The Partnership's 25th Anniversary Kickoff

In 1992 The Partnership for Educational Excellence was founded by Gillespie resident Nanci Grandone. She invited a group of friends and acquaintances to discuss the possibility of supporting Pre-K through 12 education in Macoupin County’s Community Unit School District 7 (CUSD 7).

Twenty-five years later, this 501(c)3 non-profit education foundation is celebrating this landmark anniversary. Its all-volunteer board of directors is proud to report that it has invested $570,000 in the school children of CUSD7 as more than 1,000 classroom mini-grants and $215,500 in 393 academic tuition scholarships for post-secondary education. And Nanci as well as two other founders, John Fassero, Jr. and Donna Prevedell, are still on the board!

All of these funds were entrusted to The Partnership by friends and neighbors, alums and local businesses, foundations and corporations large and small.

The Partnership is humbled by the faith and confidence that our “partners” have shown in the foundation. And it is determined to keep its mission alive by increasing its scholarships from $500 to $1,000 per student per year. Because up to 30 percent of each Gillespie High School graduating class receives a scholarship, this increase has prompted a fund raising campaign. The goal is raise $25,000, all to be used to match our many established $500 memorial scholarships, so that in future each new scholar can have $1,000 toward tuition.

All year we will be celebrating the accomplishments of our past scholars. We hope that you are heartened to read of their life choices and the value they place on post-secondary education. We also hope that old friends and new “partners” will consider helping future grads with a gift of any size. To mark this 25th year and our goal, we are encouraging gifts of $25 or group gifts from friends or colleagues to fund – and name! – an entire match ($500). But all gifts are received with gratitude.

Donations are tax deductible and are acknowledged with a letter/receipt when addresses are provided. For more information and to donate, you can contact The Partnership at P.O. Box 125, Gillespie IL 62033 or at www.thepartnership7.org 

The Partnership 2017 Scholars

FRONT ROW (L TO R) Rosie Emmenderfer, Partnership director, Samantha Alepra, Hannah Doty, Kendra Cherry, Emily Barylske, Seth Korunka, Rayanne Thompson, Mari Katich, Emily Elizondo

SECOND ROW (L TO R) Mya Sudmeier, Aubree Borror, Amanda Schmidt, Teran Schlechte, MacKenzie Ikerman, Ethan Blevins, Liberty Hartley, Don Throne, Partnership director

THIRD ROW (L TO R) Chase Vermillion, Allison Bires, Zachary Carr, Trevor Fredericks, Tate Wargo, Daniel Dobrino, Nicholas Wyatt, Chandler McDaniel, Jace Timmermeier

May 21, 2017 - Gillespie, Illinois - A full 26 percent of Gillespie High School graduating seniors were awarded $1,000 tuition scholarships by The Partnership for Educational Excellence on its 25th anniversary. Every dollar of these awards came from local individuals, businesses, alums, and foundations. And thanks to its partners’ ongoing generosity, for the second year The Partnership was able to raise the amounts to $1,000 each.

The 23 Gillespie High School (GHS) scholars received $500 each from named memorial scholarships and a matching $500 from The Partnership’s general funds. The awards were presented by Partnership directors Don Throne and Rosie Emmenderfer during commencement ceremonies on Sunday, May 21, 2017.

"Thanks to 25 years of loyal support from hundreds of donors, we can recognize these 23 excellent students and give them a little extra help furthering their educations," says John Fassero, Jr., president of The Partnership. "This year’s life essays once again show clear setting of realistic goals. The letters of recommendation reveal young people who have earned the respect of the adults in their lives for their hard work, community involvement, and proven ability to accomplish goals. We are proud of the small role we may play in their future successes" says Fassero, a founding director.

"Our scholarships are not large, because we want to recognize the greatest number of students," says Fassero. "And parents over the years have told us that the tuition payment does help their students during first semester." The funds are paid directly to the colleges.

This year a total of $23,000 was awarded. To date the Partnership has awarded $215,500 in tuition scholarships to 393 graduates of Gillespie High School. 

In addition, The Partnership again administered two $100 cash awards from the estate of Evaline Boehmke for musicianship in band and chorus.

This year’s scholars and their awards are:

THE DR. D. ROSS AND MRS. ROSEMARY BILLITER SCHOLARSHIP.  This scholarship was instituted by the Billiters to thank the many area residents who supported Dr. Billiter’s practice as general surgeon at St. Francis Hospital for many years. 

