CHESTERTOWN — Mary Jane Joiner and John Scott “Scottie” Ford III, members of the Kent County High School Class of 2026, are this year’s recipients of the Kent Soil and Water Conservation District scholarships presented annually in partnership with Andelot LLC.
The scholarships support Kent County students pursuing higher education in agriculture, natural resources, and environmental- or conservation-related fields.
Joiner is the recipient of the Kent Soil and Water Conservation District and Andelot LLC Scholarship for her exceptional academic record and deep commitment to environmental science and agricultural studies.
With a weighted 4.30 grade point average, rigorous classes and extensive agricultural science coursework, Joiner “has distinguished herself through both academics and passion,” a news release states.
A member of FFA, National Honor Society, National Art Honor Society, Student Government Association and the outstanding female athlete in the Class of 2026, Joiner embodies leadership and service, according to the scholarship committee.
Her capstone research on algae growth mitigation techniques “demonstrates her commitment to solving real-world environmental challenges,” the news release states.
Joiner will attend Roanoke College [Virginia] in the fall and major in environmental science. She plans to pursue graduate studies focusing on the intersection of agriculture and water quality.
Also, Joiner has been recruited to play lacrosse at Roanoke.
Ford is the recipient of the S. Wicks Westcott Memorial Scholarship based on criteria that include dedication, strong character and vocational commitment to natural resources protection.
He graduated with a 3.08 GPA and completed multiple science courses in preparation for his environmental- and law enforcement-related studies.
A triple-threat athlete, Ford received high marks from his coaches and teachers for his leadership, resiliency and work ethic.
His participation in FFA, Interact Club and an athletic department internship “reflects his commitment to service and personal growth,” according to the scholarship committee.
Ford is headed to King’s College [Pennsylvania] where he has been accepted into the criminal justice program. His goal is to become a Natural Resources Police officer, a career that directly supports conservation and environmental stewardship.
Ford also has been recruited to wrestle for King’s.
In awarding scholarships, the Kent Soil and Water Conservation District and Andelot LLC recognize students’ academic achievement, commitment to conservation and the pursuit of environmentally focused careers.
KSWCD congratulates Joiner and Ford on their achievements and “is proud to support their continued education and contributions to the fields of natural resources, agriculture and environmental stewardship,” the news release states.
Scholarships are funded in part by the Maryland Association of Soil Conservation Districts, Andelot LLC, Kent Soil and Water Conservation District and funds generated by the annual Cooperator’s Dinner silent auction.
For more information, visit https://kentsoilandwaterconservationdistrict.org/.
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Founded in 1938, Kent Soil and Water Conservation District works alongside landowners, agricultural producers and community partners to promote practices that protect soil health, reduce erosion, improve water quality and preserve natural resources throughout Kent County and the Chesapeake Bay watershed.
2 Responses
Good to see a strong AG program continues at KCHS. How about identifying the others in the photograph? (Or did I miss it).
Just in case you missed it … From left are: Robert Baldwin, district manager; Eddie Taylor, representing Andelot LLC and member of the Kent Soil and Water Conservation District board; Mary Jane Joiner; John “Scottie” Ford; Charles Miller, chairman of the KSWCD board; and Frank Barnes, supervisor of the KSWCD board. Submitted photo