BISMARCK – Samuel Benson of Underwood and Moorea Knapp of Bismarck are the 2025 recipients of the Jeff Burgess Memorial Scholarship Award, the North Dakota Lignite Energy Council announced.

The scholarships are awarded annually to two seniors from Burleigh, Mercer, McLean, Morton or Oliver County high schools who excel academically and are continuing their education in a science-related field.

Benson will graduate from Underwood High School and will attend Minot State University in the fall. He will double major in chemistry and geology with plans to begin a career in the energy sector upon graduation. He was heavily involved in extracurricular activities throughout high school, earning letters in football, basketball, and track, with multiple all-region and all-state selections. He also participated in Student Council, one act play competition and the National Honor Society. He also has been a consistent volunteer at his high school and his church.

Knapp will graduate from Century High School and plans to study public health at the University of Alabama prior to applying to attend medical school to become an emergency physician. She competed on many academic teams and spent numerous hours volunteering throughout high school. She is also a member of the National Honor Society.

The scholarship was established by the Lignite Energy Council following the death of Jeff Burgess in 2009. Jeff was the director of research and development for the Lignite Energy Council at the time of his death. He was a graduate of both Bismarck High School and North Dakota State University.