Guthrie County REC is pleased to announce this year’s scholarship recipients. These four students have earned $1,000 each to support their post-high school education. As a cooperative, Guthrie County REC is deeply invested in the communities and the members it serves.

Scholarships were awarded to the following individuals:

Tanner is the son of Rachel and Justin Downing of Guthrie Center. Tanner will continue his education at Iowa Lakes Community College, pursuing an electrical technology degree as he works toward becoming a licensed electrician. This is a rigorous, hands-on path. He’ll complete 8,000 hours of on-the-job training before earning his electrical license and hopes to own his own electrical business one day. Throughout high school, Tanner worked for a local electrician, gaining real-world experience while learning more about HVAC systems. Tanner is also deeply involved in fine arts, participating in choir, band, speech and drama. In addition, he stayed active in the National Honor Society, Leo’s Club, FFA and 4-H, along with numerous community activities. With a strong foundation of technical experience, leadership and involvement, Tanner is excited to keep learning and put his skills to work to build a successful future.

Dakota is the daughter of Sara and Patrick Houlihan of Woodward. Dakota will pursue a nursing degree at Grand View University, turning her passion for helping others into a lifelong career. In high school, she stayed busy and involved, earning honor roll recognition and participating in cheerleading, band, choir and school plays. Dakota proactively worked toward her future goals by earning her CNA certificate and spent her high school years working with residents at a local nursing home, learning what it means to care for others day in and day out. Dakota is excited to continue learning and growing and hopes to keep making a positive difference for the people around her.

Becca is the daughter of Amy and Bill Littler of Guthrie Center. This fall, Becca plans to attend Iowa State University to major in marketing, with the goal of earning her real estate license and launching a career as a realtor. She is outgoing and enjoys building connections wherever she goes. Throughout high school, Becca stayed occupied with volleyball, basketball, track and softball, while also being involved in Leo’s Club and National Honor Society. She’s been active in her church, helping teach Sunday school, and has been involved in community activities. She works part time at AgHub Midwest in Menlo helping in the office and with marketing and looks forward to continuing to learn, grow and get involved as she works toward a strong future.

Brennan is the son of Erica Tunink of Adair and Brian Tunink of Guthrie Center. This fall, Brennan will continue his education at Marshalltown Community College to become a powerline technician. Brennan is a hands-on person and is pursuing a career working outdoors in a team environment. He was involved in multiple sports throughout his school years, including basketball, wrestling, track and field, and football. Beyond athletics, Brennan stayed involved in 4-H and his church, where he’s helped with youth programs and community activities. He enjoys meeting new people and is looking forward to being involved in new activities once he starts college in the fall. When he’s not at school or practice, Brennan works on his family farm part time to save money for college and hopes to build a successful future for himself as a journeyman lineman.