Linda Hershman
School: Columbia City High School
College: Indiana University
Without 21st Century Scholars, I would not have the privilege of giving back to others. I would not have my Masters degree. I would not be providing therapy to children involved in the child welfare system. 21st Century Scholars provided me with a free undergraduate experience that allowed me to explore my capabilities and build my passion for helping!
What are they doing now?
Assistant Director - Children's Bureau, Inc
Branden Moore
School: Twin Lakes High School
College: Indiana University
21st Century Scholars gave me an opportunity I never thought possible. I was able to pursue my undergraduate degree where I developed an interest in medicine. I pursued a medical degree at LMU-DCOM and completed residency in MS. I currently serve as Chief Pulmonary and Critical Care fellow at Doctors Hospital in Columbus, OH. I will finish my training in fellowship June, 2022, afterward I plan to locate my medical practice in Indiana. All of this would not be possible if not for the 21st Century Scholars program.
What are they doing now?
Pulmonology and Critical Care Fellow - Doctors Hospital
Morgan Kearney
School: Bluffton High School
College: Indiana University
21st Century Scholars impacted me both personally and professionally by providing me a way to continue on my education beyond high school. While completing my undergraduate degree, I recognized my love of science and learning and continued on to earn my Masters of Science in Conservation Biology and my Masters of Arts in Teaching. I now teach science and can share my love of learning and science with all of my students. Without 21st Century Scholars, I may not have ended up where I am today, especially if I hadn’t been able to attend Indiana University where I began cultivating my passions for teaching others science.
What are they doing now?
Conservation Biologist and Science Educator
Daniel O'Donnell
School: Eastern High School (Pekin)
College: Indiana University
The 21st Century Scholarship provided me every opportunity that I have been able to take advantage of for the past decade.
What are they doing now?
Manager of Strategic Partnerships - Merit America
Shawn McMahon
School: Seeger Memorial Jr./Sr. High School
College: Purdue University
I wouldn't have gone to college without it. The biggest problem while thinking about college was how I could afford it. I knew going into my early educational career that it may just be too expensive for my family to pay for it. I wanted to be a school teacher, but they don't make anything for the work they do and to pay of a four-year college loan would be nearly impossible. The price of colleges is absolutely ridiculous and the teacher pay is abysmal, I don't know how anyone can do it. However, I was fortunate enough to acquire this scholarship and man did it change my life. I could do what I wanted to do without fear. I went to Purdue, met the friends of a lifetime and walked immediately into a job that I love. I can't thank this program enough for letting a guy like me, in the position I was in financially, attend a four year college without having to really pay a dime after financial aid was accounted for.
What are they doing now?
Teacher - Seeger Memorial Jr./Sr. High School
Jacob J Ellis
School: Wabash High School
College: Purdue University
21st Century Scholars allowed me to focus on my college experience and maximize my development. The co-curricular opportunities, leadership development, and classroom work in unison to help us have a greater impact on society. 21st Century Scholars gave me the financial support needed to take on extra responsibilities as a student leader, finance service trips, study abroad, and commit to my school work. All of these experiences shape my worldview, my personal values, and my duty to improve our society. Because of these experiences, I am dedicated to build better men and do so by managing leadership experiences for college students. I am so grateful a program like 21st Century Scholars exists and supports young people with potential at a young age. Without it, my dreams and my impact on my community would be a shadow of what they are today.
What are they doing now?
Coordinator of Undergraduate Education - Delta Tau Delta Central Office
Charles Brooks
School: Terre Haute North Vigo High School
College: Indiana University
I would not be where I am without the 21st Century Scholars program. I had dreams and goals of attending college from a young age, but there is no possible way I could have afforded to attend without this program, especially not my dream school of Indiana University. Because of this program, I was able to have a fulfilling experience that allowed me to focus on my studies and fully engage in the university setting. After I graduated from undergrad, I moved to Indiana State University to obtain a Masters degree in Student Affairs & Higher Education. I loved college so much that I decided to make a career in the same setting so I could be a resource for students like those that helped me. Nothing in my life would be the same if I had not been a part of the 21st Century Scholars program.
