Scholarship Funds
With over 100 Scholarship Funds, the DeKalb County Community Foundation proudly supports education in all its forms. Our scholarships empower students to pursue undergraduate and graduate degrees, trade and technical training, and other educational opportunities. Each scholarship reflects the unique charitable vision of its donor, with varying eligibility criteria, selection processes, schools, and fields of study.
To simplify the application process, we offer a Universal Scholarship Application, making it easier for students to apply. Many awards are administered through local schools. Explore the Scholarship Funds below to discover opportunities for students throughout DeKalb County, local high schools, and beyond.
Ready to make a difference?
If supporting education is close to your heart, consider donating to an existing Scholarship Fund or creating one of your own. Let’s discuss your charitable goals and how to build a Fund that reflects your values and vision. Contact Executive Director Dan Templin at 815-748-5383 or dan@dekalbccf.org.
For scholarship application details, visit our FAQ or contact us at 815-748-5383 or scholarships@dekalbccf.org.
List of Scholarship Funds
Below is a list of Scholarship Funds and other Funds, organized by high school, that provide annual awards for students. We are deeply grateful to the generous donors whose support makes continuing education more accessible and impactful for local students.
Scholarships | Awards Available | Application Dates |
|---|---|---|
DeKalb County and Beyond | 21 | February 1 - April 1 |
DeKalb High School | 34 | February 1 - April 1 |
Genoa-Kingston High School | 5 | February 1 - April 1 |
Hiawatha High School | 1 | February 1 - April 1 |
Indian Creek High School | 9 | February 1 - April 1 |
Sandwich High School | 1 | February 1 - April 1 |
Somonauk High School | 2 | February 1 - April 1 |
Sycamore High School | 38 | February 1 - April 1 |
DeKalb County and Beyond Scholarships
Through donor generosity, the following Funds provide scholarship awards to students in DeKalb County and beyond.
This Fund supports scholarships for students meeting one of two sets of eligibility criteria.
- Graduating seniors from Kaneland and Burlington Central High Schools who are admitted to 4-year colleges or universities
- Residents of the Kaneland and Burlington school districts who are pursuing studies in manual or cultural arts at Waubonsee Community College.
The Bob Suddeth 4-H Scholarship supports DeKalb County graduating seniors who have been active in 4-H for at least six years, including their senior year of high school, and who plan to pursue agriculture-related education. Financial need is an important consideration, and students may attend any accredited trade school, college, or university. There is no minimum GPA requirement.
The Fund honors Brian D. Slavenas, a DeKalb High School graduate who was killed in Iraq (2003). The scholarship is awarded annually to a graduating high school senior who is a resident of DeKalb County, IL, and going on to either major or minor in music. Preference is given to applicants who were involved in music during at least the last two years of high school. Learn more about the Brian D. Slavenas Memorial Endowment Fund >
This Fund was created as a lasting memory to the legacy of the Elburn Cooperative and to support the communities that strengthen the cooperative. Learn more about this Fund >
The CHS Inc. Scholarship is available to high school graduates and current undergraduate students at an accredited college or university. Applicants must be a family member of an eligible CHS Inc. customer or employee. This scholarship is administered by the Community Foundation.
This scholarship is intended for students who are pursuing an additional degree or certification in nursing to grow professionally and better serve their patients. Preference is given to student applicants currently working in and/or pursuing additional education in the nursing specialization areas of: Public health nursing, emergency medicine, or pediatrics. Students may attend any accredited educational institution, college, or university.
