Electric cooperatives of Illinois to award 17 scholarships worth $2,500 each

ADAMS COUNTY Ill. — Electric cooperatives across Illinois are committed to investing in youths through scholarships that honor the legacy of the cooperative family but also fuel the dreams and goals of tomorrow’s leaders.

The electric cooperatives of Illinois will award 17 scholarships, each worth $2,500, to outstanding students from the electric cooperative family through the Thomas H. Moore Illinois Electric Cooperatives (IEC) Memorial Scholarship Program.

“This isn’t just about financial aid — it’s also about empowering students,” Jim Thompson, Adams Electric general manager, said in a press release. “While honoring those who came before us, we’re also investing in the future. Illinois’ electric cooperatives are constantly searching for ways to spark positive change in our communities. Supporting our youth through scholarship programs like this is one of the impactful ways we help shape tomorrow.”

Below is a brief rundown of the scholarships available.

Ten scholarships will be awarded to high school seniors whose parent(s) are Illinois electric co-op members.

The Earl W. Struck Memorial Scholarship is reserved for a student whose parent is an Illinois electric cooperative employee or director.

Five scholarships are dedicated to students enrolling full-time at a two-year Illinois community college and are children of an electric cooperative member in Illinois.

The LaVern and Nola McEntire Memorial Lineworker’s Scholarship is designed for people pursuing a career in linework and are enrolled or plan to enroll at Lincoln Land Community College’s lineworker program. This scholarship supports students of co-op members, relatives of employees or directors and those who have served or are currently serving in the armed forces or National Guard.

The general scholarship application deadline is Dec. 31. The lineworker scholarship is due by April 30. For more information, contact Laura Bergman at Adams Electric Cooperative or visit http://adamselectric.coop. Information has been shared with area high school guidance counselors.

“This is a great opportunity for the next wave of bright minds within our co-op community,” Thompson said. “These scholarships will help ensure that our future is powered by knowledge and a shared commitment to excellence. Let’s light the way to a brighter tomorrow.”