Western Cooperative Electric has announced the first-ever recipient of its new W.O.R.K. (Western Opportunity for Rural Kansas) Scholarship, created to support members who return to the region after college and contribute to the vitality of rural communities.

The Western Cooperative Electric Board of Trustees strongly supported the launch of the program and funded $1,000 toward this inaugural award.

The 2025 W.O.R.K. Scholarship has been awarded to Kara Quilter, a 2019 graduate of Ellsworth Jr./Sr. High School and Kansas State University. Quilter earned her Bachelor of Science in Agricultural Education and returned to Ellsworth, where she now serves as the Lead Agricultural Educator and FFA Advisor at her alma mater.

Since beginning her career, Quilter has made significant contributions to both the community and local youth. Under her leadership, the Ellsworth FFA Chapter earned the Bob Garlow Memorial Trophy, the highest honor a Kansas FFA chapter can receive. She has also hosted statewide horse evaluation contests, volunteered with 4-H organizations, supported local harvest efforts, and remained involved in a variety of school and civic activities.

Member Services Manager Christina Hayes shared that this scholarship marks an important milestone in Western’s commitment to emerging local leaders. “The W.O.R.K. Scholarship gives us a new way to support young members who come back to build their lives and careers in our rural communities,” Hayes said. “Programs like this help strengthen the future of our region by investing in those who choose to invest in us.”

Quilter expressed deep appreciation for the cooperative’s support. “I am grateful that my local electric cooperative believes in supporting young professionals who choose to return home,” she said. “This scholarship helps lighten the financial load of student loan debt and shows that Western Cooperative Electric is truly committed to the success of its members and our community.”

The W.O.R.K. Scholarship represents Western Cooperative Electric’s mission to support individuals who strengthen rural Kansas through leadership, education, and service.

Western Cooperative Electric extends its congratulations to Kara Quilter, the first-ever W.O.R.K. Scholarship recipient, and expresses appreciation for her ongoing dedication to the community.