This Fund honors Cindy Graves, a DeKalb County public health nurse who had a tremendous impact on the community. Cindy was a registered nurse at Kishwaukee Hospital for 30 years – working as a pediatric nurse and emergency room RN, house supervisor, ER charge nurse, EMS educator, EMS coordinator, and ER director (2005 – 2012). From 2012 until the time of her passing Cindy worked at the DeKalb County Health Department as the director of community health and prevention, health promotion and emergency preparedness. Cindy was very active in the community and with her church. Learn more about this Fund >
The purpose of the Fund is to contribute to the educational expenses for students who are permanent residents of DeKalb County, IL. currently enrolled or committed to beginning a college degree or health-related program(s) that prepare students for careers in the allied health professions, and have an immediate family member employed by Northwestern Medicine Kishwaukee Hospital or Northwestern Medicine Valley West Hospital; or is a volunteer at either hospital.
View guidelines for the DeKalb County Healthcare Professional Scholarship >
The Fund was created by Donald and Patricia Pritchard who have strong ties to DeKalb County even though life and work have led them to live in several other states. They dedicated their careers to working in the field of animal sciences and agriculture. Both Don and Patricia know the value of a college education, having worked in various capacities in the university system. They know, because of their experiences with many students over the years, how education can contribute to a successful future. Learn more about this Fund >
The Donald and Patricia Pritchard Scholarship benefits a high school senior in DeKalb County who plans to attend, or is currently enrolled at the University of Illinois College of Agriculture, Consumer, and Environmental Sciences (ACES). This scholarship is administered by the Community Foundation.
This Fund honors Dr. and Mrs. Harold P. Wells and carries on their legacy of love and support. Learn more about this Fund >
The Dr. and Mrs. Harold P. Wells Scholarship is available to City of DeKalb Fire Department employees, retirees, and their immediate family or Kishwaukee Education Consortium Fire Sciences Program graduates.
The Wells Scholarship can also be used to offset expenses for any educational purpose. Some examples include college tuition, any fire course, short academic courses, conferences, and camps, such as music and space camps. This scholarship is administered by the Community Foundation.
View guidelines for the Dr. and Mrs. Harold P. Wells Scholarship >
This scholarship supports past or current Illinois residents who are either accepted for enrollment or currently enrolled as a full-time student at an approved college of medicine. Applicants must be U.S. citizens. Preference is given to female applicants and current or former residents of DeKalb County, IL.
Created in memory of Lt. Jeffrey A. Trail in honor of his military service and accomplishments, this Fund offers scholarships to DeKalb County residents who are graduating seniors and continuing their education immediately following high school graduation at an accredited two-year or four-year college or university studying aviation technology (a.k.a. professional flight or similar degree) for pilot training only; or at an independent certified flight training program working toward flight/pilot certifications. Learn more about this Fund >
The Jesus Romero Scholarship Fund supports students of Hispanic or Latino heritage who are enrolled at Kishwaukee College.
Established in 2012, this endowed scholarship honors Jesus Romero, a proud Kishwaukee College alumnus who has raised tens of thousands of dollars through his annual Cinco de Mayo celebrations to help Hispanic students pursue college degrees.
Now held at DeKalb County Community Foundation, the Fund continues his legacy by helping students overcome financial barriers and achieve their educational dreams for years to come.
The purpose of the Fund is to contribute to the educational expenses of students at Northern Illinois University in DeKalb, IL. Students must have a minimum 3.0 GPA, be from a small town, demonstrate financial need, and participate in the NIU Marching Band program, which includes band, Color Guard, Silverettes, and/or Auxiliary. Learn more about this Fund >
Dee Palmer, his brother, parents, and grandparents have contributed to the musical pleasure of thousands of people in DeKalb County for over 160 years. The establishment of the Palmer Family Music Education Scholarship Fund is in their honor and provides an award for a high school senior who resides in DeKalb County and is pursuing a career in music. This scholarship is administered by the Community Foundation. Learn more about this Fund >
This Fund was created in 2007 by retired Sycamore teacher Yvonne Johnson and provides scholarship support to an individual who has been in the work force and desires to return to the academic world in pursuit of a college degree. The award is renewable up to three consecutive years following the initial award and can be used for tuition at any accredited university or community college for expenses associated with undergraduate study. The recipient can seek a degree in any field of study, but must demonstrate evidence of interest in the chosen field. This scholarship is administered by the Community Foundation.
