Scholarships

At Will/South Cook Soil & Water Conservation District, we believe that providing our youth with support, not only transforms their paths but steers them toward a better future. Founded in 2009, we have been committed to supporting the lives of students through scholarship.

Congratulations to our past scholarship winners.

You are transforming your path and making a better future for all!

Click Here to download this year's Conservation Education Scholarship Application 2022

Grace F

2019 Winner: Grace Frickenstein

Grace Frickenstein, the daughter of Robert and Kristine of Frankfort, will receive the 2019 EverettMoeller Memorial Conservation Education Scholarship. Everett Moeller served on the Will-South Cook SWCD Board from 1993-2017and was a member of the Will County Farm Bureau where he was active in Ag in the Classroom, a program introducing younger students to agriculture.

Grace is a student at Lincoln-Way East in Frankfort. She plans to attend The University of Wisconsin at Stevens Point and is interested in research that is geared toward conservation and preservation. Grace is passionate about archery and is very successful in local and national competitions. She is also took part in her school’s environmental action club and is a member of several honors societies including NHS, which she completes community service hours for quarterly.

Emily D

2019 Winner: Emily Dickett

Emily Dickett, the daughter of James and Julie of Western Springs, will receive the 2019 Allan MayMemorial Conservation EducationScholarship in memory Allan May who served as the Will-South Cook USDA-NRCS District Conservationist for 30 years.

Emily is a student at the Lyons Township High School. She plans to study environmental engineering with a minor or double major in Spanish. Emily is involved in many school and community sponsored activities such as cross country soccer, tutoring, math team, church youth group, yearbook, and is very proud of being a part of the Lyons Township Community Advisory Council, which has sparked her interest in policy and lawmaking.

Matthew A

2018 Winner: Matthew Atherton

Matthew Atherton, the son of Daniel and Bridget of Plainfield, will receive the 2018 Allan May Memorial Conservation EducationScholarship in memory of Allan May who served as the Will-South Cook USDA-NRCS District Conservationist for 30 years.

Matthew is a student at Plainfield Central High School in Plainfield. He plans to attend the University of Iowa, at Iowa City, Iowa in the fall where he will study natural resources. Matthew considers our natural environment a gift and is excited to pursue a career in natural resources protection, hoping to share what he learns with others. Matthew is currently employed part-time and is a member of the History Through Film Club. He spends as much time as he can outdoors and particularly enjoys fishing and visiting forest preserves.

Lindsay S

2018 Winner: Lindsay Selfridge

Lindsay Selfridge, the daughter of Christopher and Amy of Lemont, will receive the 2018 Harold Liberman Conservation Education Scholarship in memory of Harold Liberman who served as an Associate Director on the Will-South Cook SWCD from 2004-2017.

Lindsay is a student at Lemont High School in Lemont. She plans to attend Coe College in Cedar Rapids, Iowa where she will study environmental science. Lindsay plans a career in natural resource conservation that will include working in environmental policy - shaping legislation and regulations for pollution standards, species conservation and environmental management.

Lindsay is a member of several honor societies, including Science, Mu Alpha Theta and Tri-M Music. President of the Lemont High School science club, Lindsay is currently leading a project to install a “green” roof on the school building. Lindsay is also active in her community and through Project Infinite Green is working with industry scientists devoted to the pursuit of clean energy. Lindsay enjoys traveling with her family, kayaking and hiking.

Lauren T

2018 Winner: Lauren Trail

Lauren Trail, the daughter of Thomas and Elizabeth of Western Springs, will receive the 2018 Everett Moeller Conservation Education Scholarship in memory of Everett Moeller who served on the Will-South Cook SWCD Board from 1993-2017.

Lauren is a student at Lyons Township High School in La Grange. She plans to attend the University of Michigan at Ann Arbor, Michigan or University of Wisconsin at Madison, Wisconsin where she will pursue dual degrees in environmental science and arts. As a result of studying environmental science in a high school AP course, Lauren has found a passion for natural resources. She plans to pursue a career that combines both degrees by designing new technologies that create sustainable solutions for the earth. Lauren has volunteered as physics peer tutor at school and is a member of the Plymouth Fellowship Youth Group at 1st Congregational Church in Western Springs where she participates in mission work. Lauren is also the editor of Menagerie, a student run art and literary school publication. An award winning artist, Lauren enjoys traveling, camping and down hill skiing.

Adam J

2017 Winner: Adam Janicki

On Thursday, March 2nd, Adam Janicki of LaGrange was presented with the 2017 Allan May Memorial Conservation Education Scholarship from the Will-South Cook Soil & Water Conservation District.

Adam is the son of Glenn and Ann of LaGrange. Adam was presented with the award during the SWCD’s Annual Recognition Dinner at the Peotone Atrium. Established in 2007, the $1000 scholarship is awarded each year in memory of Allan May who served as the Will-South Cook USDA-NRCS District Conservationist for 30 years. Luke’s name will be engraved on a plaque, commemorating the scholarship, on display in the SWCD office in New Lenox.

