LaSalle County Veterans Assistance Commission Established Endowment for Veterans at IVCC
The La Salle County Veterans Assistance Commission (VAC) has established a $21,000 endowment to fund scholarships for veterans attending Illinois Valley Community College, as well as their children. The IVCC VAC Scholarship was made possible through proceeds from the La Salle County Veteran Expo. Lissa Olson with the La Salle County Veteran Service Office says the scholarship honors veterans’ courage and sacrifice while opening doors to education for their families. IVCC also supports active-duty and veteran students through its Veterans Benefits Office, located in the Financial Aid Department. Appointments and walk-ins are available.
“This scholarship is our way of honoring the courage, sacrifice, and unwavering commitment of our veterans,” said Lissa Olson, assistant superintendent, La Salle County Veteran Service Office. “We believe that their service should open doors of opportunity not only for them, but for their children as well. By investing in their education, we hope to support their dreams, strengthen their futures, and express our deepest gratitude in a meaningful and lasting way.”
Illinois Valley Community College is reminding student veterans and eligible family members that help with education benefits is available on campus. The Veteran Benefits Office is located inside IVCC’s Financial Aid Department in CTC 101R. Students can schedule an appointment, but walk-ins are also welcome. The office can assist with questions about veteran-related financial aid and benefits for those attending IVCC or planning to enroll. For more information, contact Veterans Benefits Advisor Allison Schweickert-Smith by phone at 815-224-0200 or by email at [email protected].
Pictured with Executive Director of the IVCC Foundation Tracy Beattie are representatives of La Salle County VAC (from left) Kelli Reitgraf, administrative assistant; Lissa Olson, assistant superintendent; Christa Hammers, superintendent, and Emily Hackler, veterans service officer.