The Field of Interest Fund reflects the Samardzija-Gutesha family’s values and commitment to giving back. It supports education and hands-on learning in farming, soil health, and water conservation, with a focus on FFA members and associate-level college students.
Scholarships benefit graduating seniors and second-year post-high school students who are originally from DeKalb County high schools with FFA programs. Learn more about this Fund >
The Wehrli Custom Fabrication company created the scholarship to aid students interested in pursuing a career in the trades. The Fund supports two annual scholarships. The first is for a student attending a trade school or 2-year college, and the second benefits a student attending a 4-year college or university. Eligible areas of study include welding, machine tooling, auto mechanics, auto body, business management, and mechanical, industrial, manufacturing, or agricultural engineering. Learn more about this Fund >
The YEP Changemakers Scholarship Fund was created by Foundation Board member and YEP Board advisor Brenda Jergens and her family to honor the life and memory of Kurt D. Hudson. The Fund provides annual support for the YEP Changemakers Scholarship, which recognizes Youth Engaged in Philanthropy members who show leadership, service, and a strong commitment to their communities.
The scholarship began in 2022 when YEP member Oliver Keicher fundraised for the inaugural award during the Give DeKalb County event. His idea was to give YEP members an opportunity to experience the other side of philanthropy, the receiving side of it, and to recognize students who embody what they have learned through their YEP experience. Learn more about this Fund >
DeKalb High School Scholarships
Through donor generosity, the following Funds provide scholarship awards to DeKalb High School students.
Created in memory of Charles and Carol Orr, this scholarship award is for a high school senior at DeKalb High School or Indian Creek High School pursuing a degree in healthcare, agriculture, or the trades. Learn more about the Charles and Carol Orr Memorial Scholarship Fund >
This Fund was created in memory of Christopher Anderson, an ambitious student dedicated to athletics. The award supports a DeKalb High School student who exhibits the same spirit, teamwork, and enthusiasm on the soccer field and in the classroom. The award is selected by the DeKalb Education Foundation (DEF).
Created through the generosity of DeKalb High School (DHS) alumni, this Fund awards scholarships to graduating DHS seniors pursuing continuing education and training for career advancement. Students attending a vocational-technical school, trade school, two-year college, four-year college, or university are eligible. Learn more about the DHS Alumni Scholarship Fund >
Created in memory of Donald 'Tank' Anderson, this Designated Fund provides support to the DeKalb Wrestling Club inc. (DeKalb County, IL) and provides a scholarship award to a graduating senior from DeKalb High School. Learn more about this Fund >
Created in memory of Emmette Land, an avid sports fan, and Kathleen Land, a talented musician who valued community, honesty, and integrity. This Fund provides scholarship support for a student who has participated in an organized athletic or music program at DeKalb High School and maintained at least a “B” average". Recipient is selected by the DeKalb Education Foundation (DEF).
Created in memory of Gregory B. Widerberg for his love of education and sports, this scholarship is awarded on an annual basis to a DeKalb High School senior majoring in education. Learn more about this Fund >
This Fund provides scholarship support for a DeKalb High School graduate who participated in sports at DeKalb High School and demonstrated a value system consistent with Jimmy Vaughn's life of putting others above self. This may include a history of volunteerism or community service within the high school and/or greater community.
This Fund provides scholarship support for students from Sycamore High School and DeKalb High School with preference to students who intend to enter a healthcare field. Learn more about this Fund >
Created in memory of Jim Rhoades, the Jim Rhoades Law Enforcement Scholarship Fund supports DeKalb High School graduates pursuing a degree in law enforcement. The Scholarship is open to students enrolled in an accredited trade school, two-year college, or four-year institution. There is no minimum GPA requirement, and financial need is not considered as part of the selection process. Learn more about this Fund >
Created by DeKalb High School alumni to honor Joseph and Elegie LoCascio for their work as writing arts/creative writing instructors at DeKalb High School and the impact they made on students. This Fund provides an award to a graduating senior from DeKalb High School who has shown outstanding dedication to the art of creative writing.
