Yargus Family Foundation gift strengthens educational pathway between Lake Land College and Indiana State University
A new scholarship at Indiana State University will help create opportunities for students in east-central Illinois to pursue a four-year degree, thanks to a $105,000 gift from the Yargus Family Foundation.
Established through this generous gift, the Yargus Family Foundation Scholarship will provide financial assistance to students transferring from Lake Land College in Mattoon, Illinois, to Indiana State University, helping to ease the financial burden of completing their undergraduate education.
"We see this scholarship as more than financial support for students. It represents a partnership between our local schools, Lake Land College, and Indiana State University that helps create opportunities for young people right here in the Wabash Valley,” said Larry Yargus and Meg Steward, Board Members of the Yargus Family Foundation. “By investing in local students and strengthening these educational connections, we are helping develop the next generation of leaders, professionals, and community members who will contribute to the long-term success and vitality of our region."
Rooted in a commitment to strengthening communities and investing in future generations, the Yargus Family Foundation supports initiatives that create meaningful, lasting impact throughout the region. Through its philanthropic efforts, the Indiana-based foundation has championed youth programs, community development, and projects that improve opportunities for individuals and families.
“For many of our students, Lake Land College is the beginning of a much larger journey,” said Dr. Josh Bullock, President of Lake Land College. “We take great pride in helping them discover their strengths, develop their skills, and determine what comes next. The Yargus Family Foundation’s generosity will play an important role in helping our students take that next step at Indiana State University, and we are grateful for their commitment to creating opportunities for students in the communities we serve.”
The scholarship reflects their commitment to their community by investing directly in students from Clark, Edgar, and Crawford Counties in Illinois, providing a pathway for students to build upon their education at Lake Land College and continue pursuing their academic and professional goals at Indiana State.
“Creating accessible academic pathways and removing barriers to student success are central to our mission at Indiana State University,” said Indiana State University President Mike Godard. “The Yargus Family Foundation’s generous investment reinforces our commitment to ensuring every Sycamore is supported throughout their educational journey. By strengthening opportunities for Lake Land College transfer students, we are helping them build a strong foundation for a meaningful, career-connected future.”
The establishment of the Yargus Family Foundation Scholarship reflects the important role philanthropy plays in shaping the future of higher education. Through this gift, the foundation is creating a lasting source of support for students while extending its philanthropic reach to Indiana State University.
“Scholarships like this do more than provide financial assistance. They give students the confidence and opportunity to take the next step in their education,” said Jeremiah Turner, Associate Vice President of University Advancement. “The Yargus Family Foundation recognizes the lasting value of higher education and the possibilities it creates for future generations. We are incredibly grateful for their generosity and the meaningful difference this scholarship will make in the lives of future Sycamores.”
To be eligible for the Yargus Family Foundation Scholarship, students must be enrolled at Lake Land College and transferring to Indiana State University to complete their undergraduate degree. Applicants must also be residents of Clark, Edgar, or Crawford Counties in Illinois, with first preference given to students from Clark County and second preference to students from Edgar or Crawford Counties.
Through this investment, the Yargus Family Foundation is helping students take the next step toward earning their degrees while strengthening educational opportunities for future generations throughout the region.