2025 Scholarship Awards

The Will-South Cook SWCD is pleased to announce the three winners of our

conservation education scholarship awards. These students will receive a $2000

scholarship and be honored at the SWCD’s Annual Recognition Dinner on July 31,

Amanda Mezydlo is the 2025 recipient of the Richard “Dick” McHugh Memorial

Scholarship. Amanda is the daughter of Simon and Cheryl Mezydlo of Peotone. She is

a graduate of Peotone High School and plans to attend Loyola University in the fall.

Amanda has been active in Student Council, FFA, National Honor Society Best

Buddies, Environmental Action Club, and Choir throughout high school.

Clara Bernhard is the 2025 recipient of the Allan May Memorial Scholarship. She is the

daughter of Carl and Joanne Bernhard of Elwood and graduated from Lincoln-Way

West High School. Clara plans to attend the University of Illinois this fall to pursue a

degree in food science. She is an Illinois State Scholar and has been involved with

National Honor Society, Spanish Honor Society, and Math Honor Society at her school.

Natalie Esposito is the 2025 recipient of the Burton Barr Memorial Scholarship. Natalie

is the daughter of Joseph and Bridget Esposito of New Lenox. She is a graduate of

Lincoln-Way West High School. Natalie plans to study animal science and earn her

DVM in wildlife medicine. She is an Illinois State Scholar and a member of National

Honor Society, Math Honor Society, Environmental Action Club, Be the Change Club, as

well as participating in soccer and volleyball.