The Youth of the Year award is presented to a deserving youth who has exhibited exemplary character through their community service and volunteerism. The Susan Scott Memorial Scholarship is also awarded to the Youth Of The Year. The Youth Of the Year receives a $4,000 scholarship from the Susan Scott Memorial Fund along with a $500 award, presented by the NSBA Foundation, to the charity of the youth’s choice. The Susan Scott Memorial Scholarship is now in its fifth year and is awarded in memory of the late Non-Pro exhibitor, horse owner and breeder Susan Scott.

Since 2019, Rye has supported Humane Ohio with a fundraiser of his own creation. He makes homemade dog and horse treats that he sells at horse shows and other events. Every dollar he earns goes directly toward the Humane Ohio mission of ending pet homelessness. To date, Rye has raised more than $4,000 for Humane Ohio, with more than $2,000 in the past year alone. His initiative has raised critical awareness about the importance of affordable spay and neuter services and responsible pet care, as well as made a real financial impact.

Rye did not create his fundraiser as part of a school project or assignment; it was strictly his own idea. He independently sources his materials, manages his sales and does it all with an excellent grade point average and recent academic awards in history and science. He balances his fundraising with involvement in choir, band, soccer and basketball at State Line Christian School. He is also a courteous, respectful and hard-working NSBA and AQHA Youth exhibitor. In his quest to become a veterinarian and return to Humane Ohio fulltime one day, he is volunteering alongside its medical team this summer to gain hands-on experience in the clinic.

The finalists for this year’s award also receive scholarships. They included Olivia Clough, Bobby Culwell and Kenidee Thomas.