Adam is a student at the Lyons Township High School in LaGrange. He plans to attend University of Minnesota, Twin Cities in the fall where he will study Conservation Biology. With concern for the destruction of biodiversity, Adam hopes to manage and protect biodiversity through activism, education and field research. In addition to volunteering at St. Xavier Catholic Church and Eden Place Conservation Center, Adam’s hobbies include canoeing, hiking and camping.

Danielle M

2017 Winner: Danielle Murawski

On Thursday, March 2nd, Danielle Murawski of Oak Forest was presented with the 2017 Richard “Dick” McHugh Memorial Conservation Education Scholarship from the Will-South Cook Soil & Water Conservation District.

Danielle is the daughter of George and Sharry of Oak Forest. Danielle was presented with the award during the SWCD’s Annual Recognition Dinner at the Peotone Atrium, Will County Fairgrounds. Established in 2009, the $1000 scholarship is awarded each year in memory of Dick McHugh who served on the Will-South Cook SWCD Board for an amazing and unprecedented 50 years. Danielle’s name will be engraved on a plaque, commemorating the scholarship, on display in the SWCD office in New Lenox.

Danielle is a student at Oak Forest High School. She plans to attend Olivet Nazarene University at Bourbonnais, Illinois in the fall where she will study Environmental Science. A member of the Oak Forest H.S. Ecology club, Danielle is also active in local prairie and forest preserve conservation activities. Danielle’s hobbies include drawing, bike riding, yoga and tennis. With a strong appreciation for the environment, Danielle’s future plans include a career protecting and restoring natural resources.

Anna C.

2016 Winner: Anna-Christina Crisman

The SWCD is pleased to announce that Anna-Christina Crisman, the daughter of Jeffery and Katerina of New Lenox, will receive the Manrow Hameister Conservation Education Scholarship. Mr. Hameister served as an Associate Director of the Will/South Cook SWCD until 1990 and as a Conservation Leader until the time of his passing October 12, 2015, he was instrumental in the success of the SWCD’s Annual Meeting and Pork Chop Dinner.

Anna-Christina is a student at Lincoln-Way West in New Lenox. She plans to attend Valparaiso University at Valparaiso, Indiana in the fall and will study biology.

Passionate about abating the pollution of our oceans, Anna-Christina hopes to become a marine biologist. Her hobbies include playing the violin and piano, swimming and reading.

Madeline P.

2016 Winner: Madeline Poole

Madeline Poole, the daughter of Thomas and Susan of Chicago, will receive the 2016 Allan May Memorial Conservation Education Scholarship in memory Allan May who served as the Will-South Cook USDA-NRCS District Conservationist for 30 years.

Madeline is a student at the Chicago High School for Agricultural Sciences. She plans to attend University of Illinois at Champaign, Illinois in the fall where she will study Agricultural and Biological Engineering. With concern for the conservation of soil and water resources, Madeline hopes to work in the field of soil fertility and advanced irrigation after graduating from college. Abigail enjoys kayaking, hiking and reading.

Abigail Z.

2016 Winner: Abigail Zabrodsky

Abigail Zabrodsky, the daughter of Andre and Christina of Brookfield, will receive the 2016 Richard “Dick” McHugh Memorial Conservation Education Scholarship in memory of Dick McHugh who served on the Will / South Cook SWCD Board for an amazing and unprecedented 50 years.

Abigail is a student at Lyons Township High School. She plans to attend Iowa State University at Ames, Iowa in the fall where she will study Environmental Science and Forestry. Abigail’s hobbies include hiking, playing laser tag and embroidery. With a strong appreciation for the environment, Abigail would like to work as a soil conservationist, urban forester or a park ranger after graduating college.

Luke S

2015 Winner: Luke Schubbe

Luke Schubbe, the son of Brian and Sheri Schubbe of Peotone, is the 2015 recipient of the Allan May Conservation Scholarship. Luke is a student at Peotone High School. He plans to attend Illinois State University at Normal, Illinois in the fall where he will study agronomy management and crop/soil science. Luke comes from a family that has farmed for many generations and he expects to carry on the tradition after his graduation. His studies will help him to improve the productivity and efficiency of his family’s business while also conserving the farmland for future generations. Active in his community and his church, Luke also manages his own hay business. He enjoys spending time with friends, playing guitar, physical fitness and restoring antique vehicles.

Sara B

2015 Winner: Sara Berndt

Sara Berndt, the daughter of Joseph and Jill Berndt of Tinley Park, is the 2015 recipient of the Dick McHugh Memorial Scholarship. Sara is a student at Tinley Park High School. She plans to attend Illinois State University at Normal, Illinois in the fall where she will study Conservation Biology. Sara’s hobbies include taking long walks, drawing, playing sports and going to movies. With a strong appreciation for the environment, Sara would like to work for the Illinois Department of Natural Resources or the Forest Preserve District of Will County after graduating from college.

