in college and beyond. It also eases the financial burden of accessing higher education, giving me the ability to commit to extracurricular involvement, build connections with industry professionals, and fully dedicate myself to my challenging coursework over the next four years.

Beyond the financial support, this recognition is truly motivating. To be encouraged by industry professionals in a field I aspire to join strengthens my commitment to advancing my career in meaningful technology innovation and advancement.

Kalya Kothavale

Mechanical Engineering

As I major in Mechanical Engineering at Georgia Tech in the fall, the 7x24 Prairie Scholarship will play a meaningful role in supporting my academic success by easing the financial pressure associated with a rigorous college education. With reduced financial stress, I’ll be able to take advantage of opportunities like research, internships, and student organizations.

After graduating from college, I want to design accessible robots and assistive devices to help people with disabilities live more independently. I would like to once again thank the Silicon Prairie Chapter for this scholarship and for supporting my future.