The Community Foundation for Crawford County is pleased to introduce Giselle Risner, a 2026 recipient of one of the three Dr. Joseph and Susan Shadeed Scholarship awards.
Giselle, the daughter of Noel Ritchie and Chad Risner, is a 2024 graduate of Wynford High School. She is attending North Central State College and studying to be a Radiology Technician.
What is your favorite aspect of college life and why?
"One of my favorite parts of college life is being able to go to community college and commute. I like that I can stay close to home while still working toward my future, and it makes balancing school and personal life a lot easier for me. Working on my degree feels exciting because I know it's helping me grow, learn new things, and prepare for a career I'll enjoy."
What new interests or courses of study have you discovered at college?
"Anatomy has always interested me because I find the human body fascinating and enjoy learning how everything works together. I like understanding how muscles, organs, and different body systems function and affect everyday life. Learning about anatomy has made me even more interested in healthcare and helping others."
In what way has the college experience changed/improved you?
"College experience has helped me become more independent, responsible, and confident in myself. It has taught me how to manage my time better, stay motivated, and work toward long-term goals. Through my classes and experiences, I've also grown personally by learning new skills, meeting different people, and gaining a better understanding of what I want for my future."
What advice would you give an incoming college freshman?
"The advice I would give to an incoming freshman is to stay organized, manage your time well, and not be afraid to ask for help when you need it. College can feel overwhelming at first, but it gets easier as you adjust. I would also tell them to stay focused on their goals, try new experiences, and enjoy the journey because college goes by faster than you think."
What is one item on your bucket list and why?
"One item on my bucket list is to travel to different places and experience new cultures. I think it would be exciting to see new environments, try different foods, and meet people with different lifestyles and traditions. Traveling would help me learn more about the world and create memories I would never forget."
Congratulations and good luck in the future, Giselle!
To learn more about scholarships offered through the Foundation, visit www.cfcrawford.org/scholarships
