Rising Star Scholarship

The Rising Star Scholarship was established by a generous donor, Ethel McConnell, who cherished her career as an elementary education teacher for many years throughout LaSalle County.

About the Scholarship

Rising Star Scholarship

The Rising Star Scholarship was established by a generous donor, Ethel McConnell, who cherished her career as an elementary education teacher for many years throughout LaSalle County.

2025 Scholarship Season Now Open!

This $5000 Scholarship is awarded to a high school graduate or recent graduate who will pursue a career in Elementary Education at Illinois State University.

2024 Recipient

We are pleased to award the 2024 Rising Star Scholarship to Elisabeth “Ella” Kamke of Utica. Elisabeth will be attending Illinois State University to study Music Education for K-12 students. Elisabeth notes her choir teacher was exemplary and is the type of teacher she aspires to be. Elisabeth is the daughter of Darren and Kristine Kamke.

2023 Recipient

We are pleased to award the 2023 Rising Star Scholarship to Maggie McDonald of Seneca. Maggie will be attending Illinois State University to study Early Childhood Education and Elementary Education and to obtain certification in each area of study. Maggie notes that her mother has been one of her biggest influences, as her mom has served as an educator teaching kindergarten through second grade. Maggie is the daughter of Mark and Carrie McDonald.

Apply for this scholarship here

Financial donations may also be mailed or made in person at our office 241 Marquette St, LaSalle, IL 61301. If you prefer to make a financial contribution by mail, please make your check payable to SRCCF. For more information about the Rising Star Scholarship, please contact (815)252-2906.