Rock Island - Milan Education Foundation Scholarships

Nell Althoff Family Memorial Scholarship

Nell Althoff was a beloved first grade teacher in Rock Island for forty years. Her daughters, Suzanne and Diane (who were RI students) were also educated to be elementary teachers. Nell's family established this scholarship in honor of their dedication to her students and their families. Up to four scholarships will be awarded to students pursuing a degree in education. Award: $2,500/multiple students

Charles O. Austin Leadership Scholarship

Established in 1984 by Mr. Austin in appreciation for his years of work as Principal of Rock Island High School from 1951 – 1965 and Superintendent of the Rock Island-Milan Public Schools from 1966 – 1973. The teachers of Rock Island High School nominate senior students whom they believe have displayed leadership qualities. The nominees are then interviewed by a panel who selects the recipient. Award: $2,000

Bally's Quad Cities Scholarship

As a strong supporter of initiatives in the Rock Island-Milan schools and the Education Foundation, Bally's generously funds scholarships to honor three outstanding RIHS graduates who have demonstrated academic and social achievement. The awards are open to students with a 3.0 GPA or better. Consideration is given to financial need, demonstrated leadership skills, and participation in school and community service. Three scholarships will be awarded: one for $3,000, one for $2,000, and one for $1,000.

Carole S. Barkan Memorial Scholarship

This scholarship was established by her family in memory of Carole's life devoted to home-bound tutoring and advocating on behalf of students in need. First preference is given to students who have utilized the school district's homebound tutoring program, with additional selection based on financial need and GPA. The award may be used at any accredited university or college, apprentice program, or vocational/tech school. Award: $1,000

Boeye Family Scholarship

Members of the Boeye Family established this scholarship with a $20,000 donation in recognition of the many family members who attended Rock Island High School. The scholarship is for students involved in extra curricular activities and volunteering in the community. The students must have a 3.0 GPA or better. Preference is given to students pursuing a degree in business, education, or liberal arts. Award: $2,000

Grant W. and Virginia M. Brissman Scholarship

Established in honor of the Brissmans with funding provided by their legacy gift to the Education Foundation, this scholarship awards a senior who must be a resident of the Village of Milan. Preference is given to a student entering the Trades (welding, automotive, etc.) or who pursues a career as a CNA or Nursing. Preference also given to students with GPA of 2.5-3.0. Award: $4,000 given over 2 years.

RIHS Class of 1961 Scholarship

Funded by the graduating class of 1961 who all wanted to help multiple deserving Rocky grads. The scholarships (multiple) are awarded to students with a 3.0–3.5 GPA. Strong consideration is given to financial need, intent to remain in the Quad Cities long-term, and career aspirations. Award: $1000/multiple awards

Class of 1963 "First in the Family" Scholarship

The Class of 1963 has established this scholarship to award those students who are the first of their families to pursue any post secondary education (traditional 4-year college/university, junior college, trade school, etc.) The student must demonstrate a history of continued academic improvement while attending Rock Island High School. Award: $1,000

RIHS Class of 1965 Scholarship

The Class of 1965 funded this scholarship to award the Rocky grads of the future. The award is based on financial need, citizenship, good academic standing, school and community activities. Award: $500

Stanley H. Coin Business Scholarship

American Bank & Trust established this scholarship to honor Stanley H. Coin, an RIHS graduate, for his years of dedication as a leader in the community and philanthropy. The award is available to Senior in top 25% of the class who have participated in the business curriculum at Rocky for at least two years. Financial need, and school and community involvement are considered. Award: $1,000

Donald E. Devinney Business and Business Education Scholarship

Mr. Devinney, an RIHS 1954 graduate, taught in the RI school district for many years. He established this scholarship with a $55,000 donation to assist student pursuing a degree in business or business education. Consideration is given to students who have worked part-time during high school. Award: $2,000 annually for four years, totaling $8,000.