Jace Timmermeier, son of Jeff and Tracy Timmermeier of rural Litchfield. He will attend Lakeland Community College in Mattoon, Illinois, to study civil engineering technology.

CARROLL-KEUPPER SCHOLARSHIP established by the late Rosemary Keupper Valle and her sister Lillian Keupper in honor of their families who have been involved in medicine, world health, and banking/finance. Their grandfather Anthony Carroll, a member of the Gillespie school board, initiated strong family support for the local school system and its students. 

Emily Elizondo, daughter of Christopher and Lori Elizondo of Gillespie, who will attend the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign to study chemical engineering.

ELINOR DAVIES NURSING SCHOLARSHIP by friends and family in honor of Elinor who served many decades as school nurse in CUSD#7. Elinor was active in the United Methodist Church.

Liberty Hartley, daughter of Melissa and Donald Hartley of Gillespie, who will attend Lewis and Clark Community College to study nursing.

ANDREW EASTON, JR. MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP. A teacher and coach for more than 20 years, his passion was to motivate his students and athletes to achieve to their highest level. He was a member of the Fellowship of Christian Athletes, the group that funded this scholarship.

Amanda Schmidt, daughter of Weye and Nancy Schmidt of Gillespie, who will attend Illinois State University in Normal to study business administration.

DANNY GRIFFEL MEMORIAL AGRICULTURE SCHOLARSHIP by family and friends. Danny, a Korean Conflict veteran, was honored in 2009 for continuous ownership and operation of the family farm since 1856. He was active in a number of civic, benevolent, and recreational organizations. His son David serves on the CUSD7 school board; his daughter Donna Easton is a school nurse in CUSD7.

Kendra Cherry, daughter of Jon and Christie Cherry of Benld, who will attend Lewis and Clark Community College to prepare to study aerospace engineering.

JOHN AND MARY HICKS SCHOLARSHIP FOR THE TRADES. John, mayor of Gillespie and a local businessman and mayor of Gillespie, and Mary, an active civic volunteer, offer this award in memory of Floyd and Betty Hicks. "My dad’s dad saw the honor of working with your own two hands," says John. 

Chase Vermillion, son of Joe Vermillion and Brian and Brenda Doty of Gillespie, who will attend Lewis and Clark Community College to study sports broadcasting.

JULIA KRAVANYA MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP by family and friends. Born in Scotland, she married Anton J. Kravanya in1942 in Gillespie. They raised two children, Fran now Mrs. Mike Slapak of South Carolina, and Tony, who operates Kravanya Funeral Homes with his wife Marilyn, Julia’s grandson Anthony and granddaughter Lyn in Gillespie, Benld, and Bunker Hill. Another grandson Nicholas is a dentist in Carlinville. 

Rayanne Thompson, daughter of Suzy Foret and Brian Thompson of Gillespie, who will attend Lewis and Clark Community College to study dental hygiene.

JOSEPH and EILEEN LIBBRA MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP. Married for 48 years, they were hard working grain and livestock farmers and dedicated to their four children, Mary, Joe, Trish, and Carol, and their ten grandchildren. 

MacKenzie Ikerman, daughter of Jeff and Wendy Ikerman of Gillespie, who will attend Southeast Missouri State University in Cape Girardeau to study nursing.

HENRY MARCACCI MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP by friends and family. Hank taught business in CUSD#7 for 33 years and served as county superintendent of schools for 8 years. He and his wife Lucille raised seven children. Hank died at age 101 on January 25, 2011. A granddaughter was a past Partnership scholar.

Hannah Doty, daughter of Christy Blank and Brian Doty of Gillespie, who will attend Lewis and Clark Community College to study science and pre-K education.

DENIS McGRADY SR. MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP established in loving memory by family. Denis graduated from the University of Illinois Commerce and Law program, returned to Gillespie to raise nine children, and to practice law for almost 50 years. In addition to valuing education, Denis loved roses and trees, his garden becoming a destination for GHS botany field trips.

Chandler McDaniel, son of Staci and David McDaniel of Gillespie, who will attend McKendree University in Lebanon, Illinois, to study to become an actuary.

LANA ODORIZZI MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP by Anonymous, friends, and family. Mrs. O, as most of her students called her, was a beloved elementary school P.E. teacher and middle- and high school volleyball coach for 13 years in CUSD7. She also coached softball, track, soccer, little league, gymnastics and taught fitness and swimming to hundreds of local children. 

Zachary Carr, son of Dana and Todd Skinner and Bob Carr of Gillespie, who will attend Illinois State University in Normal to study business management.

