Scholarship Funds

More than 80 Scholarship Funds exist through the DeKalb County Community Foundation. These Funds support undergraduate and graduate education, professional development, and other educational opportunities. The eligibility criteria, selection committee, school, and field of study vary and reflect the charitable wishes of the donors who established the Fund.

Most Community Foundation scholarships are administered through local high schools and use the Foundation's Universal Scholarship Application. A listing of these scholarships is found below. A few scholarships are administered through the Foundation and do not use the Universal Application. These awards are included below and listed in greater detail on the additional scholarships page.

Learn more or apply for a scholarship >

Below is a list (by high school) of Scholarship Funds and other Funds that provide annual scholarship awards for students. Thank you to the generous donors who support continuing education through a Fund at the Community Foundation!

Scholarships

Awards Available
Application Dates
Current Status
DeKalb County and Beyond
16February 1 - April 1
OR April 1 - June 1/July 1
Closed
DeKalb High School
32February 1 - April 1Closed
Genoa-Kingston High School
2February 1 - April 1Closed
Indian Creek High School
7February 1 - April 1Closed
Sandwich High School
1February 1 - April 1Closed
Somonauk High School
1February 1 - April 1Closed
Sycamore High School
32February 1 - April 1Closed

To discuss your charitable interests or to give back to the community by establishing a Fund of your own, please contact Executive Director Dan Templin at 815-748-5383 or dan@dekalbccf.org. For scholarship application questions, please review the list of frequently asked questions, or contact us at 815-748-5383 or scholarships@dekalbccf.org.

DeKalb County and Beyond Scholarships

Through donor generosity, the following Funds provide scholarship awards to students in DeKalb County and beyond.

Scholarship applications >

Barbara Swisher Holland ('55) & Richard C. Holland Fund

This Fund provides an award for a Millikin University (Decatur, IL) student pursuing a career in a healthcare related field.

Donate to the Barbara Swisher Holland ('55) & Richard C. Holland Fund >

Brian D. Slavenas Memorial Scholarship Fund

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 >

Donate to the Brian D. Slavenas Memorial Scholarship Fund >

CHS Elburn Scholarship Fund

Created as a lasting memory to the legacy of the Elburn Cooperative and to support the communities that strengthen the cooperative. This Fund provides educational support to high school graduates at an accredited college or university. Applicants must be a family member of an eligible CHS Elburn customer, or a family member of a CHS Elburn employee. This scholarship is administered by the Community Foundation. Learn more about this Fund >

Donate to the CHS Elburn Scholarship Fund >

Cindy Graves Nursing Scholarship Fund

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 >

Donate to the Cindy Graves Nursing Scholarship Fund >

Donald and Patricia Pritchard Scholarship Fund

This scholarship benefits a high school senior in DeKalb County who plans to attend the University of Illinois College of Agriculture, Consumer, and Environmental Sciences (ACES) or a current college student who is a graduate of a DeKalb County High School who is currently enrolled in the ACES program at University of Illinois. This scholarship is administered by the Community Foundation.

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 >

Donate to the Donald and Patricia Pritchard Scholarship Fund >

Dr. and Mrs. Harold P. Wells Scholarship Fund

A scholarship award for employees of the DeKalb Fire Department and their families and students in the Fire Science Program at the Kishwaukee Education Consortium. This Fund honors Dr. and Mrs. Harold P. Wells and carries on their legacy of love and support. This scholarship is administered by the Community Foundation. Learn more about this Fund >

Donate to the Dr. and Mrs. Harold P. Wells Scholarship Fund >

Ed and Kim Kapper Physical Therapy Scholarship Fund

Created in memory of Ed Kapper, this Fund provides scholarship support for a high school graduate of a DeKalb County school who is attending an accredited physical therapy program at an accredited college or university.

