NMFLB News:
The New Mexico Farm & Livestock Bureau (NMFLB) has awarded its 2026 Memorial Scholarships to three outstanding New Mexico students who have demonstrated excellence in academics, leadership, agricultural involvement, and community service.
Recipients include Wyatt Curry of Roswell, Alison Poling of Des Moines, and Denny Turner of Texico.
Wyatt Curry of Roswell will graduate from Goddard High School in May 2026 while simultaneously earning an Associate’s Degree in University Studies from Eastern New Mexico University. He earned Dean’s List honors during Fall 2024, Spring 2025, and Fall 2025.
Throughout high school, Curry distinguished himself through leadership, academic achievement, and involvement in agricultural education programs. He was recognized as the 2023 New Mexico State 4-H High Point Individual in the Pasture and Range Contest and third high at the NM State FFA Career Development Events (CDEs). He led his teams at both contests in 2023 to first-place. In 2025, his team placed second in Meats at the NM State FFA CDEs.
An active member of the Goddard FFA chapter, Curry served as vice president and secretary and participated in numerous service activities, including volunteering with New Mexico Baptist Disaster Relief during flood cleanup efforts in Roswell. He plans to attend Oklahoma State University and pursue a career in large animal veterinary medicine.
“My current plan is to go into the large animal field of veterinary medicine,” Curry said. “In this role, I will be able to have a significant impact on the agricultural community as I serve as a medical practitioner, teacher, and source of connection for various branches of the agricultural community.”
Alison Poling is a graduating senior from Des Moines High School. While in high school, Poling completed college-level coursework through Clovis Community College, Mesalands Community College, and West Texas A&M University.
Poling earned recognition as a two-time high-point individual livestock judger at the New Mexico FFA State CDEs (2024-2025) and attended the National FFA Washington Leadership Conference. She also served as Union County Fair Princess and was named the 2025 Region 1 Runner-Up Pole Bender in the Texas High School Rodeo Association.
In addition to agricultural leadership, Poling served as team captain for varsity basketball and held leadership positions in FFA, 4-H, National Honor Society, and Student Council. Her community service activities included Meals of Hope, cleanup projects at the Folsom Museum Garden, and years of volunteer work through 4-H.
Poling plans to attend West Texas A&M University to pursue a degree in agricultural business with career goals in agricultural appraisal.
“I will always be able to tie everything back to the industry that has given me so much because agriculture is not just about cattle and living on a ranch, it is about growing each other and contributing to the greater good,” Poling said.
Denny Turner is graduating senior from Texico High School. Turner maintained Honor Roll status throughout high school and earned membership in the National Honor Society. While in high school, Turner completed dual credit classes with Clovis Community College and Eastern New Mexico State University.
A multi-sport athlete, Turner participated in football, powerlifting, and track and field. In football, he served as co-captain and earned both All-District and All-State honors. Turner also served as sentinel and reporter for the Texico FFA Chapter and held leadership roles in 4-H at the county and state levels, including serving as New Mexico State 4-H President.
Through the American Quarter Horse Association, Turner represented New Mexico as a Youth Excellence Seminar delegate and was a New Mexico affiliate officer. He plans to attend Oklahoma State University and pursue a career in sports media with a specialization in equine related sports.
“My future occupation in sports information and broadcasting will benefit society by connecting people, promoting positive values and giving a voice to communities that are often overlooked,” Turner said. “As someone who plans to pursue a career in sports media with a focus on agriculture and equine events, I see this field as more than entertainment; it is an opportunity to inform, inspire and unite audiences.”
The New Mexico Farm & Livestock Bureau Memorial Scholarship program recognizes students who exemplify leadership, academic excellence, and dedication to the future of agriculture and rural communities across New Mexico.