BETTY OLIVE MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP because of the high value she placed on education. Known for her "green thumb" and prolific flower and vegetable gardens, this native of Alhambra cherished a lifelong dream of becoming a nurse. She focused instead on raising her children – Judy, Kay, Pam, Patti, and Randy, all graduates of CUSD7 – on the farm. 

Aubree Borror, daughter of Keith and Marti Borror of Benld, who will attend Columbia College in Chicago to study interior architecture.

ROBERT M. PREVEDELL MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP Robert lived 94 years as a farmer near Eagarville. Beloved by all for his dignity, good nature, integrity, and generosity, he was a prolific woodworker; veteran house mover; self-taught musician; talented gardener. He was proud of and devoted to his late wife Catherine, his four children (Bob, Toni, Pat, and Pam), seven grandchildren, and nine great-grandchildren. 

Teran Schlechte, daughter of Tiffani Pirok and Todd Schlechte of Staunton, who will attend Lewis and Clark Community College to study occupational therapy.

TAMMY ROSENTRETER MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP by family and friends. A U.S. Air Force veteran, she was active in her church and a dedicated teacher. She did it all through her valiant battle against cancer, inspiring Team Tammy fund raisers while maintaining her top priority: her family - husband Jerry and children Josh, Tateum and Tess. 

Samantha Alepra, daughter of Bill and Jenni Alepra of Gillespie, who will attend Lewis and Clark Community College to study art.

TRAVIS SEMPLOWSKI MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP established in loving memory by family and friends. Travis, a graduate of GHS, was a member of Future Farmers of America. He was working as an automotive specialist at WalMart in Litchfield when he died tragically in 2009 at the age of 21. 

Trevor Fredericks, son of Russell and Gina Fredericks of Gillespie, who will attend Southern Illinois University at Edwardsville to study industrial engineering.

JEANETTE DOBRINO SMALL MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP. Her family honors her memory with this scholarship to support the students of CUSD7 where her grandchildren attend school.

Mari Lyn Katich, daughter of Cris and Sheila Katich of Gillespie, will attend Lewis and Clark Community College. She is undecided about her major.

SAM STEWART MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP. Sam was a talented athlete and teacher whose lifelong dedication to sports and education shaped his career in CUSD7 as baseball coach for 30 years as well as basketball and football. "Sam would be pleased. This scholarship is a way of ‘paying it forward,’ in his memory," says his wife, Suzanne. 

Tate Wargo, son of Tim and Julie Wargo of Benld, who will attend Lewis and Clark Community College to study nursing.

TEBBE FAMILY FOUNDATION SCHOLARSHIP for students of computer science and engineering plus many classroom mini-grants have been funded by GHS graduate Mark Tebbe, Class of 1979, founder of Lante Corporation, and his parents Ralph and Rose Marie Tebbe through their family foundation. 

Daniel Dobrino, son of Robert and Diane Dobrino of Benld, who will attend Southern Illinois University at Edwardsville to study computer science.

UMWA Local 1613 SCHOLARSHIP represents coal miners, health care workers, truck drivers, manufacturing employees and public employees in our communities. The union fights for safe workplaces, good wages and benefits, and fair representation in workplaces. 

Allison Bires, daughter of John and Ann Bires of Gillespie, who will attend Southern Illinois University at Carbondale to study mechanical engineering.

MICHAEL VALENTI MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP by friends and family is awarded in loving memory of this 1994 GHS graduate who lost his life in 1999 in a tragic accident. Michael had completed an associate’s degree at Lewis and Clark Community College and was continuing his education at Southern Illinois University at Edwardsville. 

Emily Barylske, daughter of Cathy and Stanley Barylske of Benld, who will attend McKendree University in Lebanon, Illinois, to study psychology.

MIKE AND PERINA VERTICCHIO SCHOLARSHIP by family. This award was established to recognize the dedication and years of service to the Gillespie school district by Mike and the late Perina Verticchio. Perina was an elementary teacher for many years and Mike was a teacher, coach, and administrator whose education career began as a literacy specialist during World War II.

Nicholas Wyatt, son of James and Kasey Wyatt of Gillespie, who will attend Lewis and Clark Community College to study chemistry.

VFW AUXILIARY 4547 SCHOLARSHIP. by members. The women of the Auxiliary make this gift in recognition of the importance of education.

Ethan Blevins, son of Greg and Staci Blevins of Gillespie, who will attend Lewis and Clark Community College to study occupational therapy.

