Catching up with 2025 HEF Scholarship Recipient Jaelynn Mentel

Jaelynn Mentel, 2025 recipient of a HEF General Fund scholarship, is studying psychology at the University of Iowa. Her future goals include obtaining her master's  degree after completing her undergraduate and opening her own counseling practice.  She is loving college life and has joined her residence hall association, attended many athletic and music events with friends, and volunteers her time at the University of  Iowa Hospital.  

 Receiving a scholarship from HEF meant a lot to Jaelynn and helped alleviate  some of the financial burden college brings. "Groups like HEF are important for  students because it helps encourage them to give back to their community. Giving  back to a community that you live in means a great deal such as growing the future  and potential of our small town," she said. When asked about any advice for current  Hudson students, Jaelynn reassured students that it's okay to change your mind. You  may start college with a specific major and plan for your future, but those plans may  change with new experiences and opportunities. "College is not one clear path, and it  is okay to change your mind," she wisely shared.  

 All Hudson seniors and current college students are encouraged to apply for the 2026 HEF scholarships.

They must be submitted on Canvas by Thursday, February  12th, 2026. The application can be found at http://hudsonpiratepride.com under the Grades 7-12 link.  

 The Hudson Educational Fund is an independent, tax-exempt corporation  created to provide scholarships for students and funding for educational programs and projects of the Hudson Community School District. Donations made are tax-deductible and nearly 100% of the donations are awarded in scholarships or given directly to  school programs. Since 1998, HEF has awarded 770 scholarships valued at $481,198  and given over $15,000 to support school-related projects and programs. Please  consider donating to the future success of scholars at Hudson Schools! 

Hudson Educational Fund  

PO Box 281  

Hudson, IA 50643