What are they doing now?
Senior Assistant Director - Indiana University Career Development Center
Aisha Givens
School: North High School
College: Indiana State University, Ivy Tech, University of Southern Indiana
The 21st Century Scholarship gave me the opportunity to be something or do something I never imagined. I never considered college. It was never suggested in my family as an opportunity. Honestly without 21st Century, I don't know which direction my life would have taken.
What are they doing now?
Licensed Clinical Social Worker - Youth First Inc.
Jacob Corns
School: Lafayette Jefferson High School
College: Purdue University
My parents attended but did not graduate from college. My grandmother and grandfather were Purdue alumni. 21st Century Scholars gave me the opportunity and resources to complete my degree with minimal debt. In addition, they provided leadership and guidance that helped me through the most difficult of times. I'd been placed on AP from within the program before I got on the university's radar and my mentors helped me push myself so that I could overcome my challenges and succeed. I am extremely proud to say that I was able to turn around from a "below average" performing student to completing my final semester taking 21 credit hours and achieving a 3.7. I am beyond grateful for this program and believe it is critical to providing an opportunity to those with lesser means to step into the realm of higher education. It is a very overwhelming task to those who are unfamiliar with the processes and with the help of the 21st Century program they provided guidance and knowledge that helped ease this process as well as my transition into the college and professional lifestyles. Please keep this program alive!!!
What are they doing now?
Project Engineer - JE Dunn Construction
Shannon Knepp
School: Barr Reeve High School
College: Vincennes University and University of Southern Indiana
21st Century Scholars is an amazing program. My mother had to drop out of school after eighth grade. In my childhood home, there was never a push for higher education. My older brother was not a part of the 21st Century Scholars program and unfortunately he ended up dropping out of high school. The speaker for 21st Century Scholars who came to my school to discuss the program with my classmates and I was the first person who discussed higher education with me. It was after this conversation that I felt I could actually further my education and do something meaningful and rewarding with my life.
With the support I received from 21st Century Scholars, I graduated from USI with a 3.8 GPA last May and have been employed in a professional position for over two years where I strive to motivate young people to pursue their dreams and to have quality goals in life. I truly believe none of these positive life events would have happened in my life if it was not for this program. This program gives children and young adults hope for their future and enables Scholars to reach their goals in life.
What are they doing now?
Office Manager - Groups Recover Together
Heather Peacock
School: Switzerland County High School
College: Indiana University Purdue University (IUPUI) - Indianapolis
It helped me not go into thousands of dollars in student loan debt and ensured I could afford a better future for myself.
What are they doing now?
Project Manager of Biotechnology Clinical Trials - Labcorp Drug Development
Katie Shake
School: North Central High School - Farmersburg
College: Indiana University Purdue University (IUPUI) - Indianapolis
I am incredibly grateful to 21st Century Scholars for allowing me to seize my future! Not only did I receive financial assistance for college which was vital to my success, but this program encouraged me from a young age to develop positive behaviors and set high goals for myself. I am incredibly proud of my accomplishments including my Bachelors of Social Work, Masters of Social Work, and now my professional social work career. Without 21st Century Scholars, this would not have been possible! Thank you!
What are they doing now?
Therapist - Hamilton Center Inc
Aubrey J Hocker
School: Angola High School
College: Purdue University
The Scholars program allowed me to ignore the challenges of needing to buy books, food, housing and tuition. I was able to focus on school and not feel hunger. I was able to feel warm and build prototypes and not worry about adequate housing.
What are they doing now?
Pursuing master's degree in mechanical engineering
Derian Scales
School: Heritage Hills
College: University of Southern Indiana
If it weren't for 21st Century Scholars, I would have never been able to attend college or achieve the dream I always wanted.
What are they doing now?