LOIS ZANTER MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP by friends and family. Lois was an elementary school teacher and librarian in CUSD7 for 29 years. Devoted to education herself, she was proud that her daughter Gail Niehaus, grandchildren Casey Niehaus and Kara Strode are also dedicated teachers. 

Mya Sudmeier, daughter of John and Joellen Nickel of Gillespie, who will attend the St. Louis Culinary Institute of Hickey College to study culinary arts.

EVALINE BOEHMKE MUSICIANSHIP AWARDS: Evaline (Mrs. Robert) Boehmke, was an ardent supporter of music in CUSD7. She left a bequest for $100 cash awards for students to be selected by the music faculty of Gillespie High School for outstanding musicianship in GHS band and chorus. This year the Band and Chorus winners are the same person: Seth Korunka.

$5000 Raffle Winner

Julie Wargo of Benld is the winner of The Partnership's second annual raffle for a cash prize of $5,000.  Jillian Smith, a first grade student at Ben-Gil Elementary School (BGES) drew Julie's name during the BGES annual spaghetti dinner.  Jillian drew while John Fassero, Jr., president of The Parntership, looked on and Rose Marie Tebbe, treasurer, held a bowl filled with entrants' names.  The winning ticket was sold by Julie Zirkelbach of Eagarville, one of The Partnership's newest board members.  Thanks to all who purchased raffle tickets!  Their generosity makes it possible for The Partnership to increase its tuition scholarships this year from $500 to $1,000 for graduates of Gillespie High School who will continue their post-secondary education.

"For the Love of Education" Trivia Night

February 13, 2017 - Gillespie IL

    The winners at the "For the Love of Education" trivia night of 4 February were perennial participants led by Dennis Weiss of Mulberry Grove. The team, one of 24 participating in The Partnership for Educational Excellence’s annual fund raiser.

    All proceeds from the jam-packed evening will be used in classroom mini-grants within Community Unit School District 7's (CUSD7) pre-K through 12th grade classrooms. 

    In a welcome synergy, the majority of the players that night were CUSD7 teachers and their families. In addition, five Gillespie Middle School eighth grade boys were volunteer runners. Since 1992 The Partnership has given almost $570,000 of donors’ contributions to CUSD7 schools to supplement curriculum

    The second place team was led by Phil Cavaretto of rural Staunton. Third place went to the local Cordum-Tebbe team. All three winning teams donated back generously to The Partnership.

    The evening was also the kickoff for The Partnership’s second annual Grand Raffle. The one-and-only grand prize will be $5,000 cash. The winner’s name will be drawn on Palm Sunday 9 April 2017. 

    An early-bird drawing on kickoff night netted $100 each for two attendees: Patty Shafer of Staunton and Brooke Buhs of Benld, who accepted for her mother Connie Wenzel.

Only 500 tickets will be sold. Tickets are $20 apiece and are available at Hicks Maytag on Macoupin Street in downtown Gillespie. Or they can be purchased from any Partnership director: Gail Cavallo, Judy Cordum, Rosie Emmenderfer, John Fassero, Jr., Nanci Grandone, Donna Prevedell, Katie Ronald, Carole Scheller, Rose Marie Tebbe, Don Throne, or Julie Zirkelbach.

    The Partnership is an IRS-chartered 501(c)3, all volunteer, not-for-profit educational foundation which has also awarded nearly $200,000 in academic tuition scholarships for post-secondary education to graduates of Gillespie High School.

FIRST PLACE TEAM (L to R): Dennis Weiss, Rudy Elam, Rod Bergman, Glenn Burris, Chris Marten, Stacy Marten, Kathy Jones, Louise Weiss, Eric Schlauf, and Linda Wheelan

SECOND PLACE TEAM (L to R back row): Deanne Schultz, Rich Stillwell, Helen Stillwell, Nancy Campbell, Connie Cavaretto, Phil Cavaretto, Mark Meyer (In front) Tiffany Meyer

THIRD PLACE TEAM (L to R): Ralph Tebbe, Bruce Renison, Ken Cordum, Pete Stromsland, Tracy Renison, Susan Stromsland, Christy Blank, John Blank, Shelly Cordum, Terry Cordum

FIVE VOLUNTEER RUNNERS FROM GILLESPIE MIDDLE SCHOOL (L to R): Trenton Gill, Preston Kaylor, Anthony Ribes, Cameron Hailstone, and C.J. Frensko

$5,000 CASH PRIZE IN THE PARTNERSHIP’S SECOND ANNUAL GRAND RAFFLE

February 6, 2017 - Gillespie, Illinois

A $5,000 cash prize will be awarded to the winner of the second annual The Partnership for Educational Excellence Grand Drawing. 

