U-46 collects $35,000 for scholarships

Elgin-area schools officials have raised nearly $35,000 this year for an annual scholarship program supporting graduating students who are the first in their families to attend college. It's the most collected in any single year since the Superintendent's Scholarship program started in 2012, Elgin Area School District U-46 CEO Tony Sanders said.

Sanders initially had hoped to raise $25,000 in scholarships this year for college-bound graduates from the district's five high schools.

Officials attribute the success of the program to increased marketing efforts, and a loyal and growing donor base. Since the program began 125 graduates have earned $1,000 scholarships each through the program.

"We really are fortunate to be in a very generous community," U-46 spokeswoman Mary Fergus said. "I'm always struck by how much this community gives back."

Last year, the district awarded 25 graduates $1,000 scholarships. The year before, 15 scholarships were awarded.

This year, officials expect to award 30 scholarships, Fergus said.

In 2012, former Superintendent José Torres established the Superintendent's Scholarship fund through the U-46 Educational Foundation.

As part of this year's campaign, district officials have reached out to past donors, keeping them informed about the successes of students awarded scholarships, and local businesses. Some past recipients' stories are published at u-46.org. That strategy seems to have worked well, Fergus said.

"After last year's campaign, we sent them all thank you notes," said Fergus adding, Sanders' longevity with the district as a leader for the past 10 years likely has contributed to building loyalty.

This year's campaign wraps up at the end of this month. Donors will be invited to join scholarship recipients and their families at an awards reception at 6 p.m. April 26 at Kenyon Woods Middle School, 1515 Raymond St., South Elgin.

The event also provides students an opportunity to network with donors who could become possible mentors, Fergus said.

To donate toward scholarships, visit the U-46 Educational Foundation page, u-46.org, and fill out the form. Checks can be mailed to U-46 Educational Foundation, 355 E. Chicago St., Elgin, 60120. For more information, call Laura Romero at (847) 888-5000 ext. 5027 or email superintendentscholarship@u-46.org.