Meet the Scholars!
Caden Riat
Caden is originally from Hays, Kansas and is in his senior year here at Fort Hays State. He is majoring in Organizational Leadership and is currently working on a few research projects with the Leadership Department! Caden decided to join the VALUE program as a way to connect with others who share his passion for leadership and aspire to grow as leaders.
“My biggest takeaway from VALUE is the importance of being surrounded by people who genuinely want to see you succeed and offer constructive feedback to help you grow. VALUE is a program designed to enhance your leadership skills while fostering personal growth alongside your peers.”
Caden is also apart of the Fort Hays State Municipal Golf Course Men’s Association. In his free time, Caden loves to go golfing with friends and family, and watching the Chiefs and Royals. Caden is also a big fan of Ted Lasso, The Wolf of Wall Street, and books that talk about sales! Congratulations on completing the VALUE program, Caden!
Nevaeh Copenhaver
Nevaeh is originally from Wakefield, Kansas and in her senior year pursuing a bachelor’s of science in Psychology. Neveah is determined to create a positive impact on the world through her research, leadership, and community involvement. She aspires to contribute to higher education and mentor future generations. After completion of her undergraduate, Nevaeh plans to pursue a Ph.D. in Social Psychology and continue her journey as a scholar and educator. Nevaeh saw the VALUE program as a way to sustain her involvement on a project she is deeply passionate about.
“I am privileged to work as one of the leading coordinators of “Can We Just Talk” (CWJT), a program run by a local non-profit organization, Breathe Coffee House. Through my involvement in CWJT, I have become empowered to cultivate an environment of open and honest dialogue, promoting empathy across various social contexts. The world needs more compassion and kindness—and we must foster them wherever and whenever possible. The VALUE Program has equipped me with invaluable skills to continue serving and helping others.”
Throughout her time at Fort Hays, Nevaeh has been an active participant in multiple on-campus organizations, including the Marching Band Color Guard, Psychology Club, National Alliance on Mental Illness on Campus, Gender-Sexuality Alliance, and the Fort Hays State Honors Society. She has also gained valuable research experience in the Department of Psychology, working as a research assistant on two separate projects, and currently working on an independent study on interpersonal relationships. Outside of school you can find her at Breathe Coffee House sipping on a cup of tea working on academic and extracurricular projects. She also enjoys working out, reading, listening to music, or crafting handmade cards and letters for friends and family. Congratulations on completing the VALUE program, Nevaeh!
Zoey Sneed
Zoey is originally from Fort Morgan, Colorado and is currently in her junior year here at FHSU. She is a dual major in Animal Science and Agribusiness, hoping to receive a bachelor's degree in both as well as a certificate in Leadership. Zoey joined the leadership program to further develop her leadership skills.
“I wanted to use what I was learning to help make a positive impact on my community while making connections with a cohort of amazing people.”
Zoey is involved in numerous clubs and organizations including the Fort Hays Honor College, Fort Hays Honors Society, and Delt Tau Alpha (Agriculture Honors Society). She also sits on the Student Advisory Board for High Plains Farm Credit. Outside of school Zoey enjoys watching movies, reading, traveling, spending time with family and friends, and watching the Denver Nuggets! Congratulations on comleting the VALUE program, Zoey!
Ryan Patterson
Ryan is originally from Falcon, Colorado and is currently in his junior year at FHSU. Ryan is currently working towards a bachelor's degree in business administration with minors in both leadership and marketing. Ryan joined the VALUE program because he sees the need for exceptional leadership every day!
“Competent leadership is going extinct in today's society, and I want to help keep it alive. I also want to make a positive impact on the people around me. It is my goal that every person I come into contact with walks away feeling reassured about themselves and their abilities.
Ryan is the team captain for the FHSU Men’s Wrestling Team, as well as a leader for the young adult-college ministry Christian Challenge. Outside of school and extracurriculars, Ryan enjoys going bird hunting and playing disc golf! Congratulations on completing the VALUE program, Ryan!
Tarah Stockebrand
Tarah is a senior from Savonburg, Ks. She is currently working towards her Bachelor of Science in Organizational Leadership, as well as a minor in Sociology and a certificate in Community Development. Tarah joined the VALUE program to enhance her leadership experience, work intensely on a project, and work alongside other students who are committed to the learning expierence!
"So far, my biggest takeaway from the VALUE program has been the support I have received through the process of planning and implementing my project. The feedback and class discussions have been valuable in shaping my processes for evaluation and problem solving."
Tarah is actively involved with Christian Challenge, serving as president the past two years. Through Challenge she has led a bible study for freshmen and transfer students, served on the worship team, and led the hospitality team. Currently, she is leading a group of students who are new to the Challenge leadership team through a foundations course, and serving on the core team. Outside of the classroom Tarah enjoys crafting, including crocheting, painting, and recently quilting. She also enjoys spending quality time with friends whether that is through late night conversations, watching movies, or playing pickleball! Congratulations on completing the VALUE program, Tarah!