Gwen Kahlke, Jeightlin Sickels and John Reynolds were each awarded $5,000 for college through the Nathan Cobb Memorial Scholarship. [Photos by WIRC].
Three McDonough County college students are now one step closer to finishing their degrees thanks to the Nathan Cobb Memorial Scholarship. Jeightlin Sickels, John Reynolds and Gwen Kahlke each received $5,000 that can be used towards tuition, books, or room and board.
Sickels is enrolled at Minnesota North College studying physical education. Reynolds is pursuing a degree in accounting at Southern Illinois University, Carbondale. Kahlke is attending Central College in Iowa to earn a degree in kinesiology.
This special scholarship was created in memory of McDonough County resident Nathan Cobb, a proud team member of Western Illinois Regional Council (WIRC) known for his kindness and compassion to help others in need. His parents, Janet and Lee Cobb, provide funding for the scholarship, and WIRC evaluates scholarship applications on their behalf. Applications typically open in the spring. To be considered, the applicant must be a McDonough County resident and complete a short essay. Award funds are distributed directly to the successful applicant’s college or university.
Sickels and Reynolds attended a small award celebration at WIRC to meet Janet and Lee Cobb and members of the WIRC Scholarship Committee. Macomb Mayor Michael Inman, WIRC Executive Director Roger Pavey, WIRC Board Members Keith Boeckelman, Byron Shabazz, and Lauren Merritt, and Former WIRC Executive Director Suzan Nash congratulated the students. Kahlke, who was unable to attend the celebration due to scheduling conflicts, met members of the WIRC Scholarship Committee at a later date.
“All three students were enthusiastic about their studies and grateful for receiving the scholarship,” said WIRC Community Services & Public Relations Director Jamie Roth. “They each have bright futures ahead of them.”
WIRC is a nonprofit that helps people and communities. The Agency has offices in Macomb and Galesburg. To learn more about their free services that help people in need, visit their website at wirpc.org, find them on social media, or call 309-837-2997. WIRC is an equal opportunity provider and employer.