Established in memory of Martha W. Shur by her children, this Fund provides an award to a graduating female senior from DeKalb High School who participated in girls track/cross country at the school. Learn more about this Fund >
This Fund provides scholarship support for a DeKalb High School graduating senior pursuing a degree in science, technology, engineering or mathematics. Learn more about this Fund >
Established by the Rosenow family, this Fund provides scholarship support for two DeKalb High School graduates each year.
(1.) The Sharon L. Rosenow Memorial Scholarship supports students with a B average who are majoring in education, with priority given to those planning to major in elementary education.
(2.) The Edward J. Rosenow Scholarship supports a student seeking a degree or certification in Computer Aided Drafting, Architecture, or a related field such as Design Engineering, Mechanical Design or Engineering, Project Technician studies, Robotics and Automation, General Engineering, or AutoCAD Drafting.
Recipients are selected by the DeKalb Education Foundation.
Contributes to the educational expenses of a graduating senior from DeKalb High School in DeKalb, IL, with financial need who demonstrates the qualities of integrity, honesty, hard work, and grit, attending any 2-year college or trade school in any area of study. Learn more about this Fund >
Provides an annual award to graduates at both DeKalb and Sycamore high schools. The Charles & Helen Suter Memorial Scholarship award will honor the late Charles and Helen Suter, their love for education and learning, and the family’s ongoing service to the community. Learn more about this Fund >
An award for DeKalb High School students to honor Thomas R. Rauman who was respected for his integrity and served the DeKalb County community through the YMCA and the Kishwaukee Kiwanis. Selected by the DeKalb Education Foundation. Support is awarded to graduating students with a B average and some financial need.
Genoa-Kingston High School Scholarships
Through donor generosity, the following Scholarship Funds provide awards to Genoa-Kingston High School students.
Established in memory of Brett and Thomas Kubasiak. This Fund will provide scholarships for graduating seniors at Genoa-Kingston High School. Learn more about this Fund >
This scholarship was created in memory of Eric J. Gabriel and contributes to the educational expenses of a graduating senior from Genoa-Kingston High School, Somonauk High School, and/or Sycamore High School in DeKalb County, IL, who has an interest in agricultural education and made a positive impact on their community. Learn more about this Fund >
Hiawatha High School Scholarships
Through donor generosity, the following Scholarship Funds provide awards to Hiawatha High School students.
The Shirley Lorenz Yates Scholarship Fund was established in memory of Shirley Yates, a beloved Hiawatha educator who dedicated 31 years to teaching. Created through the estate of her son, Steven Yates, and with the support of her daughter, Jean Klock, this Fund provides scholarships for graduating seniors from Hiawatha High School in Kirkland, Illinois, who attended Hiawatha High School for at least three years. Preference is given to students pursuing a degree in Education. As the first endowed Scholarship Fund designated specifically for Hiawatha graduates at the Community Foundation, it creates a lasting legacy that honors Shirley’s passion for teaching and commitment to her community. Learn more about this Fund.
Indian Creek High School Scholarships
Through donor generosity, the following Scholarship Funds provide awards to Indian Creek High School students.
Created in memory of Charles and Carol Orr, this scholarship award is for a high school senior at DeKalb High School or Indian Creek High School pursuing a degree in healthcare, agriculture, or the trades. Learn more about the Charles and Carol Orr Memorial Scholarship Fund >
This Fund is a tribute to the late James and Claudia Hicks and honors the legacy of the Hicks family and their impact on education and community service to the Indian Creek Community. The scholarship is intended for a graduating senior from Indian Creek High School with financial needs pursuing a degree in education. Learn more about the Hicks Family Scholarship Fund >
Created by Kenneth and Kathleen Spears, this Fund will become active and endowed by a future planned gift and will provide an award for a graduating senior at Indian Creek High School. Interested applicants should contact the Indian Creek High School Counseling Department for more information about the current Ken Spears Construction Scholarship opportunity.