Ticket sales – limited to 500 – were kicked off at The Partnership’s “For the Love of Education” trivia night on Saturday 4 February. An early bird drawing for two smaller cash prizes of $100 each were awarded at the trivia night to Patty Shrader of Staunton and Connie Wenzel of Benld. Connie’s daughter Brooke Buhs accepted the money on her behalf.

Interest has been brisk since the kickoff with more than 20% already sold. Ticket sales will continue until all 500 are sold or until Palm Sunday, 9 April 2017. Last year, Elaine Gray of Gillespie won the $5,000 prize and donated $2,000 back to The Partnership

All proceeds of the raffle will go to post-secondary academic tuition scholarships. Since its founding in 1992, The Partnership (a 501(c)3, IRS-chartered education foundation) has awarded scholarships worth $192,500 to 370 graduates of Gillespie High School.

Ticket prices are $20. Tickets are for sale at Hicks Maytag at 118 South Macoupin in Gillespie. Or contact one of the following Partnership directors: John Fassero, Jr.; Donna Prevedell; Rose Marie Tebbe; Judy Cordum; Gail Cavallo; Rosie Emmenderfer; Nanci Grandone; Katie Ronald; Carole Scheller; Don Throne; Julie Zirkelbach. 

Brooke Buhs accepting for Connie Wenzel

Patty Shrader

WINNER OF PARTNERSHIP RAFFLE GIVES BACK!

March 24, 2016 - Gillespie IL – Elaine Gray of Gillespie is the winner of the single $5,000 prize in The Partnership for Educational Excellence’s first Grand Raffle.

Elaine, who bought her winning ticket at Hicks Maytag Home Appliance Center in Gillespie, and her husband Kevin immediately donated $2,000 back to The Partnership.

The Gray family is very familiar with the 501(c)3 education foundation. Their son Dane, who now works in finance in St. Louis, and their twin daughters Molly and Ellen, who are students at Maryville University in St. Louis, have each been awarded a Partnership tuition scholarship.

The Grays have also been involved in Community Unit School District 7 (CUSD7) schools. Elaine volunteered in classrooms for many years; Kevin, a local businessman, has been involved with both the boys’ and girls’ basketball programs at Gillespie High School (GHS), focusing on the girls’ program recently. In addition, Kevin is a former director of The Partnership.

"Kevin and I recognize all the hard work The Partnership puts in to helping CUSD7,” says Elaine. “It is an honor to donate to The Partnership which does such a great job in helping all the children in our school district."

The Grand Raffle was kicked off at The Partnership’s annual “For the Love of Education” trivia night on 13 February. Only 400 tickets, each costing $20, were sold by directors as well as at Hicks Maytag in Gillespie and Fireside Eye Care in Benld.

“We are so thankful to Elaine for donating back $2,000 of her winnings!,” says John Fassero, Jr., president of The Partnership. “The Gray’s generosity is remarkable. Every dollar from raffle ticket sales and from their gift will go directly into the hands of CUSD7 students in the form of classroom mini-grants. Their gift plus our income from our annual trivia event total $5,000. Warm thanks to every trivia player, raffle purchaser, and especially to the Kevin and Elaine.”

The winning ticket was drawn on Sunday 20 March by CUSD7 Superintendent Joe Tieman at the annual PTO spaghetti dinner at the Ben-Gil Elementary School.

The Partnership, founded in 1992, offers classroom mini-grants to teacher applicants for curriculum materials. In addition, scholarships are offered to GHS graduates to cover tuition and fees in post-secondary institutions, including technical, community, and four-year colleges and universities. 

2016 Partnership Scholars

May 22, 2016 -  Thanks to the generosity of past and present “partners”, The Partnership for Educational Excellence was able to increase its academic tuition scholarships to $1,000 this year.

The 14 Gillespie High School (GHS) seniors receiving the awards this year were given $500 each from named memorial scholarships; The Partnership matched those gifts with $500 from general funds. The awards were presented by Partnership president John Fassero, Jr., and director and first president Nanci Grandone during commencement ceremonies on Sunday, May 22, 2016.

“Thanks to the loyalty and generosity of hundreds of supporters, we can recognize these 14 excellent students and give them a little extra help furthering their educations,” says Fassero. “This year’s life essays, some outstanding, show thoughtful assessments of their own strengths and weaknesses, as well as their career goals. Their letters of recommendation reveal born leaders who have earned the respect of the adults in their lives. They embody our policy of rewarding every ability level for hard work, involvement in school and community activities, and proven ability to set goals. We are proud of the small role we may play in their future successes” says Fassero, a founding director as well as current president.