Troy H. Ellis Scholarship

Troy Ellis was a 1987 graduate of RIHS where he lettered as a 4-year member of the golf team. Troy graduated from the U. of Iowa and U of Missouri-Kansas City School of Law. He became a successful attorney and remained an avid golfer throughout his life. This scholarship was established by Troy's family and friends in honor of Troy and his love of golf. The recipient must have a GPA of 3.0-4.0, minimum of 2 years on the RIHS golf team, and a personal letter stating why they love golf and the life lessons it has taught them. Award: $1,500

Barbara Fackel AVID Scholarship

Barbara Fackel was an active community member and staunch supporter of Rock Island-Milan Schools. Barbara's family established this scholarship to honor her belief that a quality education makes a difference. AVID is a college readiness program geared toward providing support for students to be successful in life. The award is given to a student who has completed 4 years of the AVID program, maintained a minimum GPA of 3.5, and completed 15-20 hours of a service learning project. Recommendation must come from an AVID instructor. Award: $1,000.

"Failure is Not an Option" the Candice Hinze Williams Drama Scholarship

Established to keep her memory alive, this scholarship was established in honor of Candice Hinze Williams (Rocky Class of 1986.) Candice was a drama teacher and dedicated to improving the lives of young people. While battling illness, Candice adopted the motto "Failure is Not an Option" which exemplified her spunky, determined attitude. Students interested in pursuing drama in a college/university must complete an essay and submit to the RIMEF.  A special committee will review the essays and award the scholarship based upon the strength of the essay and academics. A copy of the student's transcript is also required. Award: $1,000

Ben D. and Nancy K. Brown Farrar Scholarship

Established by former Rock Island teacher Nancy K. Brown to honor the couple's commitment to the importance of good education and our Rock Island-Milan schools. The award is based on financial need, good work ethic and potential for success. A written recommendation must come from a teacher. Special consideration is given to students who have a 2.5-3.5 GPA. Award: $2,000.

Jim and Doug Franz Memorial Scholarship

A 1979 RIHS graduate, Doug Franz died unexpectedly in 2014. In tribute to his memory, his sister, Sarah Franz Wheeler (Class of 1986) established this scholarship. The award is for a student who will attend the University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign. Preference is given to students planning to major in engineering who have proven, during their high school career, to be dedicated student-athletes with strong moral character. Award: $1,500.

Rick Gilliland Scholarship

Mr. Gilliland was a long-time teacher in the Rock Island-Milan School District who touched the lives of thousands of children during his career. His family established this scholarship in his memory. The award is for a student who is planning to attend Black Hawk College, with a preference given to those pursuing a degree in education, and who, hopefully, will return to teach in the Rock Island school system. Award: $500.

Ray and Elva Haberthur Memorial Scholarship

Ray and Elva Haberthur graduated from Rock Island High School in the 1930's when there weren't many opportunities to go to college. But they valued education and worked with young people through scouting and many other civic and religious organizations. The family wanted to honor them with a scholarship given to a student who works directly with young people. Award: $2,000

Hass Family Scholarship

This scholarship was established and funded by the Hass family (many of whom are RIHS graduates) in honor of their parents, Mary and Art Hass. The scholarship is open to students with a 3.0 GPA or better, good leadership skills, and character. The awarded student must not be in the top 10 of their class. Award: $4,000.

Heart of a Rock Scholarship

Megan Wilson and Triona Roberts, 2010 RIHS graduates, established this scholarship in honor and memory of their mothers (Terri Wilson and Yolanda Roberts) who both fought a battle with breast cancer. They want to support seniors who have undergone the unforeseen challenges that happen when parents are fighting illnesses. The award is given to one special student with a heart of a “rock” who has/had a parent with an illness of any kind. Award: $1,000.

The Amy Helpenstell Liberal Arts Scholarship

Ms. Helpenstell graduated from RIHS in 1988. After her passing in 2003 and in her memory, her family set up a scholarship for RIHS students attending Augustana College. The award is given based on financial need, citizenship, good academic standing and the pursuit of a degree at Augustana College. Award: $1,000.

