The Kane County 4-H Foundation recently selected its scholarship recipients for 2015, awarding $1,000 each to local 4-H members Brittany McCullough of St. Charles and Blake Sunderlage of Genoa.

Scholarship recipients were selected on the basis of 4-H Youth Development program involvement, 4-H achievements, community service, school involvement and future plans in 4-H. High school seniors, and post-high school students enrolled full-time in an educational program, were encouraged to apply.

McCullough received a $1,000 educational scholarship from the Kane County 4-H Foundation. Sunderlage was selected for a $500 educational scholarship from the Foundation and the Bob Konen Memorial Scholarship, which is a $500 award.

Brittany McCullough

Brittany is a 6-year 4-H’er. She is a member of A Bit More 4-H Club. This fall, she will be attending The University of Findlay in Ohio. Brittany hopes to puruse a career utilizing the knowledge she has gained from particpating in 4-H horse bowl. She is considering being a vet or doing nutritional research with animals. Her parents are Jeff and Nicolle McCullough of St. Charles.

Blake Sunderlage

Blake is a 10-year 4-H’er. He is a member of Burlington Ag 4-H Club. This fall, he will be attending Kishwaukee College in Malta. Blake will pursue a Diesel Power Technology Degree and a Welding Certificate. His goal is to join the Local 150 Operator Union with a career in Diesel Mechanics or Welding. Blake enjoys working with his hands and operating/repairing machines. His parents are Todd and Karen Sunderlage of Genoa.

Monies for these scholarships are made available through fundraising efforts and private donations to the Kane County 4-H Foundation. The Bob Konen Memorial Scholarship was first available in 2010 and is made possible through memorial donations from family and friends. Mr. Konen was a 50‑year 4-H supporter serving as a member, club leader, and a volunteer.

Donations and monies raised by the Kane County 4-H Foundation support many countywide events and activities including volunteer support, training, and recognition; government day; fair activities and fair awards; clean barn awards; educational scholarships; and general 4-H and University of Illinois Extension office support.

4-H is part of University of Illinois Extension. It is a community of young people across America learning leadership, citizenship, and life skills. If you are interested in learning more about 4-H, contact University of Illinois Extension in Kane County at 535 S. Randall Road, St. Charles, or call 630-584-6166. Office hours are Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. until 4:30 p.m. Visit online at web.extension.illinois.edu/dkk/.

University of Illinois Extension provides educational programs and research-based information to help Illinois residents improve their quality of life, develop skills and solve problems. University of Illinois Extension provides equal opportunities in programs and employment.

SOURCE: University of Illinois Extension press release