Pursuing Doctorate of Occupational Therapy
Vincent Robert Edwards
School: Waldron High School
College: Purdue Polytechnic
With the 21st Century Scholars program I was able to complete my computer information technology (CIT) degree in 2017 from Purdue Polytechnic in Columbus Indiana. Pursue an internship in Cummins in 2014 that lead me to get hired full time as an engineering associate in 2017 upon my graduation. I was able to have small loan debt compared to others without scholarships and was able to pay them back with my full time job.
What are they doing now?
Engineering Associate
Mercedes Lilliston
School: Scottsburg High School
College: Purdue University
What are they doing now?
Registered Dietitian - Sodexo
Garrett Abrams
School: Rushville Consolidated High School
College: Indiana University Purdue University (IUPUI) - Indianapolis
This program allowed me to attend college and thrive! I graduated with good grades, which allowed me to join the Culver’s organization.
What are they doing now?
Owner Operator - Culver’s restaurant in Richmond, IN
Lisa Sieverding
School: South Ripley High School
College: Butler University
21st Century Scholars provided me with financial assistance that allowed me to go to college and receive an education and experiences I otherwise would not have been able to afford. I will always be grateful for 21st Century Scholars, which played a huge part in helping me get the education I needed to become a speech-language pathologist.
What are they doing now?
Speech Language Pathologist - All Kids Can Therapy, LLC
Jonathan Shockney
School: Union City Community High School
College: Purdue University
21st Century gave me the opportunity to go to college and come out debt free. I don't think I could have been able to be so successful with the worry of student loan debt over my head.
What are they doing now?
Associate Product Engineer - Nexteer Automotive
Chelsea Elwood
School: Cloverdale High School
College: Indiana State University
The 21st Century Scholar Program was a huge contributing factor for me being able to afford my undergraduate education and proceed with earning a Master's Degree. Without this scholarship I may have been discouraged from attending college due to the financial burden. They also provided me with multiple non-monetary resources while in college and I am PROUD to be a first generation 21st Century Scholar. I am now able to provide my children with a life with less worries and will be able to help direct them towards a fulfilling future and career.
What are they doing now?
Physician Assistant - Indiana State University and Providence Medical Group OBGYN
Dillon Gilman
School: Winamac Community High School
College: Indiana University
21st Century Scholars was a very positive factor in my college experience and as a graduate/professional. The funds provided by 21st Century Scholars and the Indiana University Covenant allowed me to focus more on my education than I otherwise could have. I still worked throughout my time at IU, but the income was mostly for savings or discretionary spending, as opposed to strictly paying for living expenses. After graduating, the benefits of 21st Century Scholars became clear when comparing my student loan debt balance and payments to those of my peers that did not receive similar benefits. Especially with entry-level positions post-graduation, it is easy to see the difficulty some face repaying vast levels of student debt. I am very fortunate and grateful to be a 21st Century Scholar.
What are they doing now?
Lead Agent - Redfin
Marco Antonio Medina
School: Valparaiso High School
College: Valparaiso University
Personally, 21st Century Scholars not only provided me with the financial support to pursue my career and the higher learning needed to get there, but it opened many doors for me along the way. Without their support, it's highly likely I wouldn't of enrolled into college and I wouldn't be progressing as much as I did during my four years. I was able to study abroad and travel across many parts of Europe. Furthermore, 21st Century Scholars provided the means and support to motivate me to work harder and obtain my goals. I am forever thankful to 21st Century and the support they provide to many individuals like myself. It is clear as water that this is a fundamental and such vital program for first generation students wanting to make an impact in their lives and those around them.
What are they doing now?
UFS Manufacturing Corporation
Haley Cawthon
School: Pike Central High School
College: Indiana University
The 21st Century Scholars program enabled me to attend the college of my dreams. Not only that, but it allowed me to graduate with my degree debt free, which has had a lasting impact on my life beyond college. Since graduating from Indiana University in 2015, I have been working full time as a journalist for a variety of publications and my husband and I recently purchased our first home here in Indiana.
What are they doing now?
Journalist - Louisville Business First
Kayla Gallagher
School: Perry Central High School
College: University of Southern Indiana
I would have never been able to afford college after my parents divorced. With single incomes they could barely pay their own bills, let alone college tuition. 21st Century allowed me to attend college without working 40+ hours a week. I do have some student loans that I used for housing, but it was a relief to not worry about money while I was studying.
