Incoming CSC range management major receives top SRM scholarship

Announcement of the $5,000 award was made Feb. 3 at the organization’s annual meeting in Sacramento, California.

Jech said her interest in range plants, soil and conservation has intensified over the years leading her to the decision to study range science at CSC.

“I want to build my knowledge and return to the ranch after college. I have my own Black Angus cattle now and Rushville is where I want to live and work. I’m excited and hopeful to start at CSC, especially with the new building. I’ve attended several events on campus and two of my three brothers went there,” Jech said.

Nate Jech is a senior in the CSC range program and Ben Jech graduated from the program in 2011. The three students, and an older sibling, Tim, are the children of Kevin and Donna Jech who ranch north of Rushville.

Dr. Anthony Perlinski, who attended the SRM meeting with eight CSC students, was enthusiastic about the news of Jech’s scholarship.

“The Masonic-Range Science scholarship is the top one of its kind in the country and it speaks to Missy’s abilities as a student and a leader.  We in the rangeland management program at CSC are excited to have her continue the Jech family tradition in the rangeland management program.”

In addition to being elected the president of her local FFA chapter, Jech is involved in Sheridan County 4-H shooting sports, Jr. Legion Auxiliary and numerous other service and volunteer organizations.

Jech's scholarship continues a long association between CSC and the SRM.

In October, Perlinski, an assistant professor in the range program, was elected an officer in the Nebraska Section, SRM. Former CSC professor Dr. Chuck Butterfield received the Fellow Award at the 2014 SRM annual meeting and Dr. Jim O’Rourke, Butterfield’s predecessor, served as the SRM international president in 2001.