Donate to the Ed and Kim Kapper Physical Therapy Scholarship Fund >

Eleanor Anglin Price Scholarship Fund

An award to honor Eleanor Anglin Price, a professor at NIU for over two decades dedicated to community service in DeKalb County. Ms. Price's desire was to give students the same opportunity she experienced having received a scholarship herself when she went to school.

Donate to the Eleanor Anglin Price Scholarship Fund >

Jeffrey A. Trail Memorial Fund

Created in memory of Lt. Jeffrey A. Trail, this Fund provides an annual award to a graduating senior from the state of Illinois who plans to attend the United States Naval Academy. This scholarship is administered by the Community Foundation. Learn more about this Fund >

Donate to the Jeffrey A. Trail Memorial Fund >

Palmer Family Music Education Scholarship 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 >

Donate to the Palmer Family Music Education Scholarship Fund >

Renaissance Education Scholarship 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. Learn more about this Fund >

Donate to the Renaissance Education Scholarship Fund >

Spinoso Masters Scholarship (PASS THROUGH FUND)

Created through the generosity of John and Vivian Spinoso, this Pass Through Fund provides scholarship support for up to $10,000 to deserving students to cover tuition costs of post-undergraduate studies. Eligible applicants must have graduated from a DeKalb County high school but do not need to currently live in DeKalb County, IL. Learn more about this Fund >

Donate to the Spinoso Masters Scholarship Fund >

Virginia Larsen Nursing Scholarship Fund

Started in 2001 by Sycamore resident Virginia Larsen, this Fund provides financial assistance to support annual nursing scholarships to DeKalb County residents.

Donate to the Virginia Larsen Nursing Scholarship Fund >

Wayne McIlrath Family Scholarship Fund

A memorial Fund honoring Wayne McIlrath. This award is intended for a returning or continuing student pursuing education at Kishwaukee College to improve quality of life.

Donate to the Wayne McIlrath Family Scholarship Fund >

Wehrli Custom Fabrication Scholarship 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 >

Donate to the Wehrli Custom Fabrication Scholarship Fund >

YEP Changemakers Scholarship (PASS THROUGH FUND)

The YEP Changemakers Scholarship was created in 2022 by member Oliver Keicher. The intention was to recognize and reward members who embrace and value youth philanthropy in the community. Oliver fundraised for YEP in the 2022 Give DeKalb County event to raise $1,000 in donations to cover the inaugural scholarship. Support for future years is made possible through the family of Kurt D. Hudson in his memory. We are extremely grateful for this generous support to honor the life and memories of Kurt.

Funding for the YEP Changemakers Scholarship comes from the YEP Program Activities Fund, a Pass Through Fund. Additionally, this Fund supports direct program costs and activities of the Youth Engaged in Philanthropy (YEP) program. Learn more about YEP >

Donate to the YEP Program Activities Fund >

DeKalb High School Scholarships

Through donor generosity, the following Funds provide scholarship awards to DeKalb High School students.

Scholarship applications >

Barbara Cummings Memorial Scholarship Fund

Created in memory of Barbara Cummings by her family, this scholarship award is for a high school senior at DeKalb High School who intends to pursue a degree in teaching.

Donate to the Barbara Cummings Memorial Scholarship Fund >

Beatrice M. Stankus Memorial Scholarship Fund

This Fund is a memorial to Beatrice Stankus and provides scholarship support for graduating DeKalb High School seniors. Beatrice placed much value on education with her motto of "education is a lifelong process”. The award is selected by the DeKalb Education Foundation (DEF).

Donate to the Beatrice M. Stankus Memorial Scholarship Fund >

Charles and Carol Orr Memorial Scholarship Fund

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.

Donate to the Charles and Carol Orr Memorial Scholarship Fund >

Christopher E. Anderson 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).

Donate to the Christopher E. Anderson Memorial Scholarship Fund >

Dave Stoddard Memorial Scholarship Fund

This Fund provides scholarship support for DeKalb High School graduates living in the old Malta School District boundaries who are active in sports, FFA, and/or music, and demonstrate financial need.

