Earlier this summer, Goodwill Industries of Northern Illinois (Rockford) awarded $15,000 for two scholarships to assist persons at Rock Valley College who face challenges to advancing their education.
The scholarships — designed to enable the recipients to build a better future for themselves, their families and the entire community — were made possible by funds raised from the Goodwill’s Diva Dress Sale and Fashion Show last March.
“This scholarship program is a perfect match for Goodwill’s mission of assisting persons with barriers to achieve the dignity of work through advanced education at Rock Valley College,” said Sam Schmitz, president of Goodwill Industries of Northern Illinois.
The two scholarships included the Jon Lundin Scholarship, for students interested in manufacturing, technology or green technology with preference to persons with a disability; and the DoAnn Geiger Scholarship, for individuals with a disability interested in further education.
Lundin was a community leader and local historian who brought an entrepreneurial spirit and creativity to the Rockford manufacturing and business community. He was also the previous president of the Rockford Goodwill. Geiger was a community volunteer for a number of organizations and was the founder of Northwestern Illinois Special Olympics. She was also a long time board member of Goodwill Industries.
Dr. Jack Becherer, president of Rock Valley College added, “RVC is honored and grateful to accept this generous scholarship donation. Contributions such as this directly impact the lives of many in our community. Together Goodwill and RVC are changing lives through education.”
