Mildred Stoltz Award winners recognized during MFU Convention

Several youths were recognized for their engagement with agriculture and Montana Farmers Union Summer Camps at Arrowpeak during MFU’s 110th Annual State Convention held in Lewistown.

Madilyn de la Garza from Great Falls, Edward Green from Fort Benton, Ezra Krebs from Belt, and Febe Krebs from Belt were named the 2025 Mildred Stoltz Award recipients for demonstrating a positive attitude, kindness, strong verbal skills, and knowledge of cooperative principles during MFU’s Summer Camps at Arrowpeak Lodge this summer. In addition to the recognition during MFU’s Annual State Convention, the winners also received $50 and a camp scholarship.

“Mildred Stoltz was instrumental in developing MFU education. The award is selected by camp staff and the youth advisory council that recognizes young individuals as leaders with a positive attitude and kindness. These winners are exemplary of what MFU strives to develop in all our youth,” MFU President Walter Schweitzer said.

Each of the winners said they loved their camp experience, with Ezra saying the campfires were his favorite part. Febe said she most enjoyed free time with new friends. For Edward, doing dishes and working in the co-op store are the best parts.

“And you get to meet a lot of new friends,” Edward added.

The award recipients are part of record 240 campers who enjoyed activities like soap felting, nature survival lessons and trying out a low ropes course. Campers interacted with chickens, lambs, and an onsite greenhouse during the summer camp program at MFU’s Arrowpeak camp and events facility.

The Mildred Stoltz Award recipients epitomize the camp experience, MFU Education Director Jodi Koterba said.

“The camp experience builds campers’ character. The youth benefit from the nature, camaraderie, and social interactions,” Koterba added.

In addition to summer camps, MFU offers summer Day Camps, school programming, ag-based lessons, and educational workshops across the state as part of the organization’s commitment to education for Montanans of all ages. Learn more about MFU’s educational programming at www.montanafarmersunion.com.