By Emmy Powell
Communications Specialist

Cassia Hernandez, Margaret Ogea and Tyler Rafa are the 2024 recipients of the $5,000 scholarships funded by Texas Farm Bureau through the Texas 4-H Foundation.

“Through our partnership with Texas 4-H, we are happy to support the next generation of leaders and youth in agriculture to help them on their educational journeys,” McKenna Bush, TFB Youth Outreach coordinator, said.

Hernandez graduated from Sanora ISD and plans to attend Texas Tech University to major in interior design and pursue a career as an interior designer.

“I feel very blessed to receive this scholarship,” Hernandez said. “I know that it is giving me great opportunity to pursue my career.”

Hernandez exhibited sheep and goats, participated in the sheep project, rain science project and educational presentation through Texas 4-H. She also judged wool, mohair and livestock and was a club officer.

In addition to 4-H, Hernandez participate in UIL, Student Council and National Honors Society. She also volunteered with her county’s annual peewee livestock show, helping children in the show ring.

Ogea completed the Mother of Divine Grace homeschool curriculum. She plans to attend Texas Tech University and study biology, chemistry and theater.

Ogea was a 4-H Photo Ambassador, and she participated in the Junior Master Photography Program and the Performing Arts Vocal Competition.

Outside of participating in 4-H, she actively pursues creative passions and sang the National Anthem for the steer show at Rodeo Austin.

“This scholarship is going to have a very big impact on me and my family. It’s going to help me get through school and alleviate some of the financial burden of my parents,” Ogea said.

Rafa graduated from Frenship High School and plans to attend Texas Tech University to study animal science. He hopes to pursue a career in agricultural sales.

“I’m excited to be a recipient of this scholarship from Texas Farm Bureau,” he said.

Rafa participated in meat judging, food challenge, food bowl, quiz bowl, nutrition bowl, shooting sports and entomology. He has also held every officer role for his club.

Outside of 4-H, Rafa has participated in FFA, was a member of the National Honor Society and played football. He has helped with the Frenship Ag Day where he taught agricultural information to fifth graders throughout the school district. Rafa has also helped with judging camps.

TFB is a longtime supporter of Texas 4-H, working with the youth organization in leadership development, service learning and agricultural advocacy and literacy. TFB provides assistance to the organization through various youth outreach and development programs throughout the year, as well as a complimentary TFB membership to each 4-H club in Texas.