The Kelli Joy O’Laughlin Memorial Foundation is accepting applications for their scholarship program for the Class of 2026.
These awards are dedicated to honoring the memory of Kelli Joy O’Laughlin, a vibrant student whose legacy of kindness and compassion continues to inspire her family and friends every day.
This year, the foundation will award six scholarships with a combined value of $56,000 to help Illinois high school seniors achieve their educational goals:
Category 1: Five (5) $2,000 renewable scholarships (totaling $8,000 each over four years).
Category 2: One (1) $4,000 renewable scholarship (totaling $16,000 over four years), specifically for students demonstrating financial need.
They are looking for student-athletes who have participated in high school sports for at least three of their four years and who embody Kelli’s spirit of kindness.
The application requires a 500-word essay describing how the applicant has demonstrated compassion to a friend or classmate in need.
To apply, applications must be submitted exclusively through their website at kjofund2.com. Student deadline is 11 p.m. on Thursday, Feb. 12. Recommendation Deadline is 10 p.m., Monday, Feb. 16.
Since their inception, the foundation has awarded over $883,000 in scholarships to 112 students.
The Kelli Joy O’Laughlin Memorial Foundation was established in memory of Kelli Joy O’Laughlin, a freshman at Lyons Township High School whose life was tragically cut short in October 2011.
Through scholarships and charitable initiatives, the foundation strives to honor Kelli’s legacy by making a positive impact on the lives of others.