The Kendall County Health Department is proud to announce the recipients of its 2026 Community Services Block Grant (CSBG) Scholarship Program. During the July 21, 2026, Board of Health meeting, the Health Department awarded $20,000 in scholarships to four local residents pursuing higher education.
Board of Health Chair Karen Kelly and Executive Director RaeAnn Van Gundy presented the scholarships, with each recipient receiving a $5,000 award. Scholarship recipients were selected through a competitive application process based on demonstrated financial need, academic achievement, and involvement in their schools and communities.
The CSBG Scholarship Program is designed to help reduce the financial barriers associated with higher education by assisting with tuition, mandatory fees, and program-specific educational supplies. The program is funded through the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO), Office of Community Assistance, and supports students from income-eligible households who have demonstrated strong academic potential.
Eligible applicants were able to attend a college, university, or trade school, either in Illinois or out of state, through in-person or remote learning, and on either a part-time or full-time basis.
The Kendall County Health Department is pleased to recognize the following recipients of the 2026 Community Services Block Grant (CSBG) Scholarship Program:
- Cameron Raymer of Morris, Illinois, who will attend Olivet Nazarene University to pursue a degree in Music Performance (Oboe) and Music Education.
- Jonathan Bustos of Plano, Illinois, who will attend Waubonsee Community College to pursue a degree in Civil Engineering.
- Zaynab Ahmed of Yorkville, Illinois, who will attend Waubonsee Community College to pursue a degree in Business and Digital Marketing.
- Abigail Villarreal of Minooka, Illinois, who will attend Loras College to pursue a degree in Kinesiology.
The Kendall County Health Department congratulates each of these outstanding students and wishes them continued success as they pursue their educational and career goals.
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