What are they doing now?
Butler Family Dentistry, LLC
Jarod Wilson
School: Rockville Jr/Sr High School
College: Butler University
Growing up, it was never a question as to whether or not I would go to college, but we often wondered how we would pay for it. The 21st Century Scholarship made it possible for me to not only pay for college, but go to my top choice school. I believe in the transformative nature of education--it truly can change the trajectory of someone's life. My experience with the scholarship put me on a career path where I am helping to be a catalyst for change in individuals' lives every day.
What are they doing now?
Senior Director of Workforce and Education - Foster Success
Kathryn Staublin
School: Owen Valley High School
College: Indiana University
The 21st Century Scholars program gave me the opportunity to pursue knowledge and skills in an environment of my choosing—somewhere where I felt safe to learn and focus on my future. Without the scholarship, I don't know if I would have been able to go to college, let alone receive a degree. Ten years later, I also have a master's degree and a career in education. The 21st Century Scholars program served as the foundation I needed to succeed later on in life.
What are they doing now?
High School English Teacher - Plainfield Community Schools
Tyler Hannah
School: Rising Sun
College: Indiana State University
Very grateful for the program - without it I would have been in an immense amount of debt leaving college. I am so glad 21st Century Scholars helped me achieve my dreams!
What are they doing now?
United States Air Force
Iaah Lucas
School: East Noble High School
College: Indiana University
Coming from generations of factory workers who came from coal miners, it quite literally would not have been feasible for me to go to college if not for the 21st Century Scholars program. I was able to not only complete my four-year degree with no debt, I was subsequently able to use the degree and knowledge I obtained to go on to earn my Masters of Public Health from Emory University. Now I am comfortably middle class and work in health research. I am forever grateful and hope this program continues for all those who need it.
What are they doing now?
Senior Public Health Program Associate - Emory University
Asher Demoret
School: North Montgomery High School
College: Purdue University
21st Century Scholars was instrumental in allowing me to graduate from college debt free. The program also provided me with helpful education in professional skills such as resume writing and interviewing that I wish I had received in high school.
What are they doing now?
Polymer Chemist - IDI Composites International
Kara Green
School: Bremen Senior High School
College: Purdue University
21st Century Scholars opened the door for me to go to college. As one of seven in a single family income it was well known that my parents would not be able to help me in any way with my education. If it were not for 21st Century I would have either gone into significant debt or not been able to go to college at all.
What are they doing now?
Academic Advisor - Purdue University
Marvin D. Smith II
School: North Central High School
College: Indiana University Purdue University (IUPUI) - Indianapolis
The opportunity that I had from 21st Century was priceless. It gave me the option to be able to addend any college in Indiana, without completely worrying about cost. I could truly focus on being a college student and obtaining an education that I would be using for the remainder of my life. Thank You 21st Century Scholars.
What are they doing now?
Automotive Corporate Program Recruiter - Ivy Tech Community College
Lesley Chodkowski
School: Anderson High School
College: Ball State University
The 21st Century Scholars program made it possible for me to complete by Bachelor's degree and then go on to get my Master's degree so I could work in the mental health field, following my passion of helping others.
What are they doing now?
Therapist, MS, LMHC - Aspire Indiana Health
Kala Lantz
School: Mitchell Senior High School
College: Ivy Tech Community College and Indiana Wesleyan University
I was fortunate for the opportunity in the additional monetary support to further my education. This opportunity has created so many open doors for my career and helped me reach my academic goals without the burden of excessive educational costs!
What are they doing now?
Executive Administrative Assistant - NSWC Crane Naval Base
Michelle Rozinski
School: La Porte High School
College: Purdue North Central
As a young woman raised by a single mother of limited means, the 21st Century Scholars program gave me opportunities for further education that I otherwise would not have been able to acquire without at least tens of thousands of dollars of debt in the form of student loans. The education that I received enabled me to think critically and work successfully with a diverse population.