Will K.

2014 Winner: Will Kibler

Will Kibler of Lockport is the recipient of the 2014 Allan May Memorial Conservation Education Scholarship. Will, the son of William and Kathy Kibler, is a student at Plainfield Central High School. He plans to attend Joliet Junior College in the fall with his future plans including a career in Forestry Management. Active in his community and his church, Will enjoys hunting, fishing, skiing and anything involving the outdoors.

Lindsay J.

2014 Winner: Lindsay Johnson

Lindsay Johnson of Monee is the the 2014 recipient of the Dick McHugh Memorial Scholarship. Lindsay, the daughter of Rick and and Andrea Johnson, is a student at Peotone High School. She plans to attend the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign in the fall where she will study Agricultural Communications. An Illinois State Scholar, Lindsay is active in the Peotone FFA Chapter, owns and operates a forage entrepreneurship, is active in Peotone Marching Band and volunteers in several activities within her community. Lindsay’s hobbies include writing, photography and caring for her horses. Lindsay expects to work for an ag-related publication after graduating college.

Dakota C.

2013 Winner: Dakota Cowger

Dakota Cowger, the 2013 recipient of the Richard McHugh Scholarship, is a student at Peotone High School. He plans to attend the University of Illinois – College of Agriculture, Consumer and Environmental Sciences (ACES) in the fall where he will study Agriculture Education. Active in the Peotone FFA Chapter, Dakota hopes one day to lead an FFA chapter of his own. Dakota has volunteered his time with Peotone Relay for Life, Helping Hands and enjoys farming with his family, growing vegetables and spending time with friends.

Rachel J.

2012 Winner: Rachel Januska

Rachel Januska, the recipient of the Richard McHugh Scholarship, is a student at the University of St. Francis in Joliet. She is studying environmental science and has plans for a land management career focusing on the restoration of ecological habitats. With an interest in both the environment and her community, Rachel volunteers at the Midewin National Tallgrass Prairie and with the Girls Scouts of America. Rachel is a graduate of Bolingbrook High School.

Thomas H.

2012 Winner: Thomas Hickey

Thomas Hickey, winner of the Allan May Scholarship, is a student at Neuqua Valley High School in Naperville. He will attend Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology, Terre Haute, Indiana in the fall. Tom will pursue a degree in mechanical engineering. He is specifically interested in environmental stewardship and natural resources conservation as it relates to energy consumption. Tom enjoys running, playing trumpet, ultimate Frisbee, reading and spending time with his little brother, Will.

Grace F.

2011 Winner: Grace Foster

Grace Foster, the recipient of the 2011 Richard McHugh Scholarship, is a student at Lincoln-way West and will be attending Joliet Junior College in the fall. She will be pursuing a degree in Agriculture Education. She plans to pass on her interest in all things agriculture as a teacher at the secondary or post-secondary level. With a passion for her community, Grace enjoys competing livestock, photography and the outdoors.

David T.

2011 Winner: David Taylor

David Taylor of Peotone is the 2011 recipient of the Allen May Conservation Scholarship. David is a graduate of Marian Catholic High School and is presently attending Joliet Junior College. He will attend Governors State University in the fall. David is also concentrating his studies in the Agricultural field and expects to become an Agricultural Consultant. He is interested in sustainable agricultural practices and small-scale production farms. David plays guitar and volunteers in his community.

Allison M.

2010 Winner: Allison Meyer

Allison Meyer, the recipient of the Richard McHugh Scholarship, is a student at Beecher High School and will be attending the University of Illinois, Urbana. She will study Animal Sciences and plans to pursue a career as a veterinarian, specifically working to preserve and protect animals and their habitats.

Tyler C.

2010 Winner: Tyler Clark

Tyler Clark, a student at Homewood-Flossmoor High School, will receive the Conservation Education Scholarship. Tyler plans on attending Spellman College in Atlanta, Georgia where she will pursue an Engineering degree and hopes to become an Environmental Engineer focusing on the protection of natural resources.

Erica C.

2009 Winner: Erica Cogswell

Erica Cogswell of Mokena, is a recent graduate of Lincoln-Way East High School. Erica will be attending Northern Illinois University in DeKalb, this fall, to study accounting.

Rebeckah I.

2009 Winner: Rebeckah Isack

Rebeckah Isack of Mokena, is a graduate of Lincoln-Way East High School in Frankfort, and will be attending Coe College, located in Cedar Rapids, Iowa. She plans on majoring in Environmental Science and hopes to pursue a career in the same field, specifically working to develop “greener” cities across the globe.

Patricia P.

2009 Winner: Patricia Paulausky

Patricia Paulausky of Lockport, is a student at Joliet Junior College, and has been accepted by the University of Illinois Champaign-Urbana. At the University of Illinois she will be pursuing a degree in Agricultural and Biological Engineering and in the future hopes to earn a spot at the Illinois Branch of the Environmental Protection agency so she can continue to fight for conservation on a larger scale.