Name: GRANT TINKIS
Parents: Jerry and Gwen Tinkis, Colleyville, Texas
Grant was presented with this award at the 2022 Annual General Membership meeting. During the presentation of the award we got to read him a letter from Samuel Faske, Nathaniel’s brother. Here is what Samuel had to say to Grant regarding this award.
Nathaniel was a great brother to have that I didn’t deserve, and yet God blessed me to love him as family. He was a true man of character who I admire a lot. From a hard-working welder to being involved with family, Longhorns, and the youth of this industry, his priorities were putting others first and helping in any way possible.
There are 3 characteristics that Nathaniel had that I think fit perfectly into our candidate for this year’s scholarship.
1. After graduation Nathaniel was still involved with Longhorns and enjoyed talking with people to improve the breed. Many kids are involved in their youth and leave without much time to come back and be involved. Nathaniel made it a priority to come back and make time.
Grant too, makes staying involved with Longhorns a priority. Whether he be ring stewarding or entering his own animals for competition, Grant has continued to stay active in this industry and the Longhorn show world.
2. Nathaniel was involved with people on a deeper level than just saying hi and bye. He stood up for what was right and didn’t cower in conflict. The friendships he made were definitely made at more than just surface level.
It isn’t difficult to become friends with Grant. Just start a conversation about Longhorns and you’re hooked! Grant has never met a stranger and has never steered clear of starting a new friendship. He is always friendly and available to talk to; many people have learned they can count on him.
3. Lastly, Nathaniel had a great desire to be involved with the youth. There were many people in the breed that helped him succeed and he wanted to do the same for those younger than him. Giving back to the Longhorn community was a blessing for him.
We see these qualities in Grant too. He is always eager to get involved and willing to help. Sometimes he is side by side with adults, trying to navigate this new peer relationship. You will also still see Grant with the show kid; he is teaching them all he has learned, sharing stories, and helping where needed. Grant gives back to the Longhorn community any way he can and seems to genuinely enjoy it.