Powering the Future: 17 scholarships, $3,000 each
At EnerStar, we believe empowering the next generation is the key to a brighter future. That’s why electric cooperatives across Illinois are committed to investing in our youth through scholarships that honor the legacy of our cooperative family and fuel the dreams and goals of tomorrow’s leaders.
The Association of Illinois Electric Cooperatives will award 17 scholarships, each worth $3,000, to outstanding students from the electric cooperative family through the Thomas H. Moore Illinois Electric Cooperatives (IEC) Memorial Scholarship Program.
“This isn’t just about financial aid — it’s also about empowering students,” said EnerStar’s Angela Griffin. “Illinois’ electric cooperatives are always seeking ways to bring about positive change in our communities. Supporting our youth through scholarship programs is a powerful way we help shape the future.
Here’s a brief rundown of the scholarships available.
- Ten scholarships will be awarded to high school seniors whose parent(s) are Illinois electric co-op members, giving these students a bright start on their educational journey.
- Earl W. Struck Memorial Scholarship is reserved for a student whose parent is an Illinois electric cooperative employee or director, honoring the legacy of service within our cooperative family.
- Five scholarships are dedicated to students enrolling full-time at a two-year Illinois community college, who are also children of an electric cooperative member in Illinois.
- LaVern and Nola McEntire Memorial Lineworker’s Scholarship is designed for those ready to light up the world by pursuing a career in linework and are enrolled or plan to enroll at Lincoln Land Community College’s lineworker program. This scholarship supports students of co-op members, relatives of employees or directors, and those who have served or are currently serving in the armed forces or National Guard.
The general scholarship application deadline is Dec. 31, 2025, and the lineworker scholarship is due by April 30, 2026. For more information or to apply, visit the scholarship page!