Donate to the Dave Stoddard Memorial Scholarship Fund >

DHS Alumni Scholarship Fund

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 >

Donate to the DHS Alumni Scholarship Fund >

DeKalb High School Class of '63 Scholarship Fund

Commemorating the DeKalb High School Class of 1963, this Fund provides a scholarship award to a DeKalb High School student.

Donate to the DeKalb High School Class of '63 Scholarship Fund >

Donald 'Tank' Anderson Fund (DESIGNATED 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 >

Donate to the Donald 'Tank' Anderson Fund >

Edwin 'Skinny' Riippi Memorial Scholarship Fund

An award for a DeKalb High School student started by Doris Riippi in memory of her husband, Edwin 'Skinny' Riippi, a standout football player at DeKalb High School. The scholarship is for a student who played football and intends to pursue a degree in physical education or a related field.

Donate to the Edwin 'Skinny' Riippi Memorial Scholarship Fund >

Emmette and Kathleen Land Memorial Scholarship 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).

Donate to the Emmette and Kathleen Land Memorial Scholarship Fund >

Evelyn S. Nelson Fund

Created in memory of Evelyn S. Nelson, this Fund provides a scholarship award to deserving students at DeKalb High School. Selected by the DeKalb Education Foundation.

Donate to the Evelyn S. Nelson Fund >

Gregory B. Widerberg Memorial Scholarship Fund

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 >

Donate to the Gregory B. Widerberg Memorial Scholarship Fund >

Harland L. and Mable Orr Memorial Scholarship Fund

A Fund established in 2007 to honor Harland and Mable Orr. The award is for graduating DeKalb High School students pursuing any degree at any institution.

Donate to the Harland L. and Mable Orr Memorial Scholarship Fund >

James 'Jimmy' Vaughn Scholarship 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.

Donate to the James 'Jimmy' Vaughn Scholarship Fund >

James & Marjorie Lehan Family Scholarship 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 >

Donate to the James & Marjorie Lehan Family Scholarship Fund >

Jolynn Wisted Rogers Memorial Scholarship Fund

Established in memory of Jolynn Wisted Rogers, a DeKalb woman who passed away of cancer in 2005, this Fund provides an award for graduating DeKalb High School students attending NIU for Business or Marketing.

Donate to the Jolynn Wisted Rogers Memorial Scholarship Fund >

Joseph & Elegie LoCascio Scholarship 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.

Donate to the Joseph & Elegie LoCascio Scholarship Fund >

Keith and Viella Glidden Scholarship Fund

Provides an award to a DeKalb High School student demonstrating need, ability and desire. Selected by the DeKalb Education Foundation.

Donate to the Keith and Viella Glidden Scholarship Fund >

Kevin Ballantine Music Scholarship Fund

Created in memory of Kevin Ballantine, this scholarship award is for a graduating senior at DeKalb High School who is active in the school music program, leads by example, is encouraging to peers, and treats others as equals.

Donate to the Kevin Ballantine Music Scholarship Fund >

Kiwanis Club of DeKalb Scholarship Fund

An award in memory of Barry Haber, former DeKalb High School teacher, to benefit a DeKalb High School student attending Kishwaukee College.

Donate to the Kiwanis Club of DeKalb Scholarship Fund >

Malta Lions Club Scholarship Fund

An award to a DeKalb High School student who lives within the former Malta School District and demonstrates strong academics, community service, and involvement.

Donate to the Malta Lions Club Scholarship Fund >

Martha W. Shur Scholarship Fund

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 >

Donate to the Martha W. Shur Scholarship Fund >

Marybeth O'Brien McGill Scholarship Fund

This Fund provides an annual scholarship award to honor former DeKalb High School swim coach, Marybeth O'Brien-McGill. Each year the McGill Scholarship is awarded to a member of the DeKalb High School Girls swim team who demonstrated excellent academic performance.

Donate to the Marybeth O'Brien McGill Scholarship Fund >

Michael Heimerdinger Scholarship Fund

Provides an award to a DeKalb High School student athlete based upon the characteristics personified by Michael Heimerdinger, former NFL coach and student athlete who graduated in 1970.

