Elgin Woman's Club awards scholarships to graduating students
The Elgin Woman's Club has awarded two $1,500 scholarships to graduating students from Elgin Area School District U-46 high schools pursuing careers in the field of health occupations. The 123-year-old organization continues its emphasis on education with the scholarships as it has for many years.
Bridgett McGuinness, scholarship chairwoman, along with her committee members Leigh Butler and Audrey Gilbert, were pleased with the number of U-46's qualified senior applicants. "The committee and I were pleased to be able to once again award scholarships to two very well qualified students in order to help as they begin their college education."
New scholarship recipients are:
• South Elgin High School graduating senior Jessica Lenartowicz, who will attend Bradley University, Peoria, where she plans to enter the nursing program.
• Bartlett High School graduate Kaitlyn Popovich, who will attend the Marquette University, Milwaukee, Wis., where she plans to study physical therapy.
Scholarship presenters at the two high school award ceremonies from the Elgin Woman's Club were Leigh Butler, scholarship committee member, at South Elgin High School, and Bridgett McQuinness, scholarship committee chairman, at Bartlett High School.
Scholarship funds are raised during the year by club members through a variety of fundraising efforts, including an annual fall luncheon featuring programs by noted entertainers.
Since the club was founded in 1887, members have supported hundreds of local projects including yearly scholarships to students from area high schools. Their major accomplishment was the founding of Sherman Hospital in 1888. In addition, members volunteer in hospitals and other agencies throughout the Elgin area and are active in recycling, conservation, women's health, international affairs and other projects.
The Elgin Woman's Club invites local women interested in community service, philanthropy and education to call the club hotline, (847) 622-3614, for details about membership.
The club meets monthly from September to May for luncheon meetings and programs.
Elgin Woman's Club members also participate in General Federation of Women's Club's district, state and international efforts as well as in leadership positions in those areas of the organization.