Kerstyn Countrymann

Dear The Beacon, Thank you so very much for awarding me the Lyon County Community Engagement Youth Scholarship. Receiving this scholarship means so much to me, and I'm truly honored to have my commitment to community change acknowledged by your organization. Your support helps lighten the financial demands of my veterinary education at Cornell, allowing me to focus fully on my studies, research, and community involvement. It would not be possible to achieve my goals and practice rural medicine without your support. I have a friend who is heavily burdened with debt from school, and because of it, she is limited in what she can do to be able to pay back the loans. Scholarships like these allow students to not only achieve their goals but also have the financial freedom to give back to the community, and for that, I am deeply grateful. Growing up in Nevada, splitting my time between our family ranch and the Paiute reservation, I learned firsthand the value of supporting and uplifting rural communities. Pursuing my Doctorate of Veterinary Medicine is more than a personal goal—it's a way for me to give back by advancing animal health and mentoring the next generation of veterinary professionals. I’m especially passionate about empowering rural youth and ensuring they have access to opportunities that help them thrive, just as your mission encourages. I am so thankful for The Beacon’s commitment to connecting Nevada’s rural youth with the resources and support they need for brighter futures. Knowing that your generosity is rooted in a desire to help students like me means so much. It motivates me to keep striving for excellence and to give back in meaningful ways. Thank you for believing in me and for your unwavering dedication to our community’s future. I deeply appreciate your support and look forward to making a positive difference, both in my profession and in my home state. Thank you so very much, Kerstyn Countrymann