Growing up in rural New Mexico taught Madison Kenyon the importance of responsibility, resilience, and service to community. Those values have earned the House High School graduate recognition as the 2026 recipient of the 505 Southwestern® New Mexico True Scholars Award.
The scholarship supports graduating New Mexico seniors who plan to attend a New Mexico college or university and demonstrate a commitment to strengthening the state’s agricultural industry and food economy.
Madison’s passion for agriculture and education has been shaped by her involvement in student teaching, FFA, and agricultural education programs. She plans to become an Agricultural Education teacher, helping students discover opportunities in agriculture while building confidence and leadership skills.
“Growing up in rural New Mexico, I learned that agriculture is built on responsibility, resilience, and commitment to something bigger than yourself,” Madison said. “As an ag teacher, I want to create a classroom where students learn by doing, gain confidence through leadership and public speaking, and discover the passion for agriculture that I hold so near to my heart.”
Madison’s goal is to help the next generation recognize their strengths while preparing them for success in agriculture and beyond.
Her story reflects the power of investing in rural students and communities. Through partnerships like the 505 Southwestern® New Mexico True Scholars Award, the New Mexico Community Foundation helps connect companies with local opportunities that make a lasting impact.
As New Mexico’s trusted philanthropic infrastructure and local implementation partner, NMCF understands the unique needs of communities across the state. By working with partners such as 505 Southwestern®, NMCF helps ensure scholarship investments reach promising students like Madison, whose leadership and commitment will help shape New Mexico’s future.
Learn more at nmcf.org/505-southwestern-nm-true.