What are they doing now?
Banking Advisor - Horizon Bank
Nathan Elizalde
School: Donald E. Gavit
College: Purdue University Northwest
Being a 21st Century Scholar gave me the peace of mind to focus on my studies since I knew tuition would be covered.
What are they doing now?
Assistant director of undergraduate admissions - Purdue University Northwest
Josiah Parker
School: Lakeland High School
College: Ball State University
21st Century Scholars made it possible for me to attend college. Coming from a large, low income, family finances were always a struggle.
While my parents raised me to believe in myself, believe school was important, and work hard, 21st Century Scholars allowed me to follow through with an education.
What are they doing now?
Assistant Principal - Penn High School
Cassandra Dishman
School: Warsaw Community High School
College: Indiana University
The 21st Century Scholars Program truly made the difference between me going to the college of my choice versus not being able to afford college at all. I am so thankful for the ability to pursue my dream of becoming a physician without the added stress of how I was going to pay for my undergraduate education, which was ultimately just the first of many steps towards getting my medical degree.
What are they doing now?
Physician - University of Virginia Health System
Logan Seger
School: Vincennes Lincoln High School
College: Indiana State University
With 21st Century Scholars, not only was was I able to attend college, but I was able to attend the college of my first choice. Without this program, my college and professional experiences would look completely different.
What are they doing now?
Account Executive - Cisco
Alexis Parker
School: Center Grove High School
College: Indiana University Purdue University (IUPUI) - Indianapolis
This program allowed me to reach my dream of being a teacher, while being financially stable.
What are they doing now?
3rd Grade Teacher - MSD Decatur Township
Addy Anderson
School: Jennings County High School
College: University of Evansville
21st Century Scholars kept college in the forefront of my mind all through junior and senior high school as well as gave me the financial support and accountability I needed throughout my college career.
What are they doing now?
VPI Coordinator - Cummins Inc.
Zach Hassfurder
School: Madison Consolidated High School
College: Indiana University
I am very grateful that 21st Century Scholars provided an opportunity for me to attend college and even study abroad for a summer. I am confident that this program had a huge impact on my life.
What are they doing now?
Tech Lead - Capital One
Dominic Martyne
School: Jay County High School
College: Ball State University
It is through the 21st Century Scholars program that I have less college debt than other graduates. It helped fuel my MA in American History, as well as my 3 BA degrees in Philosophy, Classics, and Latin.
What are they doing now?
Adjunct Faculty - Ivy Tech Community College
Samuel Capouch
School: Kankakee Valley High School
College: Indiana University Purdue University (IUPUI) - Indianapolis
The 21st Century Scholar program provided me with the financial resources necessary to follow my aspirations of becoming a physician. I am now a Neurology resident physician in Indianapolis working in a career I love.
What are they doing now?
Licensed PGY-1 Resident Physician - Indiana University School of Medicine
Clairese Cherry
School: Whitko High School
College: Huntington University
If it weren't for 21st Century Scholars, I wouldn't have been able to go to my dream college.
What are they doing now?
Skills Coach Leader - The Bowen Center
Tyler Juranovich
School: Highland High School
College: Ball State University
21st Century Scholars gave me peace of mind that I could go to college even with a single mother and not have to worry about being drowned in debt.
What are they doing now?
Government Reporter at Kokomo Tribune
Joshua Valadez
School: Brownsburg High School
College: Trine University
21st Century Scholars gave me the motivation at an early age to go to college. Furthermore, it didn't matter what my parents did as a profession or how much money we had, I could get higher education. Never would I thought I'd be where I am today, at 27, living on my own with a great job, and going back to school to get my MBA.
What are they doing now?
Marketing Program Manager - Lincoln Financial Group
MBA student at Purdue University Fort Wayne
Samantha Colin
School: Corydon Central High School
College: Purdue University
If it wasn't for 21st Century, I never would have had the chance to go to undergrad and eventually grad school. It's changed the course of my life in the best way.
What are they doing now?
