South Bend Times

Student “Realizing the Dream” recipient

Holy Cross College is excited to share that current student Dion Payne-Miller was one of twenty-nine first-generation Indiana college students named a “Realizing the Dream” recipient by the Independent Colleges of Indiana (ICI). This program gave him the chance to get a boost to his education funds this academic year and re-connect with an influential educator who helped him along the way. All recipients were celebrated at a  banquet on February 25 at the Eiteljorg Museum.

Made possible by a grant from Lilly Endowment Inc., the scholarship program annually recognizes first-generation college students from ICI colleges and universities. Students are selected for the $4,000 award for outstanding achievement during their freshman year as they successfully advance toward completing their bachelor’s degrees.

“Thanks to the continued support of Lilly Endowment, we get the opportunity to hear the inspiring stories of these first-generation students and the impact local educators have had on their drive to succeed academically,” ICI President & CEO Kurt D. Dykstra said. “These scholarship awards will provide critical support for these young people who are dreaming of future success.”

In addition to the students’ scholarship awards, the influential educators also receive $1,000 in professional development grants.

Original source can be found here.