Amid a competitive pool of applicants statewide, three individuals emerged as the distinguished recipients of $1,500 scholarships.
GALVA - Demonstrating a steadfast commitment to fostering educational pursuits among its members and their families, Illinois LICA proudly announced the recipients of its inaugural scholarship program for 2025. Amid a competitive pool of applicants statewide, the selection committee faced the formidable task of choosing from a multitude of exceptional candidates. After meticulous deliberation, three individuals emerged as the distinguished recipients of $1,500 scholarships. Paige Kocher of Flat Rock, IL, currently a junior at the University of Evansville pursuing Biology, garnered recognition for her exemplary academic achievements. Paige, daughter of Jeff & Holly Kocher and granddaughter of Norm & Mary Jane Kocher, has consistently earned Dean’s List honors throughout her academic career. Her dedication to the field of medicine and forensic pathology is evidenced by her practical experience as a lab phlebotomist across multiple hospitals and her involvement in local autopsies alongside coroners. Beyond academics, Paige is an active volunteer at the Ronald McDonald House, Ark Children’s Crisis Center, Mesker Zoo, and the Arthritis Foundation. Isabella Bunting, a senior at Dwight Township High School hailing from Emington, IL, embodies a multifaceted approach to leadership and academic excellence. Maintaining a stellar 4.045 GPA, Isabella has excelled in various sports and extracurricular activities, including volleyball, basketball, and track and field. Her leadership roles extend to serving as class President, President of the Dwight FFA Chapter, President of the Tractor Wheels 4-H Club, and Co-President of the Spanish Club. Isabella plans to commence her higher education journey at Joliet Junior College, with aspirations to contribute to the agricultural sector by bridging gaps between producers and consumers. Briley McDowell, a senior at Hardin County High School from Elizabethtown, IL, distinguished herself with an outstanding academic record. Maintaining an impressive 5.42 GPA while dual-enrolled in high school and college credit courses, Briley’s commitment to excellence extends beyond academics to include active participation in volleyball, basketball, and leadership roles within the FFA. Inspired by her personal journey overcoming a sports injury, Briley plans to pursue Biomedical Sciences at Southern Illinois University and subsequently attend Physician’s Assistant school, focusing on orthopedic medicine. Illinois LICA expressed profound pride in supporting these exceptional scholars in their educational pursuits. The recipients’ passion and dedication resonate deeply with the association’s core values, promising a bright future of accomplishments and contributions. Illinois LICA is a not-for-profit trade association dedicated to the professional conservation of soil & water resources. For over 65 years, ILICA has been providing contractors construction & conservation education, business & legislative resources, and industry discounts. For more information about Illinois LICA and its commitment to fostering educational excellence, visit www.illica.net.
ST. JOSEPH - Last month, St. Joseph-Ogden High School announced the recipients of the third quarter Honor Roll and High Honor Roll. To be recognized on the Honor Roll at SJO, students must achieve a grade point average (GPA) of 3.25 or higher on a 4.0 scale. Those with a GPA exceeding 3.74 are honored as 
CHAMPAIGN - Parkland College announced the names of students whose academic performance landed them a spot on the Fall 2025 Dean's List. One of the highest honors a student can receive for their academic performance, the Dean's List is awarded to Parkland College students who earn a minimum grade point average of 3.5 on a 4.0 grade scale for the semester in 100-level courses or higher.
Below is a list of students in our area who earned academic honors last fall. The complete current list can be found on the 
The students named below earned recognition for their academic performance and attention to excellence at Unity High School. Congratulations to each on their exceptional scholastic effort in the first semester.