Donate to the Michael Heimerdinger Scholarship Fund >

Michelle Jouris Memorial Scholarship Fund

Created in memory of Michelle Jouris, a 1982 graduate of DeKalb High School, who died much too young. This Fund provides scholarship support for DeKalb High School graduates pursuing a degree in elementary education, preferably at NIU, then Kishwaukee College.

Donate to the Michelle Jouris Memorial Scholarship Fund >

Randy Johnson Scholarship 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 >

Donate to the Randy Johnson Scholarship Fund >

Rebecca 'Becky' Parker Fund

A memorial award for DeKalb High School students established by friends to honor a courageous young girl who passed away at age of 16 and attended Malta schools.

Donate to the Rebecca 'Becky' Parker Fund >

Rowland and Lucile Matteson DeKalb High School Scholarship Fund

Created from the estate of Rowland and Lucile Matteson, this Fund provides a scholarship award for DeKalb High School students. Rowland and Lucille were strong supporters of education during their life together in DeKalb County.

Donate to the Rowland and Lucile Matteson DeKalb High School Scholarship Fund >

Sharon L. Rosenow Memorial Scholarship Fund

This Fund provides scholarship support for DeKalb High School graduates with a B average and majoring in education with a priority given to students intending to major in elementary education. Selected by the DeKalb Education Foundation (DEF).

Donate to the Sharon L. Rosenow Memorial Scholarship Fund >

Steven Streb Memorial Scholarship Fund

This Fund provides an award to a DeKalb High School student who has benefited from special education with goals to continue his or her education. Selected by the DeKalb Education Foundation (DEF).

Donate to the Steven Streb Memorial Scholarship Fund >

Suter Family Scholarship 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 >

Donate to the Suter Family Scholarship Fund >

Thomas R. Rauman Memorial Scholarship 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.

Donate to the Thomas R. Rauman Memorial Scholarship Fund >

Genoa-Kingston High School Scholarships

Through donor generosity, the following Scholarship Funds provide awards to Genoa-Kingston High School students.

Scholarship applications >

Brett and Thomas Kubasiak Scholarship Fund

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 >

Donate to the Brett and Thomas Kubasiak Scholarship Fund >

Marvin and Gladys Bridger Scholarship Fund

A memorial scholarship award for a Genoa-Kingston High School student established by the family of Marvin & Gladys Bridger to support a motivated and hard-working student.

Donate to the Marvin and Gladys Bridger Scholarship Fund >

Indian Creek High School Scholarships

Through donor generosity, the following Scholarship Funds provide awards to Indian Creek High School students.

Scholarship applications >

Charles and Carol Orr Memorial Scholarship Fund

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.

Donate to the Charles and Carol Orr Memorial Scholarship Fund >

Don and Nancy Pardridge Scholarship Fund

Created in 2023 by Don and Nancy Pardridge, this scholarship award is for a graduating high school senior from Indian Creek High School pursuing an elementary or secondary education degree at a 4-year college or university.

Donate to the Don and Nancy Pardridge Scholarship Fund >

Hicks Family 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 >

Donate to the Hicks Family Scholarship Fund >

Kathleen and Kenneth Spears Fund

Created by Kenneth and Kathleen Spears, this Fund provides an award for a graduating senior at Indian Creek High School.

Donate to the Kathleen and Kenneth Spears Fund >

Martenson Family Scholarship Fund

Created by the Martenson family, this Fund provides scholarship support to assist with educational expenses of a graduating senior from Indian Creek High School.

Donate to the Martenson Family Scholarship Fund >

Sheldon & Betty Kesner Scholarship Fund

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 >

Donate to the Sheldon & Betty Kesner Scholarship Fund >

Terry and Sherrie Martin Scholarship Fund

An award to a student from Indian Creek High School pursuing a degree in agriculture, environmental science, music, art, elementary education and allied health professions, with preference given to students attending NIU or Kishwaukee College.

