In a heartwarming tribute to the late Kiefer Leutschaft, four graduating seniors from Central Oregon have been awarded the 2026 Kiefer Leutschaft Memorial Scholarships. These scholarships, each valued at $2,500, were announced by Rimrock Trails Treatment Services and the Kiefer Magical Legacy Fund on June 1st.

Honoring a Legacy

The scholarship program was established by the Leutschaft family in partnership with Rimrock Trails Treatment Services, following the tragic loss of their son, Kiefer, to mental illness in 2021. The initiative aims to reduce the stigma surrounding mental health and support future professionals in the field of behavioral health.

This year’s recipients include Avery Burnett from Crook County High School, who plans to major in psychology with a focus on early childhood development at Western Oregon University. Parker Gibson from Redmond High School will attend Monterey Peninsula Junior College to study early childhood occupational therapy. Ryan Quinn, also from Crook County High School, intends to double major in psychology and business at the University of Oregon. Lastly, Kaylie Sullivan from Redmond High School will pursue forensic psychology at Point Loma Nazarene University.

Supporting Future Leaders

The scholarships recognize students who have demonstrated academic excellence, leadership, community involvement, and a passion for mental health advocacy. Organizers praised this year’s applicants as exceptional young leaders committed to making a positive impact in their communities and beyond.

Rimrock Trails Treatment Services, a nonprofit organization based in Central Oregon, provides a wide range of mental health and substance use treatment services to youth, adults, and families in the region. Over the past year, they have delivered more than 19,000 services, including counseling, mental health assessments, and adolescent residential treatment.

Original reporting: KTVZ (Central Oregon) — read the source article.