Jerry and Sue (Farrow) Horton Scholarship

Both Jerry and Sue grew up in Rock Island. They strongly believe in the potential of any student and support those who will further their education/career pursuits via a trade school, technical school, or community college. Those pursuing a career in nursing or as a CNA will also be considered. Award: $1,000

Derek James Jackson Art Scholarship

Derek Jackson was a 2007 graduate of Rock Island High School who excelled in art and had an established career as a tattoo artist. His family set up a scholarship in memory of Derek who died in 2013. The scholarship is awarded to students who have participated in the RIHS art curriculum. A written recommendation must come from one of the student's art teachers. Award: $500.

Timothy Joannides Family Foundation Scholarship

Timothy Joannides and his family established this scholarship for students having participated in band or orchestra while attending Rocky. Students must also have a GPA of 2.5-3.5 and letter of recommendation must come from their band or orchestra teacher. Award: $1,000.

Tyler John Memorial Scholarship

Tyler was a student of the Class of 2017 who passed away suddenly during his junior year. Friends of the family established this scholarship to honor Tyler's memory and the activities he loved. The annual scholarship awards a student who has participated in the band or orchestra program at Rock Island High School with a GPA of 3.0 or better but not in the top 10 of their class. The student must also register at a non-profit college or university. Award: $1,000

Judith A. Katz Scholarship

Mrs. Katz was a valedictorian of her graduating class at Rocky and was active in fine arts. After her death, her family endowed a scholarship in her memory. The scholarship is for a student attending a four-year liberal arts college and preference is given to those who wish to pursue a degree in Fine Arts at Augustana College. Consideration is also based on outstanding academic achievement, character, and financial need. Potential award: $4,000.

Donavin J. Keim Scholarship

Donavin was a junior at RIHS when he passed away unexpectedly in 2014. His grandmother, Delores Rodriguez, created the scholarship in his memory. Two scholarships will be awarded annually: one to a wrestler and one to a football player, both sports which Donavin played. Students must have a GPA of 3.0 or better and have demonstrated strong character. A written recommendation must come from one of the student's coaches. Award: $500 each.

Knights of Pythias Scholarship

The Knights of Pythias Scholarship was established by the order's Lodge based in Milan. The scholarship is awarded to one RIHS senior exemplifying the 3 main principles of the fraternal order: Friendship, Charity, and Benevolence. The letter of recommendation accompanying the RIMEF scholarship application should come from a teacher, administrator, or coach who can speak to these qualities in regards to the applicant. Award: $1,000.

R. Decker Magee Memorial Scholarship

Decker Magee was an RIHS alumnus who died tragically a few years after his graduation. His family endowed this scholarship in his memory. The scholarship is for a student who is planning to attend college or vocational school. It is also based on participation in activities, character, and conduct. The student must have at least a C+ average. Award: $500.

The Marler Clark Science Scholarship

The Marler Clark Science Scholarship was established after a class action lawsuit. The award is given to a student who is planning to pursue a degree in a field of science and currently have a GPA of 3.0 or better GPA. Award: $2,000.

Mollie Montgomery Scholarship

This scholarship benefits a student pursuing any field of medicine - Nursing, Pre-Med, CNA, Medical Research, etc. Criteria also includes providing a history of service to community, non-profit, or school organizations as a regular volunteer - above and beyond a few hours at a fundraising event for a non-profit organization or a school benefit. Award: $2,000.

Herb Niemann Scholarship

Mr. Niemann was a long-time Rock Island teacher and principal. His family, friends, and colleagues established this scholarship in his memory. The scholarship is awarded to a solid student with an excellent attendance record and demonstrated good work ethic. Award: $1,200.

