Josh Shallenberger, Shelby Electric Cooperative (SEC) President/CEO would like to remind co-op members that applications for the 2026 Illinois Electric Cooperative (IEC) Memorial Scholarships are now available. At Shelby Electric
Cooperative (SEC), we believe the key to a brighter future lies in empowering the next generation. That is why electric cooperatives across Illinois are committed to investing in youth through scholarships that honor the legacy of our cooperative family while fueling the dreams and goals of tomorrow’s leaders.
The following 17 scholarships of $3,000 each will be awarded in 2026:
Ten scholarships will be awarded to high school seniors whose parent(s) are members of an Illinois electric cooperative and plan to enroll full-time at a two-year or four-year college, university, or vocational/technical school.
Five scholarships will be awarded to students enrolling full-time at a two-year Illinois community college whose parent(s) are electric cooperative members, employees, or directors.
The Earl W. Struck Memorial Scholarship will be awarded to a high school senior who is the child of an Illinois electric cooperative employee or director and will enroll full-time at a 2-year or a 4-year college, university, or vocational/technical school.
The LaVern and Nola McEntire Memorial Lineworker’s Scholarship supports students pursuing a career in linework through enrollment in the lineworker program at Lincoln Land Community College. Eligible applicants include children of cooperative members, relatives of employees or directors, and individuals who have served or are currently serving in the armed forces or National Guard.
Over the years, SEC has been fortunate to have several IEC Memorial Scholarship winners, and in May 2025, Isabella Miller was recognized for receiving one of these scholarships at the Shelbyville High School’s senior awards night. “These scholarships ensure that our future is powered by knowledge, service, and a shared commitment to excellence,” said Shallenberger.
Information has been sent to area high school guidance counselors and is available on the cooperative’s website, shelbyelectric.coop, under the “Community” menu tab. The deadline to apply online for the IEC Memorial
Scholarships is Dec. 31, 2025. The lineworker scholarship deadline is April 30, 2026. For more information regarding scholarships, contact Faith Wheeler at 217-774-3986 or email scholarship@shelbyelectric.coo