DeKalb County Students Awarded Over $436,000 in Scholarships

This year, the DeKalb County Community Foundation has awarded significant financial support to local students, distributing over $436,000 in scholarships to 169 recipients. The awards, totaling 214 individual scholarships, reflect an average amount exceeding $2,500 per recipient, indicating a substantial increase compared to previous years.

In addition to the overall funding, the foundation allocated $51,925 specifically for students attending two-year colleges and trade schools for the upcoming fall semester. Support for students enrolled in four-year institutions reached $285,100, while postgraduate scholars received $99,050 in assistance.

Breakdown of Scholarships by School

The distribution of scholarships varied among local high schools, with the following totals awarded:

– **DeKalb High School**: $70,400
– **Genoa-Kingston High School**: $41,250
– **Indian Creek High School**: $25,600
– **Sandwich High School**: $5,700
– **Somonauk High School**: $12,600
– **Sycamore High School**: $91,825
– **Non-local high school**: $15,200

Locally, students from Kishwaukee College received $39,625 across 26 awards, while those attending Northern Illinois University were granted $59,050 through 31 awards.

The scholarships are funded by generous contributions from individuals and organizations who recognize the importance of education. Many donors establish scholarship funds to commemorate a loved one, support students pursuing specific career paths, or celebrate personal achievements.

New Scholarships Established

Among the new scholarships introduced this year are the DeKalb High School Outstanding ESL Student Scholarship, the Dombek Family Community Service Scholarship, the Samardzija-Gutesha FFA Scholarship, and the Sharon Sue Betts Wiggins Mier Scholarship. These additions enhance the variety of funding options available to students in the area.

Students interested in applying for scholarships can contact their high school counseling department for guidance. Further details are available on the foundation’s website at dekalbccf.org/scholarships. For inquiries or additional information, interested parties can reach out to Sara Nickels at 815-748-5383 or via email at [email protected].

The support provided through these scholarships plays a crucial role in enabling students to pursue their higher education goals, significantly impacting the community’s future.