News Story

This year, four students have been selected for the distinguished Illinois Bankers Scholarship, and two were awarded the esteemed Linda J. Koch Scholarship. “These scholarships are not only a recognition of the academic accomplishments of our recipients but also celebrate their enthusiasm and dedication to the financial services industry,” said Callan Stapleton, EVP & President of Education Services. “We are thrilled to support these students as they develop into the future leaders of banking.”

2024 Linda J. Koch Scholarship recipients:

  • Trace Donnan, PORTA High School/Augustana College
    Sponsored by Petefish, Skiles, & Co. Bank
  • Ava Harwood, John Hersey High School/Indiana University, Kelly School of Business
    Sponsored by The PNC Financial Services Group, Inc.

2024 Illinois Bankers Scholarship recipients:

  • Peter Anast, Prospect High School/Indiana University, Bloomington
    Sponsored by PNC Bank
  • Peyton Bowman, Bushnell Prairie City High School/Spoon River College, Macomb
    Sponsored by Farmers & Merchants State Bank of Bushnell
  • Ashton McPherson, Mt. Vernon High School/Southern Illinois University
    Sponsored by Peoples National Bank
  • Colleen Roberts, Stillman Valley High School/Northern Illinois University
    Sponsored by Stillman BancCorp, N.A.

"These scholarships play a crucial role in encouraging the next generation of financial professionals. By investing in these students, we are investing in the future of banking," added Stapleton.