Current Neuroscience PhD Candidate interested in Alzheimer's Disease, Alcohol Use Disorders and Science Education at Indiana University School of Medicine
Elise Birch
School: Fishers High School
College: Purdue University
I knew for a long time that I wanted to be a therapist but that requires not only a bachelor's degree but also a master's degree. Being able to leave undergrad with little to no debt gave me the ability to go into graduate school without being too burdened. The Purdue Promise Program at Purdue University supplemented the 21st Century Scholar program and taught me about marketing myself, giving back to the community, and applying for careers and further education. I never would have been able to go to college if it wasn't for 21st Century Scholars.
What are they doing now?
Therapist - Beech Tree Consulting and Psychological Services
Brian Overton
School: Linton Stockton
College: Indiana State University
It wasn't until I got older and into my career when I fully realized the importance of the program on my financial well-being.
What are they doing now?
Realtor - Keller Williams
Elizabeth Guarneri
School: Oak Hill High School
College: Indiana University Purdue University (IUPUI) - Indianapolis
The 21st Century Scholars program allowed me to be debt free out of college and to buy my first house by 23. I was able to set myself up for success by not being bogged down by student loan debt.
What are they doing now?
Events Coordinator - USA Track & Field
Carley Lara
School: Gibson Southern High School
College: University of Evansville
I would not have made it to where I am without this program. I was able to attend my first choice school with almost no cost to my family.
What are they doing now?
3rd Grade Teacher - Owensville Community School
Amanda Hopkins
School: Caston Jr./Sr. High School
College: Purdue Global
21st Century Scholars program gave me the chance to further my education without going into debt. Coming from a poor background it was magical to have that type of opportunity. I used the assistance to obtain an associate degree in Business Administration from Ivy Tech Community College, then went on to use it again at Western Governors University to obtain my bachelor's degree in Business Administration with a Marketing concentration. That degree helped me land a job at Purdue University as a clerk with the Capital Projects team. Now my employer is helping me get my Master's degree in Business Administration with a Project Management concentration so that hopefully someday I can take over for my boss.
What are they doing now?
Administrative Clerk - Purdue University
Austin Jordan
School: Franklin County High School
College: Ball State University
I am so thankful to have been a part of the 21st Century Scholars program. It has really impacted my life in a positive way, especially starting off a new nurse working during a global pandemic.
What are they doing now?
Registered Nurse - Good Samaritan Hospital
Karrah Pattengale
School: Attica High School
College: University of Indianapolis
The 21st Century Scholars program allowed me to attend the college of my choosing for little to nothing. With my academic achievements and their help, my undergrad was completely covered financially.
What are they doing now?
Certified Nursing Assistant - American Senior Communities
Pursuing Doctorate in Physical Therapy
Chelsea Naylor
School: New Albany High School
College: DePauw University
What are they doing now?
Outreach Manager for Northeast Indiana - Indiana Youth Institute
Brian Durham
School: Connersville High School
College: Indiana University
Without the 21st Century Scholars program, I never would have been afforded the opportunity to attend college. I had really good grades, but I didn't have the money to pay for school. Without the program, I would probably not be where I wanted to be in life at age 30.
What are they doing now?
Executive Director - Connersville Chamber of Commerce.
McKenna Clifford
School: DeKalb High School
College: Purdue University
The opportunity to be a 21st Century Scholar is something I will always be grateful for. The program alleviated a huge portion of the financial stress associated with attaining a college education. It is amazing the doors this program opens for so many Hoosiers.
What are they doing now?
Wealth Partner at Credent Wealth Management
Liza Serafino
School: Elkhart Central High School
College: Indiana University Bloomington
The 21st Century Scholars program made earning a degree possible for me. As a first-generation college student, the 21st Century Scholars Program helped to alleviate the financial burden, allowing me to focus on academics rather than finances. I am beyond thankful for the financial and educational resources that this program provided.
What are they doing now?
Graduate Assistant for Parent Engagement and Student Care - Indiana University Bloomington
Tyler Garrison
School: Southridge High School
College: Ball State University
Without 21st Century Scholars, I would not have been as confident and prepared for applying to and attending college. I appreciate all of the education and support the program provided me when I needed it most.
