On May 11th, the North Chicago Public Education Foundation (NCPEF) hosted the annual Celebration of Scholars Brunch. This special event honored graduating high school students who received Warhawk Lancer Scholarships, the mentors who support them, and the wonderful donors who continue to support the program. Thank you to NCPEF Executive Director Tracey Horwich for hosting such a welcoming and inspiring event. And a huge congratulations to the following Warhawk Lancer Scholarship recipients:
Josue Aguilar
David Alvarado
Roxanna Alvarado
Jahri Bosley
Giovanni Carreno
Alexis Casimiro
Litzy Castillo
KaVeon Collins
Asia Dixon
Crystal Gonzalez
Noemi Lazcon
Alison Maldonado
Melanie Martinez
Janare Matthews
Roseleen Melchor
Lily Mondragon
Alexandra Munoz
Evelyn Ortega Cardenas
Cynthia Perez
Oswaldo Sanchez
Da'Nayla Sibert
Jabbari Sparkman
Johnny Stewart
Tamia Tenard
Israel Vega
Scholarships Made Possible by Generous Donors
The brunch started with a big thank you to the many individuals and organizations contributing to the scholarship program. Local businesses including the Grainger Foundation and community supporters including Steans Family Foundation and Gorter Family Foundation were among those recognized for their donations. The NCPEF highlighted a generous grant from Schreiber Philanthropy, which ensures that every dollar donated goes directly to supporting the Scholars. Each scholar will receive full tuition, including books and fees; a stipend for living expenses; a computer donated by 22Vets; and the support of a counselor.
Donors include:
22Vets
Abbvie
ABM Industries Incorporated
Allendale Association
Anonymous
Joanne Celba
Sally and Tom Coyle
Faith Lutheran Church
Franczek P.C.
Gorter Family Foundation
The Grainger Foundation
Grand Foundation
Jennifer and David Grumhaus, Jr.
Gust Foundation
HTML Global
Willard M. Hunter
Lake Forest-Lake Bluff Rotary Club Foundation
North Chicago School District 187
OrganicLife
Jean and Preston Price
Dr. John P. Price
Schreiber Philanthropy
Steans Family Foundation
StudioNorth
Waukegan Community Bank
Mentorship Program Provides Key Support
The event also recognized the vital role played by the Warhawk Lancer mentors. These mentors are recent graduates and second-year college students who offer valuable guidance to new Scholars as they adjust to college life. The Steans Family Foundation was acknowledged for its contribution, which allows the program to provide stipends to mentors and host special events.
A Day of Recognition and Inspiration
The program featured a warm welcome by Tracey Horwich, the NCPEF's Executive Director. A special tribute was paid to Oscar Hawthorne, a retiring board member, followed by remarks from Mr. Hawthorne himself. Recent graduates Anthony Martinez (Class of 2023) and Jasmine Nieto (Class of 2021) shared their experiences as Warhawk Lancers, offering valuable advice to the incoming class. Dr. Lori Suddick, President of the College of Lake County, also addressed the gathering.
Introducing the Class of 2024!
A highlight of the event was the official presentation of the Class of 2024 Warhawk Lancer Scholars. Each scholar was in the spotlight as they were announced individually for their hard work and academic success at North Chicago Community High School. They were met with a standing ovation from the event attendees.
Celebrating Past and Present Success
The Brunch wasn't just about the future but also a celebration of past achievements. Scholars from the Classes of 2023, 2022, 2021, and 2020 were all recognized, showcasing the ongoing impact of the NCPEF's programs on North Chicago graduates.
The Celebration of Scholars Brunch was a successful event that recognized academic excellence, mentorship, and the generosity of the community. It's a great reminder of the strong support system to help North Chicago students succeed in college!
