Only 14 years old, Madison Dobbins received a prestigious award from Indiana Lt. Governor Becky Skillman Friday afternoon.
Dobbins, an Edgewood Middle School student, is only one of three winners of the Hoosier Rising Star award in the state. Alexandra Lesniak, South Bend, and Elizabeth Price, Columbus, were the other two recipients.
During a schoolwide convocation at Edgewood, Skillman told students, "It means a lot to set an example for your schoolmates. One of your schoolmates has set an example and is making a difference."
Skillman created the Hoosier Rising Star Award in 2007 to recognize Indiana youth making a difference in their community. Any student enrolled in grades kindergarten to 12th grade during the 2009-10 school year was eligible to be nominated by a member of their community for the award. Skillman received 30 nominee applications this year.
She said the average 14-year-old girl doesn't list public speaking as a hobby. The average 14-year-old girl isn't working to raise awareness about something she's passionate about. And, she said, the average 14-year-old isn't working to educate the public about animal care in the agriculture industry.
"But Madison Dobbins isn't your average 14-year-old girl," Skillman said. "She's an outstanding young woman who has used her knowledge about agriculture to affect change."
Dobbins, of Silver Lake, has spoken at several organizations, including Farm Bureau and the Cattlemen's Club. She is working to educate legislators. Dobbins, Skillman said, is organizing a Legislative Beef Show at the Kosciusko County Fair in July to educate legislators and local government officials about responsible practices farmers use to care for animals.
"We need people like Madison. She will help us get the good word out about agriculture," Skillman said.
Skillman told Dobbins her passion about agriculture and her passion and dedication to defend it is extraordinary.
"On behalf of the community and state, Madison, we thank you for all you've done," Skillman said.Dobbins thanked everyone who has ever supported her. She said it's been very difficult to do what she did. She thanked teachers, friends and all who told her that she was doing a good job. "It means a lot," she said.
Skillman presented Dobbins with a trophy donated by Tic Toc Trophy Shop, Akron, to commemorate her achievements.