R. Dale Owen Be the Light Memorial Scholarship

R. Dale Owen graduated from RIHS in 1986. Dale passed away in November, 2020 after a five month battle with pancreatic cancer. Dale lived a life of serving and being kind to others. He demonstrted this by giving his time and talents to many non-profit organizations and the communities where he lived and worked. Dale was devoted to his family, friends, and was a mentor to many. He left us with a message to "Be the Light" for others; serve, show kindness, and help those in need Students applying for this award should possess a GPA of 3.0 or higher, but not be in the top 10 of their class; are pursuing a degree in the field of public administration or financial services at a non-profit college or university; and can provide a written recommendation from a teacher or staff member who can speak to the applicant's devotion to helping others. Award: $1,000

Charlie White/Richard Klatt Purple Tuna Creativity Scholarship

1983 Rocky grad Cary Hinze established this scholarship to honor two of his RIHS art teachers, Charlie White and Richard Klatt. It is awarded to any senior wishing to pursue an artist field of study; most show acceptance to either a two-year or four-year college art program. The candidates must have a portfolio of art ready and a written recommendation from an art teacher. Award: $1,000.

Darrell and Mary Anne Reynolds Scholarship

The Reynolds established this scholarship to provide financial assistance to hardworking but sometimes overlooked Rock Island High School students. Mr. Reynolds, a member of the RIHS class of 1965 and successful businessman wanted to reward students who have worked hard but were not star athletes or the valedictorians. Believing that good grades are not the only measure of future success in life, the Reynolds created their scholarship for any student not in the top 10 of their class and giving special consideration to those with a 2.5 to 3.5 GPA. Award: $4,000.

Darrell and Mary Anne Reynolds Automotive Scholarship

With a long history of supporting students and education throughout the community, the Reynolds established this scholarship to encourage students to pursue training and a career in the automotive industry. The scholarship is open to any student wishing to pursue certification and training in any auto maintenance or service program. Award: $4,000.

Miles W. Rich Family Scholarship

Miles Rich established this scholarship in honor of his long-established Rock Island family. This 4-yr. scholarship is awarded to a student who will major in Business Administration at a public  college or university. Recipient must maintain a GPA of 2.5 or better each year. Award: $4,000 – paid as $1,000 per year for 4 years.

Jayovontae "Jaree" Roberts Scholarship

A 1999 RIHS graduate, Jaree was killed in a drunk driving accident in December, 2000. He was a Golden Apple Scholarship recipient pursuing a teaching degree at Southern Illinois University. His family and friends created the scholarship in his memory to keep his dream of helping students alive. Two scholarships are awarded annually: one for a student majoring in music and one to a student majoring in education. Financial need is also a consideration. Award: $500 each.

Rock Island-Milan Education Foundation Scholarship

Three individual scholarships are available: one for a student planning to attend a vocational/tech school, one for a student planning to attend a junior college, and one for a student planning to attend a traditional 4-year college. Must demonstrate financial need and have a 3.0 or better G.P.A. Award: $1,000.

Fred Houlton “Service Above Self” Scholarship of Rock Island Rotary

The Rotary Club of Rock Island established this scholarship to encourage "Service Above Self," the principal motto of Rotary International. Students must demonstrate how they aid family, friends, colleagues, and/or the community. Using "Service Above Self" as a theme, students must submit a 1-page essay demonstrating how they incorporate Rotary's 4-Way Test into their daily lives: 1. Is it the Truth? 2. Is it fair to all concerned? 3. Will it build goodwill and better friendships? 4. Will it be beneficial to all concerned? Written recommendation must come from a teacher or staff person who can speak to the applicant's devotion to helping others. Preference given to students with a GPA of 2.5 or above. Award: $1,000.

Rock Island Township Scholarship

This scholarship was established to award students who reside within Rock Island Township. Students must demonstrate financial need, good work ethic, and leadership skills. Preference is given to students pursuing study in government, politics, and/or law. Students must attend an Illinois college/university and have a GPA of 2.5–3.5. Award: $1,500.

Chet and Louise Schultz Scholarship

Mr. Chet Schultz taught at Rock Island High School for 31 years, teaching driver education and serving as head coach of the wrestling team for 17 years. Mrs. Louise Schultz was a teacher for the RIMSD at Washington Junior High (and also at Central Junior High) for approximately 30 years. Both Mr. and Mrs. Schultz felt strongly about the importance of education and valued the teaching profession. Family members established this scholarship to help preserve their memories. The scholarship is open to any student pursuing a degree in education and/or a senior wrestler. A written recommendation must come from a teacher illustrating good work ethic and potential for success. Consideration is given to financial need. Award: $2,000.