Created in memory of Sheldon and Betty Kesner, this Fund provides annual awards to graduates of Indian Creek High School. One award is for a student pursuing a degree in agriculture, the other award is for a student pursuing a degree in music or education. Learn more about this Fund >
Sandwich High School Scholarships
Through donor generosity, the following Scholarship Funds provide awards to Sandwich High School students.
Created in memory of Ben Eade, this scholarship provides support for a graduating senior from Sandwich High School. Ben taught agriculture and biology for nearly 43 years at Sandwich High School and inspired many students to excel in various tradeschool- based careers. Learn more about this Fund >
Somonauk High School Scholarships
Through donor generosity, the following Scholarship Funds provide awards to Somonauk High School students.
This scholarship was created in memory of Eric J. Gabriel and contributes to the educational expenses of a graduating senior from Genoa-Kingston High School, Somonauk High School, and/or Sycamore High School in DeKalb County, IL, who has an interest in agricultural education and made a positive impact on their community. Learn more about this Fund >
Sycamore High School Scholarships
Through donor generosity, the following Funds provide scholarship awards to Sycamore High School students.
This Fund provides generous scholarship support for Sycamore High School graduates pursuing a career in teaching or a previous recipient (beginning with the 2019 recipient) who is still enrolled in undergraduate studies and pursuing a degree in education. Jerry and Annette Johns are Sycamore residents who value education and their community.
Created in memory of Cal and Helen Doty, this scholarship is available to a graduating Sycamore High School student who plans to pursue a certificate or degree in the trades. Learn more about this Fund >
The Fund provides scholarship support to graduating seniors from Sycamore High School who have demonstrated a strong record of community service in and out of school settings. The scholarship serves as a lasting tribute to Jim Dombek and his lifelong commitment to education, youth, and community service. Learn more about this Fund >
This scholarship is given to a Sycamore High School graduate in honor of Mr. & Mrs. Redmond who were Sycamore residents and very involved with the community. While the award was originally established through Sycamore High School in 1981 in memory of Rosemary’s ten dedicated years of service as treasurer of Sycamore High School, this endowed scholarship Fund was established at the Community Foundation in 2013 with memorial contributions received after Donald's passing.
This scholarship was created in memory of Eric J. Gabriel and contributes to the educational expenses of a graduating senior from Genoa-Kingston High School, Somonauk High School, and/or Sycamore High School in DeKalb County, IL, who has an interest in agricultural education and made a positive impact on their community. Learn more about this Fund >
This Fund was created to honor longtime Sycamore businessman and car buff, Fizz Ehrler, and provides scholarship support for graduating Sycamore High School seniors pursuing study/training in auto mechanics technology, collision repair technology, and diesel power technology at Kishwaukee College, Malta, IL.
The Gilbert “Gib” Seegers Science Scholarship Fund supports a Sycamore High School student pursuing studies in a scientific field who demonstrates the character, curiosity, and dedication remembered by Gib’s students, colleagues, and the broader community. The scholarship was established by the Seegers family in memory of Gilbert “Gib” Seegers, a longtime Sycamore High School science teacher.
Honoring Sycamore native Gina Delmont, this scholarship award sees that her spirit of giving lives on and benefits a Sycamore High School graduate pursuing higher education at Kishwaukee College or Northern Illinois University in either the education or healthcare-related fields. Learn more about this Fund >
Created to provide an annual award to a Sycamore High School graduate of Mexican ethnic origin. This award honors Maria De Jesus Ibarra, who worked tirelessly to support her family and encourage ongoing education for her children Learn more about this Fund >
This Fund provides scholarship support for students from Sycamore High School and DeKalb High School with preference to students who intend to enter a healthcare field. Learn more about this Fund >
Established in memory of Joey Warren, this scholarship supports a graduating senior from Sycamore High School who participated in boys soccer. Preference will be given to students who played during their senior year and who reflect Joey's adventurous spirit, love of a challenge, fearlessness on the soccer field, strong work ethic, willingness to help others, and ability to be a friend to all.
