Shelby Einhaus was honored as the 2024 Illinois Valley Community College Foundation 21st Century Scholar, receiving a $4,500 scholarship for her future studies in agriculture. The ceremony recognized 12 students with scholarships ranging from $1,000 to $4,500, celebrating their academic achievements and dedication to community service. Students must maintain a minimum 3.5 GPA as well as extensive college involvement and community service to qualify for the scholarship.
The daughter of Duane and Melissa Einhaus plans to study agriculture at a university next year. “The college’s belief in my potential means the world to me. The unwavering support of the Foundation, donors, instructors, and staff will always be appreciated,” Einhaus said.
In her speech accepting the $4,500 scholarship, Einhaus expressed gratitude for the award. “This award not only alleviates the financial burden of education, but also reinforces my determination to succeed in the agriculture industry,” she said.
The other three finalists each received $2,500 scholarships. They are Emma Garretson, Peru, daughter of Todd and Chris Garretson; Alexia Gross, Mendota, daughter of Christopher Gross, and Hannah Larsen, Ottawa, daughter of Devon and Stephanie Larsen.
Merit award winners receiving $1,250 each were: Travis Dougherty of Marseilles, son of John Dougherty and Nicole Vanda; Abigail Kunz of Mendota, daughter of Matthew and Stephanie Kunz and Garret Zinke of Mendota, son of Kyle and Heather Zinke and Nicole Zinke.
Special Recognition award winners receiving $1,000 each were: Courtney Bailey of Streator, daughter of Edward Jr. and Angila Bailey; Lydia Dornik of Peru, daughter of Kevin and Becky Dornik; Odin Klotz of Peru, son of Brian and Kelly Klotz; Creed McCormick of Peru, son of John and Holly McCormick, and Emma Walker of Ottawa, daughter of Aaron and Mindie Walker.
“The 21st Century Scholars Society is a wonderful opportunity for donors to meet and hear the stories of our students,” said Tracy Beattie , Executive Director of the IVCC Foundation. “Donors, guests, and students gather for dinner and a presentation where they learn the stories of each finalist. The students can speak to donors and thank them directly for their impact on their lives. It is truly a memorable evening for all.”
The 21st Century Scholars Society was established in 2007 to honor and reward IVCC’s most promising second-year students. Society members each contribute $500 annually. The Society has awarded more than $250,000 to 212 students, including $20,750 to 12 scholars this year.