Additional Thoughts: One of the biggest values of the 21st Century Scholars program was that it was one of my first guides for what to expect in and what would be expected of me in college and the world. Attending and affording college seemed more certain after becoming a 21st Century Scholar and this designation was one that was very much a part of my personal narrative surrounding college. I will never forget attending one of the 21st Century financial aid information workshops. The presenters were so engaging and I never felt judged for not knowing information. This financial literacy and eventual financial assistance from the program changed my life in so many ways and allowed my family to feel more secure when it came to my college plans."
What are they doing now?
I believe the 21st Century Scholars program profoundly contributed to my success. As a first-generation college student who grew up with a single, low-income parent, college seemed unattainable. Financially, the 21CS program paid 100 percent of my tuition to attend Ball State University where I obtained a BS in 2015. The scholarship allowed me to afford my education and living expenses, and even prepare me to return to my alma mater in 2017 to attend graduate school without having the take on the burden of additional debts. I'm thrilled to say that this program gave me every opportunity to be successful and cannot thank those involved enough for advocating for students like me. I am now a proud, working individual who just purchased his first house and holds a masters degree in education. Working in college admissions, I do my best to help other Indiana students seek a college education and pursue their endeavors.
Keenan Davis
School: Muncie Central High School
College: Ball State University
It gave me hope to go to college.
What are they doing now?
Insurance Agent - State Farm
Sanovia Garrett
School: Muncie Central High School
College: Ball State University
Without the 21st Century Scholarship program, I am unsure if I truly would have went to college and been placed in spaces like Ball State University, where I was further encouraged to pursue a Doctorate degree in the future. At this point I have a Masters in Urban Studies (Community Arts Concentration) and am a first-generation graduate for that degree as well.
21st Century Scholars prepared me in 7th grade for a promising future in college. Growing up in a single (Grand) parent home we faced many financial struggles, but 21st Century Scholars gave light in a space where my grandmother did not understand the Higher Education system.
Thank you so very much for transforming my life for the better.
What are they doing now?
Social Media & Communications Project Manager - Palmer Theological Seminary of Eastern University
Movement Therapist, Entrepreneur
Jessica Gonzalez Casas
School: John Adams High School
College: Holy Cross College
If it weren't for 21st Century Scholars, I would most definitely be in deep debt from my college education. After college, I was able to buy myself my first home and I do believe that wouldn't have been possible if I wouldn't have been fortunate to have the help I did through this program. Being a first generation student, the oldest daughter of four, and being a daughter of immigrants -- I had no idea how I was going to be able to afford college. I'm so thankful that I had this help even if it didn't cover all of my expenses due to my choice of going to a private college.
What are they doing now?
Special Projects Coordinator - La Casa de Amistad
Sean Crye
School: Clinton Prairie
College: Purdue University
I couldn't be more grateful for the 21st Century Scholars program. I was a first generation college student, and my parents were unable to pay for me to attend university. Without this program, I would be in significantly more debt today which would affect both my life outcomes as well as the future of my children. There is no possible way I would be as successful as I am today had it not been for this program. With this program I have been able to pull both myself and my family out of poverty.
What are they doing now?
Board Certified Behavior Analyst - Hopebridge Autism Therapy Center
Constantino Santos
School: Frankfort High School
College: IUPUI
21st Century Scholars gave me the opportunity to attend a four year university and earn a bachelor’s degree. It relieved a huge weight on how I was going to pay my tuition. It covered many of the tuition expenses. I’m glad this program was put in place to help students who want to strive in higher education. I was able to obtain a degree that would help me start my career in many of the jobs available in Indiana.
What are they doing now?
Operations Supervisor at XPO Logistics, Inc.
Michaella Hogan
School: Clay City High School
College: Indiana State University
21st Century Scholars program is a vital part of who I am today. If not for this program I wouldn’t have been able to get a degree to help those in need like I am doing today. I am grateful for this program and am PROUD to be a 21st Century Scholar Alumni! Thank you, 21st Century Scholars!