A memorial Fund honoring John Meier, a graduate of Sycamore High School, which provides scholarship support for Sycamore High School graduates who will study forestry, biology, animal science, architecture, or other nature related activities. John was a carpenter who passed away in 2006 from anaphylactic shock as a result of a bee sting. He was the first full organ donor at Kishwaukee Hospital. He had many interests including gardening, landscape, wildlife management, and forestry. He would be proud to help students from Sycamore High School further their education.
Prompted by the generosity of the Keleher family, this Fund provides scholarship awards to Sycamore High School graduates with a minimum GPA of 3.0 and who have demonstrated a history of volunteerism, work, and/or club involvement during their high school career. Learn more about this Fund >
This Designated Fund benefits five local organizations, including two annual scholarships for Sycamore High School students. Created in 2000, this memorial Fund is a bequest from the estate of Lillian Boynton, a very active and successful businesswoman in the Sycamore community.
This Fund provide an annual award to a graduate of Sycamore High School. The Olsons were scholarship recipients when they attended college and thus wanted to create a Fund that would “pay forward” the generosity they experienced. The award is intended for a student majoring in the College of Agricultural, Consumer, and Environmental Sciences (ACES) at the University of Illinois or the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences (CLAS) at Northern Illinois University in their undergraduate studies. Learn more about this Fund >
This scholarship supports graduates of Sycamore High School who intend to major in social work, sociology, nursing, or special education. Applicants majoring in human development and family studies, kinesiology, speech and hearing sciences, applied health professions, community health, pre-physical therapy/BS in health sciences, family and child studies, or similar baccalaureate degree programs, or another undergraduate degree study with in-depth exposure to nursing, special education, social work, or sociology, in the context of a four-year degree program, may be considered. Past recipients may re-apply.
Established in 2026 by Mary Grimes in honor of her parents, Robert and Laura Carlson, the Fund supports graduating seniors from Sycamore High School in Sycamore, Illinois. The Fund is intended to recognize students who exemplify the Carlsons’ values of consistent, dependable, hard-working character and a never-quit attitude. Learn more about this Fund >
Created in loving memory of Ryan Hill, this Fund provides scholarships to Sycamore High School graduates to support their continuing education.
The scholarship honors students who reflect the character qualities Ryan was known for, including kindness, inclusivity, humility, and quiet grit. Recipients are students who make others feel welcome and valued, whether on the field, on the stage, at work, or in the hallway. They show up for others, put team before self, work hard, and bring joy and lightness wherever they go. The Fund also values students who appreciate community, family, roots, and a strong sense of belonging. Learn more about this Fund >
This Fund is a tribute to the late Steven Griglione and honors his impact on music education in the community. The scholarship is intended for a graduating senior who participated in music classes and/or programs all four years at Sycamore High School and is continuing studies in music education or general education. Learn more about this Fund >
Provides an annual award to graduates at both DeKalb and Sycamore high schools. The Charles & Helen Suter Memorial Scholarship award will honor the late Charles and Helen Suter, their love for education and learning, and the family’s ongoing service to the community. Learn more about this Fund >
Created in memory of Wally “Mr. Pumpkin” Thurow, this Fund provides an award to a graduating Sycamore High School student with financial needs who displays artistic creativity and community involvement. Wally was founder of the Sycamore Pumpkin Festival. The Festival began in 1962. With support of the Sycamore Lions Club and eventually most of the service organizations in and around Sycamore, it has grown to become the area’s largest annual event.
