Six Students Awarded Connelly/Kreps Memorial Scholarship

The Offutt Family Foundation is honored to announce the recipients of this year’s Connelly/Kreps Memorial Scholarship.

The scholarship is a tribute to the legacies of Mark Kreps and Steve Connelly, RDO leaders who left an indelible mark on the company and team members.

Recipients are selected by an independent scholarship committee, evaluating applicants based on the attributes exemplified by Steve and Mark, including entrepreneurial spirit, hard work through activities and jobs, and commitment to serving and leading others.

Committee members were challenged this year to select recipients from a total pool of candidates who are motivated, high achievers with great things ahead of them. 

“It sounds cliche, but these kids are truly going to change the world around them,” commented one committee member.

Daphine Nadgwick

Daughter of Matthew Nadgwick, Service Operations Manager - Fergus Falls, Minnesota 

Daphine is graduating from Fergus Falls High School in Fergus Falls, Minnesota. Throughout her time in school, she has had one main goal, to help others reach their full potential. From being an active member of National Honors Society, captain of her swim team and an advocate for students’ mental health, Daphine has strived to build relationships that will continue to change the world for the better. She will be attending University of North Dakota to pursue a degree in Dietetics to ensure those who suffer from eating disorders feel less alone.  

Justin Shoop

Son of Matt Shoop, Store Manager - Eugene, Oregon 

Justin is graduating from Shoop Academy in Springfield, Oregon. He has worked as a camp counselor for many years and has volunteered as a basketball coach for local teams. These experiences have inspired Justin to pursue a degree in Education from Northwest University with hopes of one day working as a teacher. He is looking forward to impacting the education system for the better and being a role model for kids from all walks of life.  

Nathan Olson

Son of Kirk Olson, Senior Business Analyst - Fargo, North Dakota  

Nathan is graduating from Moorhead High School in Moorhead, Minnesota. From completing his first oil change in 8th grade to becoming a peer tutor in his welding classes, Nathan has a strong passion for hands-on work in fast-paced environments. Over time, he has honed his skills by following the lead of his older brothers as they have pursued careers as technicians. Upon graduation, Nathan will be obtaining a degree in diesel technology.  

Peter Madson

Son of Brian Madson, Credit Operations Director - Fargo, North Dakota 

Peter is graduating from Shanley High School in Fargo, North Dakota. As an active member of countless activities, Peter strives to lead with respect, integrity, empathy and courage. This skill set will continue to serve him well as he pursues a degree in Marketing at the University of Mary. His interest in marketing was sparked early on, as he competed in debates and had the opportunity to learn about business, economics and finance while also utilizing his strong people skills.  

Seth Knutson

Son of Allan Knutson, Field Service Technician -Rapid City, South Dakota  

Seth is graduating from Hill City High School in Hill City, South Dakota. There, he was Captain of the football team for three years where he learned the importance of leadership, integrity and having a strong character. Outside of school, Seth spent five years as a Cadet for the Battle Creek Fire Department where he participated in training and community events.  After years of watching his Dad find effective solutions for customers as a Service Technician for RDO, Seth is excited to follow in his footsteps by pursuing a degree in diesel technology at Lake Area Technical College.   

Tristan Gosch

Son of Taylor Gosch, Regional General Manager and Michelle Gosch, Service Manager - Redfield, South Dakota  

Tristian is graduating from Warner School District in Warner, South Dakota. He grew up on a 4th generation family farm which exposed him to the importance of agriculture early on in his life. Tristan’s passion for farming only grew as he completed multiple agriculture technology-focused internships while in high school. He’s also an accomplished leader within his community and school as he participates in 4H, football, One Act Play, Baseball and South Dakota’s Service Leadership Academy. Tristan will be attending Lake Area Technical College to pursue a degree in Precision Ag Technology