What are they doing now?
Therapeutic Recreation Specialist - Riley Hospital for Children
Maxwell B. Malone
School: Jeffersonville High School
College: Ivy Tech Community College
Twenty First Century Scholars enabled me to go to college and earn my degree without having to take out any student loan debt. This is a wonderful program and I am very grateful to have been a part of it. I was able to start working in my field before I even graduated from Ivy Tech. I currently work for an engineering firm doing CAD and design for civil engineers and land surveyors. I love what I do very much. I hope that this program continues to be here for young people for many years to come so that they too can benefit.
What are they doing now?
Computer Aided Design Drafter - Power of Design Group, LLC
Bryton Albright
School: Logansport Community High School
College: Indiana Wesleyan University
I could not have completed college without the aid of 21st Century Scholars.
What are they doing now?
Worship Pastor - Upland Community Church
Kim Richhart
School: Brown County High School
College: Ivy Tech Community College
21st Century Scholars opened the door for me to go to college, earn a degree, find a really great job and avoid expensive student loans.
What are they doing now?
Leadership Development Support Specialist - Cummins Inc
Quintin Martin
School: Western Boone Jr./Sr. High School
College: Purdue University
The 21st Century Scholars program made college attainable, where I was able to graduate from Purdue University with two Bachelor degrees. This put me in a tremendous position to successfully progress through a Master's program and attain an academic advising career within higher education at my alma mater, Purdue University. Without the 21st Century Scholars program, these accomplishments would not be possible.
What are they doing now?
Academic Advisor - Purdue University
Brittney Carpenter
School: Blackford High School
College: Ball State University
I am forever grateful for the 21st century scholars program! This program allowed me to achieve my dream of graduating from Ball State University which in turn allowed me to secure my dream job.
What are they doing now?
District Sales Manager - Coca-Cola Bottling Co. Consolidated
Robert Gretencord
School: Benton Central
College: Vincennes University
Become comfortable being uncomfortable
What are they doing now?
Precision Agronomist - Advanced Agrilytics
Tyler Sipe
School: Adams Central
College: Indiana University Purdue University - Fort Wayne
My parents struggled financially, but fortunately had the foresight to sign me up for 21st century scholars. With this program I was able to get my bachelors degree in four years and come out of college debt free. Now five years removed from college i am financially stable, a CPA, and recently accepted a new role as the Controller of a mid-size local company here in Fort Wayne. I am thankful for 21st century scholars as it got me going with the first steps of what hopefully becomes a successful career.
What are they doing now?
Corporate Controller - Physicians Health Plan of Northern Indiana (PHP)
Krystalia Stockey
School: Columbus North
College: Ball State University
The 21st Century Scholars program made college an opportunity for me. As a first generation college graduate, college wasn't on my parents mind nor was it a possibility for them to send me financially.
What are they doing now?
Warranty Adjudicator - Cummins Inc
Jamie Black
School: Bishop Dwenger High School
College: Purdue University
The 21st Century Scholars program enabled me to attend the college I had always dreamed of attending, without having to stress over financial hardships as a teenager and first-generation college student. As the oldest of five children, I had to learn most things on my own and make my way in the “adult” world by trial and error. Having the peace of mind that college tuition was one less thing I had to “figure out” was truly a blessing. I’ve gone on from my bachelors to obtain a Master’s in Public Health and now have been working as a epidemiologist for 3 years at the Indiana State Department of Health. I plan on starting a PhD in the fall of 2021 in Epidemiology.
What are they doing now?
Epidemiologist at the Indiana State Department of Health
Jonathan Steffen
School: South Adams Jr. Sr. High School
College: Indiana University Purdue University (IUPUI) - Fort Wayne
21st Century Scholars enabled me to earn my Bachelors in Science in Nursing, and without it, I would never have had the opportunity to help so many others as an ICU Nurse. Not only that, but it also enabled me to support my own family without the massive burden of debt from a 4 year degree.
What are they doing now?
ICU Nurse - Adams Memorial Hospital