Donate to the Terry and Sherrie Martin Scholarship Fund >

Sandwich High School Scholarships

Through donor generosity, the following Scholarship Funds provide awards to Sandwich High School students.

Scholarship applications >

Ben C. Eade Scholarship Fund

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 >

Donate to the Ben C. Eade Scholarship Fund >

Somonauk High School Scholarships

Through donor generosity, the following Scholarship Funds provide awards to Somonauk High School students.

Scholarship applications >

Bobcat Scholarship Fund

An award started by Mr. & Mrs. Alvin and Myrtie Warren to support a Somonauk High School student who is motivated and possesses good citizenship.

Donate to the Bobcat Scholarship Fund >

Sycamore High School Scholarships

Through donor generosity, the following Funds provide scholarship awards to Sycamore High School students.

Scholarship applications >

Annette & Jerry Johns Future Teacher Endowed Scholarship

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.

Donate to the Annette & Jerry Johns Future Teacher Endowed Scholarship >

A. Raymond and Lois H. (Sohne) Linden Scholarship Fund

Created in honor of Ray Linden and his wife Lois, this Fund provides generous scholarship support for Sycamore High School graduates attending NIU majoring in business or fine arts.

Donate to the A. Raymond and Lois H. (Sohne) Linden Scholarship Fund >

Cal & Helen Doty Memorial Scholarship

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 >

Donate to the Cal & Helen Doty Memorial Scholarship >

Christopher David Sanderson Memorial Scholarship Fund

A memorial Fund to honor Christopher David Sanderson, a young man who had a love of theatre arts. This scholarship award is for a graduating Sycamore High student pursuing a theatre or film career.

Donate to the Christopher David Sanderson Memorial Scholarship Fund >

Chuck Criswell Memorial Scholarship Fund

Created in 2018 as a lasting memory to Chuck Criswell, this scholarship is intended for a Sycamore HighSchool graduate with a track record of service to the community and has intent to enroll in a tradeschool, 2-or 4-year college, or university.

Donate to the Chuck Criswell Memorial Scholarship Fund >

DeKalb County Dental Society Fund

This Fund provides scholarship support for high school seniors from a DeKalb County high school determined by DeKalb County Dental Society.

Donate to the DeKalb County Dental Society Fund >

Donald D. Kendall Fund

This Fund provides an annual award for Sycamore High School students to memorialize Donald D. & Bernice Kendall who both valued education.

Donate to the Donald D. Kendall Fund >

Donald & Rosemary Redmond Memorial Scholarship Fund

This scholarship is given to a Sycamore High School graduate in honor of Mr. & Mrs. Redmond who were Sycamore residents and involved with the community. The award was originally established in 1981 in memory of Rosemary’s ten dedicated years of service as treasurer of Sycamore High School.

Donate to the Donald & Rosemary Redmond Memorial Scholarship Fund >

Evans Memorial Scholarship Fund

The scholarship is named in honor of Lowell Evans and awarded annually to a graduating senior from Sycamore High School pursuing a degree in business, engineering, or auto mechanics.

Donate to the Evans Memorial Scholarship Fund >

Fizz Ehrler Automotive Technology Scholarship 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.

Donate to the Fizz Ehrler Automotive Technology Scholarship Fund >

Gilbert 'Gib' Seegers Science Scholarship Fund

An award for a Sycamore High School (SHS) student that intends to pursue studies in the scientific field and exemplifies the qualities most remembered by Gib's students, the SHS faculty, and the community. The scholarship was established as a memorial by the family of Gilbert Seegers, an SHS science teacher.

Donate to the Gilbert 'Gib' Seegers Science Scholarship Fund >

Gina M. Delmont Memorial Scholarship Fund

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 >

Donate to the Gina M. Delmont Memorial Scholarship Fund >

Ibarra Family Scholarship 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 >

Donate to the Ibarra Family Scholarship Fund >

James & Marjorie Lehan Family Scholarship 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 >

Donate to the James & Marjorie Lehan Family Scholarship Fund >

John D. Meier Memorial Scholarship Fund

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.

