Skip to main content

Area youths awarded scholarships from Macon County 4-H and Extension Foundation

DECATUR, Ill. — The end of the school year brings graduations, honors nights, and scholarship announcements. Several Macon County 4-H members have been selected to receive scholarships from the Macon County 4-H and Extension Foundation. These individuals have demonstrated outstanding leadership in their clubs and communities and academic excellence.

Cole Rappe, son of Chad and Shelia, has been awarded the 4-H Undergraduate College Scholarship, the Betty and Mona Hartwig Scholarship, and the Warren E. Myers Agricultural Scholarship. Cole has been a Blue Mound Green Machines 4-H Club member for nine years and has held several leadership positions. He has participated in many individual projects such as weaving, cooking, photography, videography, and tractors and received county and state awards.

Zachariah Jalley, son of Anh and Wendy, has been awarded a 4-H Undergraduate College Scholarship. Zachariah is a founding member of the award-winning 4-H SCREAM robotics club. During his brief four-year 4-H career, Zachariah has participated in public speaking, esports, and multiple robotics competitions, including the 2022 FIRST World Championship in Houston, Texas.

Ben Pasquariello, son of Mike and Libby, has been awarded a 4-H Undergraduate College Scholarship. Ben has been a member of the award-winning 4-H SCREAM robotics club for four years. He has competed in multiple robotics competitions, including the 2022 FIRST World Championship in Houston, Texas. Ben has exhibited projects in 3D design and esports.

The Macon County 4-H and Extension Foundation awards scholarships to students based on years of 4-H membership, academic achievements, school and community activities, character, and citizenship.

WRITER: Maria Lightner, Marketing and Communications, University of Illinois Extension

ABOUT 4-H: Illinois 4-H is the flagship youth development program of University of Illinois Extension and administered through the College of Agriculture, Consumer, and Environmental Sciences. 4-H grows true leaders, youth who are empowered for life today and prepared for a career tomorrow.

ABOUT EXTENSION: Illinois Extension leads public outreach for University of Illinois by translating research into action plans that allow Illinois families, businesses, and community leaders to solve problems, make informed decisions, and adapt to changes and