Schwiebert Family Scholarship

Siblings Peter, Sara, John, and Mark Schwiebert established this scholarship to benefit liberal arts college-bound students. All four graduated from Rocky and liberal arts colleges before pursuing their varied careers. Those eligible for this scholarship must attend a liberal arts college/university. Consideration is also given to merit and financial need. Award: $2,000+/- (based upon 4% of scholarship fund balance.)

William and Saralie Shallman Memorial Scholarship

This scholarship was established by John D. Shallman ('82) in memory of William and Saralie Shallman. The Shallmans instilled in their children and grandchildren an abiding commitment to social justice and community engagement, demonstrating through word and action how tolerance, respect and kindness for others makes the world a better place. Students must demonstrate leadership and initiative in service and/or community involvement. Financial need and GPA are strongly considered. Written recommendation must come from a teacher, coach, or school advisor attesting to the student's character, leadership qualities, and service and/or community involvement. Award: $2,500.

Terry Stephens Memorial Scholarship

A long-time baseball coach in Rock Island, Mr. Stephens's wife, Stephanie, and the Jr. Rocks Baseball organization established this scholarship in his memory. Two scholarships will be given - one to a Boys Baseball participant and one to a Girls Softball participant. The students must have participated in some form of Rock Island or Milan organized baseball all four years of high school and have a 2.8 GPA or better. Award: $500 each.

Thoms Family Above & Beyond Scholarship

Created by the Thoms family to identify and honor Rock Island High School students who demonstrate problem solving, organizational, and leadership skills in projects of their own choosing. The program overlaps the spring of the junior and fall of the senior year. Approximately five juniors are chose each year to participate on the basis of the stated project goal and their detailed plans to accomplish that goal. Award: $500 for participation with $1,000 and $5,000 scholarships to the top projects. Scholarships are awarded in January of the senior year.

Steven and Mabel M. Velge Track and Cross-Country Scholarship

Mabel Velge established this scholarship in memory of her son Steven - a member of Rocky's track and cross-country teams. Mabel herself began running at age 55, was a member of the Cornbelt Running Club, and ran 20 marathons across the US. Two scholarships will be awarded- one to a female and one to a male who are members of Rocky's track or cross-country teams at the varsity level. Letter of recommendation must come from the track or cross-country coach. Award: $6,000 each

Elizabeth Kennel Williams Scholarship

Applicants must demonstrate how they have overcome significant obstacles or life challenges such as: being raised by a single parent, immigrating to the United States, being the first in their family to go to college, affected by a serious illness or medical condition, etc. Award: $1,000.

Women's Computer Science, I.T. & Math Scholarship

This scholarship was established and funded by a Rock Island citizen to encourage women to pursue a degree in computer science, technology or math. The award is open to senior females who intend to work in I.T. as systems designers and software engineers, or fields of science or math. Students must have a 3.0 G.P.A. or better. Award: $500.

Rosemary Woodward Scholarship

Rosemary Woodward devoted her life to ensuring the health and well-being of children and adults alike through her career as a nurse and her volunteer work. Funded by a grant from her endowment with the RI Community Foundation, the RIMEF established this scholarship to honor her career as a nurse and her many years of volunteer work. Applicants may have taken CNA or biology/health courses while in high school, volunteered at nursing homes/hospitals, or have a family member with chronic health issues but their intended major, degree, certificate must be within the field of nursing or as a CNA. Award: $1,000.

DW Young Memorial Scholarship

DW Young was a strong supporter of the Rock Island schools. He was a firm believer in education and achieving ones full potential and saw five children graduate from Rock Island High School. Established by his family, the scholarship is for a student who will major in political science, economics, or pre-law. The recipient must maintain a 3.0 during college. Award: $1,000 annually for four years, totaling $4,000.