“Our scholarships are not large, because we want to recognize the greatest number of students,” says Fassero. “And parents over the years have told us that the $500 tuition payment does help their students during first semester." The funds are paid directly to the colleges.

This year a total of $14,000 was awarded. To date the Partnership has awarded $192,500 in tuition scholarships to 370 graduates of Gillespie High School.

In addition, The Partnership again administered two $100 cash awards from the estate of Evaline Boehmke for musicianship in band and chorus.
This year’s awards include:
THE DR. D. ROSS AND MRS. ROSEMARY BILLITER SCHOLARSHIP. Awarded for the first time, this scholarship was instituted by the Billiters to thank the many area residents who supported Dr. Billiter’s practice as general surgeon at St. Francis Hospital for many years. The award goes to:

Madison Buckner, daughter of Carrie and Brad Buckner of Gillespie, who will attend Lewis and Clark Community College to study dental hygiene.

CARROLL-KEUPPER SCHOLARSHIP established by the late Rosemary Keupper Valle and her sister Lillian Keupper in honor of their families who have been involved in medicine, world health, and banking/finance. Their grandfather Anthony Carroll, a member of the Gillespie school board, initiated strong family support for the local school system and its students.

Blake Hayes, son of Mike and Heather Hayes of Gillespie, will attend Southern IllinoisUniversity at Edwardsville, to study pre-medicine.

CAROL ENRICO DE LUCCA MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIPS FOR TOP GIRL GRADUATES established by family and friends in memory of this Benld native who was a respected educator and counselor. The daughter of Rose Enrico, Carol established a consulting business to help students pursue their goals through higher education. Her daughters Allison and Ashley live in California.

Regan Goldasich, daughter of Mark and Amy Goldasich of Gillespie, will attend Lewis and Clark Community College to study accounting.

ANDREW EASTON, SR. MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP by friends and a family filled with teachers. A life- long educator and football coach, he was a devoted mentor to scores of youngsters. "He’d have loved helping the young get their educations," say wife Florence and children.

Lynsey Gibson, daughter of Tina and Jeff Gibson of Gillespie, will attend Southern Illinois University at Edwardsville to study accounting and business.

JOSEPH and EILEEN LIBBRA MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP by family and friends. Married for 48 years, they were hard working grain and livestock farmers and dedicated to their four children, Mary, Joe, Trish, and Carol, and their nine grandchildren.

Evan Price, son of Amy and Chuck Price of Gillespie, will attend Illinois College in Jacksonville to major in physical therapy.

JOHN and MARK MADDEN MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP by family to lovingly honor this father and son. Both played Miners football, graduated from GHS and St. Louis University Law School. John returned to serve the community he loved in private practice, as a county public defender, and for 43 years as Gillespie City Attorney. He died at age 78 on 10 October 2009. His son Mark lived half as long, dying suddenly at the age of 39 on 11 October 2005. He was a trial attorney with Moser and Marshalak in St. Louis.

Colin Tieman, son of Joe and Marti Tieman of Gillespie, will attend the University of Illinois at Champaign-Urbana to study business and pre-law.

ROBERT M. PREVEDELL MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP by family and friends. Robert lived 94 years as a farmer near Eagarville. Beloved by all for his dignity, good nature, integrity, and generosity of spirit, he was a prolific woodworker; veteran house mover; self-taught musician; talented gardener; and a charming storyteller with a razor sharp memory. He was proud of and devoted to his late wife Catherine, his four children (Bob, Toni, Pat, and Pam), seven grandchildren, and nine great-grandchildren.

Stephen DeMartini, son of Patricia DeMartini and Jon Tesio, will attend Millikin University in Decatur, Illinois, to major in pre-medicine.

RICK RICHARDS MEMORIAL AG SCHOLARSHIP by family. This GHS graduate and local farmer is remembered fondly for his kindness and generosity to his family – wife Barb and daughter Lisa – and many fond friends.

Emily Harszy, daughter of Joseph and Diana Harszy of Gillespie, will attend the University of Central Florida in Orlando to major in archaeology and horticulture.

TAMMY ROSENTRETER MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP by family and friends. A U.S. Air Force veteran, she was active in her church and a dedicated teacher. She did it all through her valiant battle against cancer, inspiring Team Tammy fund raisers while maintaining her top priority: her family - husband Jerry and children Josh, Tateum and Tess.

