Foundation Announces 2009 Lilly Scholars

Two Scott County students have been named recipients of full-tuition, four-year scholarships as the Scott County Community Foundation 2009 Lilly Endowment Community Scholars.

Megan Goodin and Brooke Routh will receive full tuition to the Indiana college of their choice and an $800 yearly stipend for required books and equipment.

Megan is the daughter of Gregory Goodin of Austin. She will graduate from Austin High School. Her activities include National Honor Society, Sunshine Society, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Scott County, Student Council, and serving as Class Officer. She plans to attend Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis and major in occupational therapy.
“I am very, very excited and honored,” Megan said, upon learning she received the scholarship. “It means a lot, and it’s a great honor to get.”

Megan said she was surprised to learn she received the scholarship, but “I think all of my hard work finally paid off.”

Brooke Routh is the daughter of Michael Routh of Scottsburg. She will graduate from Scottsburg High School. Her activities include president of Sunshine Society, Class President, Student Council, board member for United Way of Scott County, cheerleading and tennis. She plans to attend the University of Evansville and major in nursing.

“I was overwhelmed with emotions,” said Brooke, about winning the scholarship. “It’s an honor because I’ve worked hard for this and getting the opportunity that not many people have. It’s a blessing.”

Twenty-one students applied for the Lilly Endowment Community Scholarship. Students were judged based on financial consideration, community involvement, extra-curricular activities, work activities, academics and two essays. Several students advanced to the interview portion. After the scholarship committee narrowed the field to two nominees and two alternates, the finalists’ names were submitted to Independent Colleges of Indiana Inc. (ICI) for the selection of the recipients.

ICI is a nonprofit corporation that represents 31 regionally accredited degree granting, nonprofit, private colleges and universities in the state.

The scholarships are the result of a statewide Lilly Endowment initiative to help Hoosier students reach higher levels of education. Indiana ranks among the lowest states in the percentage of residents over the age of 25 with a bachelor’s degree. There were 216 scholarships awarded statewide.