Donate to the John D. Meier Memorial Scholarship Fund >

Julie Eggert Haka Memorial Scholarship Fund

Established by the Haka family, this Fund was created in honor of Julie Eggert Haka and provides an annual scholarship award for Sycamore High School graduates pursuing a degree in the field of medicine (emphasis on nursing).

Donate to the Julie Eggert Haka Memorial Scholarship Fund >

Keleher Family Scholarship Fund

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 >

Donate to the Keleher Family Scholarship Fund >

Kevin and Jean Bunge and Sons Scholarship Fund

Established in 2020 by the Bunge family, this Fund provides an annual scholarship award to a graduating senior from Sycamore High School.

Donate to the Kevin and Jean Bunge and Sons Scholarship Fund >

Liam P. Sullivan Memorial Scholarship Fund

This Fund is a tribute to the life of Liam Sullivan and awards an annual scholarship to a graduating senior at Sycamore High School in Sycamore, IL.

Donate to the Liam P. Sullivan Memorial Scholarship Fund >

Lillian S. Boynton Scholarship (DESIGNATED 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.

Donate to the Lillian S. Boynton Scholarship >

Luan and Greg Olson Scholarship Fund

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 >

Donate to the Luan and Greg Olson Scholarship Fund >

Lucille and Darryl Strack Scholarship Fund

This award contributes to the educational expenses of a graduating senior from Sycamore High School who will pursue a degree in education. This scholarship is renewable for one year as well.

Donate to the Lucille and Darryl Strack Scholarship Fund >

Madeline Middleton Scholarship Fund

A memorial award for Sycamore High School students established by Sycamore resident Madeline Middleton in her estate.

Donate to the Madeline Middleton Scholarship Fund >

Marian Elliott Scholarship Fund

This Fund provides scholarship support for a graduating senior from Sycamore High School planning to major in education and may also include previous Marian Elliott Scholarship award recipients who are eligible to re-apply for a renewal scholarship.

Donate to the Marian Elliott Scholarship Fund >

Patricia Woodstrup Memorial Scholarship Fund

Created in memory of Patricia Woodstrup, this Fund provides scholarship support for a Sycamore High School graduate studying education at NIU or Kishwaukee College.

Donate to the Patricia Woodstrup Memorial Scholarship Fund >

Rhoda Johnson Memorial Scholarship Fund

An award to memorialize Rhoda Johnson, a graduate of Sycamore High School & Northern Illinois University who taught DeKalb County youth for over 10 years. This award is intended for a Sycamore High School student intending to pursue a career in education.

Donate to the Rhoda Johnson Memorial Scholarship Fund >

Roy W. 'Smitty' & Cora E. Cody Smith Football Scholarship Fund

A memorial award for a Sycamore High School football player. This Fund honors a family synonymous with Spartan athletics.

Donate to the Roy W. 'Smitty' & Cora E. Cody Smith Football Scholarship Fund >

Steven 'Mr. G' Griglione Scholarship 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 >

Donate to the Steven 'Mr. G' Griglione Scholarship Fund >

Sundly Family Scholarship Fund

An award for a graduating senior from Sycamore High School who plans to attend Kishwaukee College (Malta) with an intended field of study in the areas of business, medical, or industrial engineering.

Donate to the Sundly Family Scholarship Fund >

Suter Family Scholarship 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 >

Donate to the Suter Family Scholarship Fund >

Sycamore Masonic Lodge Scholarship Fund

This Fund provides an award to support a Sycamore High School graduate who intends to pursue a career in healthcare.

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Wally 'Mr. Pumpkin' Thurow Scholarship 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.

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Fundholders have 24/7 access to their Fund through the Fund Portal. The portal provides you the ability to interact with your Fund via a secure, password protected website.

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