Elijah Fox, son of Dan and Michelle Fox of Gillespie, will attend Illinois College in Jacksonville to major in education.

TEBBE FAMILY FOUNDATION SCHOLARSHIP for students of computer science and engineering plus many classroom mini-grants have been funded by GHS graduate Mark Tebbe, Class of 1979, founder of Lante Corporation, and his parents Ralph and Rose Marie Tebbe through their family foundation. Rose is Partnership director.

Andrew Cline, son of Teresa and Joe Cline of Gillespie, will attend Southern Illinois University at Edwardsville to major in computer engineering.

MARJORIE & MATT TURCOL MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP by family and friends. Matt and Marge’s great joy was their family. Marge is remembered by all for her generous and caring ways. Matt was mayor of Benld and president of the CUSD7 school board. Their daughter Susan is a frequent mini- grant recipient and their grandsons are Partnership scholars.

Abby Eccles, daughter of Joe Eccles of Gillespie, will attend Culver-Stockton College in Canton, Missouri, to major in pediatric physical therapy.

UMWA Local 1613 SCHOLARSHIP represents coal miners, health care workers, truck drivers, manufacturing employees and public employees in our communities. The union fights for safe workplaces, good wages and benefits, and fair representation in workplaces.

Bailey Jarman, daughter of Troy and Stacy Jarman of Benld, will attend Lewis and Clark Community College to study dental hygiene.

MICHAEL VALENTI MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP by friends and family is awarded in loving memory of this 1994 GHS graduate who lost his life in 1999 in a tragic accident. Michael had completed an associate’s degree at Lewis and Clark Community College and was continuing his education at Southern Illinois University at Edwardsville.

Kirsten Sherman, daughter of Todd and Leslie Sherman of Gillespie, will attend Western Illinois University in Macomb to study marketing.

VETERANS OF FOREIGN WARS AUXILIARY 4547 SCHOLARSHIP.

Rachael Emmenderfer, daughter of Ray and Rosie Emmenderfer of Eagarville, will attend Lewis and Clark Community College to study occupational therapy.

EVALINE BOEHMKE MUSICIANSHIP AWARDS: Evaline (Mrs. Robert) Boehmke, was an ardent supporter of music in CUSD7. She left a bequest for $100 cash awards for students to be selected by the music faculty of Gillespie High School for outstanding musicianship in GHS band and chorus. This year the Band winner is Olivia Friese and the Chorus winner is Kobe Willis.

GRAND RAFFLE - WIN $5,000 WHILE BENEFITTING STUDENTS!

A single prize of $5,000 will be awarded on Palm Sunday to the winner of a “Grand Raffle” being held by The Partnership for Educational Excellence.

Only 400 tickets worth $20 each will be sold between now and Palm Sunday, 20 March 2016. 

With these excellent odds, tickets are going fast.  You can buy them at Hicks Maytag Appliance Center at 118 South Macoupin Street in Gillespie or at Fireside Eye Care at 600 South 8th/Route 138 in Benld.

Or you can contact any director of The Partnership: Brandi Bunn, Judy Cordum, Patty DeMartini, John Fassero, Nanci Grandone, Shawna Heddinghaus, Nikki Katich, Donna Prevedell, Katie Ronald, Rose Marie Tebbe, or Don Throne.

Winner need not be present to win.  All funds will be used within CUSD7 to enhance educational opportunities for our youngsters.  The Partnership is a 501c3 not-for-profit educational foundation that offers classroom mini-grants and tuition scholarships in Community Unit School District 7 in Macoupin County.

2015 Partnership Scholars

May 17, 2015- Gillespie, Illinois - Twenty-three percent of Gillespie High School (GHS) seniors receiving diplomas this year were awarded $500 tuition scholarships from The Partnership for Educational Excellence during commencement ceremonies on Sunday, May 17, 2015. The awards were presented by Partnership president John Fassero, Jr., and director Brandi Bunn.

"Thanks to the loyalty and generosity of hundreds of supporters, only a few of which we can name here, we can recognize these 16 excellent students and give them a little help furthering their educations," says Fassero. "This year in particular students from the valedictorian to some in the lowest quarter of the class earned our awards. Their letters of recommendation reveal born leaders with clear goals. Their life essays show thoughtful assessments of their own strengths and weaknesses. They perfectly embody our policy of rewarding every ability level for hard work, involvement in school and community activities, and proven ability to set goals. We are confident of their future success" says a founding director as well as president, "and proud of the small role we may play in it.

