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Jaci Hermstad Spirit Award

CHEROKEE RODEO INC

Foundation Annual Agriculture Grants
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Funding Amount

Varies

Deadline

Rolling / Open

Grant Type

foundation

Overview

Jaci Hermstad Spirit Award

Overview: A commemorative award honoring the legacy and spirit of Jaci Hermstad, a Cherokee, Iowa resident who exemplified courage, faith, inspiration, grit, resilience, and determination.

Focus Areas:

  • Cowgirl spirit and bravery

  • Work ethic and dedication

  • Perseverance through adversity

  • Agriculture and livestock

  • Community service and inspiration

    • About Jaci Hermstad:

  • Born August 22, 1993 in Cherokee, IA to Jeff and Lori Hermstad

  • Twin sister Alexandria (Alex) died February 14, 2011 from a rare, aggressive form of ALS

  • Crowned "Miss Rodeo Cherokee 2012"

  • Graduated Storm Lake High School 2012

  • Associate's Degree in Agriculture Management from Kirkwood Community College

  • Bachelor's of Science in Agriculture from South Dakota State University

  • Worked at Spencer Ag as a field sales specialist

  • Board member of Clay County Cattleman's Association and Clay County Farm Bureau

  • Diagnosed with ALS on Valentine's Day 2019 (same day she lost her sister 8 years prior)

  • Participated in development of personalized drug "Jacifusen" for FUS ALS

  • Passed away in 2020 at age 26

  • Jacifusen is currently in international Phase III clinical trial

    • Past Award Winners:

  • 2025: Cheyenne Frasher

  • 2024: Shelby Sorenson

  • 2023: Carly Fuhrman

    • Jaci's Legacy: Her courage, sacrifice, perseverance, and work advancing ALS science continue to inspire others.

    Focus Areas & Funding Uses

    Fields of Work

    agriculture

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