"Our scholarships are not large, because we want to recognize the greatest number of students," says Fassero. "And parents over the years have told us that the $500 tuition payment does help their students during first semester." The funds are paid directly to the colleges.

This year a total of $8,000 was awarded. To date the Partnership has awarded $178,500 in tuition scholarships to 356 graduates of Gillespie High School.

In addition, The Partnership again administered two $100 cash awards from the estate of Evaline Boehmke for musicianship in band and chorus.

This year’s awards include:

THE DR. D. ROSS AND MRS. ROSEMARY BILLITER SCHOLARSHIP. Awarded for the first time, this scholarship was instituted by the Billiters to thank the many area residents who supported Dr. Billiter’s practice as general surgeon at St. Francis Hospital for many years. The award goes to:

Daniel Pinkerton, II, son of Daniel and Carol Pinkerton of Benld, will attend Lewis and Clark Community College in Godfrey to major in automotive technology.

EMIL BORGINI MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP by an anonymous donor. He taught in Benld, taught and coached at GHS, where he was also principal for 20 years. Borgini retired as CUSD#7 superintendent.

Emily Reid, daughter of Gary and Amy Reid of Gillespie, will attend St. Louis University to major in pre-med or education.

CARROLL-KEUPPER SCHOLARSHIP established by the late Rosemary Keupper Valle and her sister Lillian Keupper in honor of their families who have been involved in medicine, world health, and banking/finance. Their grandfather Anthony Carroll, a member of the Gillespie school board, initiated strong family support for the local school system and its students.

Gary Ross, son of Anne Marie Bauer Ross and Jay Ross of Gillespie, will attend St. Louis University and major in health sciences.

ELINOR DAVIES NURSING SCHOLARSHIP by friends and family in honor of Elinor who served many decades as school nurse in CUSD#7.

Karlie Libbra, daughter of Jennifer Valenti of Gillespie, will attend Southern Illinois University at Edwardsville to major in pediatric nursing.

CAROL ENRICO DE LUCCA MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIPS FOR TOP GIRL GRADUATES established by family and friends in memory of this Benld native who was a respected educator and counselor. The daughter of Rose Enrico, Carol established a consulting business to help students pursue their goals through higher education. Her daughters Allison and Ashley live in California.

Nichole Miller, daughter of Donald and Ann Miller of rural Carlinville, will attend Western Illinois University at Macomb and major in agricultural science.

DANNY GRIFFEL MEMORIAL AGRICULTURE SCHOLARSHIP by family and friends. Danny, a Korean Conflict veteran, was honored in 2009 for continuous ownership and operation of the family farm since 1856. He was active in a number of civic, benevolent, and recreational organizations. His son David serves on the CUSD7 school board; his daughter Donna Easton is a school nurse in CUSD7. Four of his grandchildren are past Partnership scholars.

Josh Friese, son of Pastor Steve and Edie Friese of Gillespie, will attend Eastern Illinois University at Charleston to major in accounting.

JULIA KRAVANYA MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP by family and friends. Born in Scotland, she married Anton J. Kravanya in1942 in Gillespie. They raised two children, Fran now Mrs. Mike Slapak of South Carolina, and Tony, who operates Kravanya Funeral Homes with his wife Marilyn, Julia’s grandson Anthony and granddaughter Lyn in Gillespie, Benld, and Bunker Hill. Another grandson Nicholas is a dentist in Carlinville.

Shelsie Timmermeier, daughter of Jeffrey and Tracy Timmermeier of rural Litchfield, will attend Blackburn University in Carlinville to major in medical laboratory technology.

JOHN and MARK MADDEN MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP by family to lovingly honor this father and son. Both played Miners football, graduated from GHS and St. Louis University Law School. John returned to serve the community he loved in private practice, as a county public defender, and for 43 years as Gillespie City Attorney. He died at age 78 on 10 October 2009. His son Mark lived half as long, dying suddenly at the age of 39 on 11 October 2005. He was a trial attorney with Moser and Marshalak in St. Louis.

Derick Engelke, son of Brian and Lisa Engelke of Gillespie, will attend Lindenwood College in St. Louis to major in business.

LANA ODORIZZI MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP by Anonymous, friends, and family. Mrs. O, as most of her students called her, was a beloved elementary school P.E. teacher and middle- and high school volleyball coach for 13 years in CUSD7. She also coached softball, track, soccer, Little League, gymnastics and taught fitness and swimming to hundreds of local children.

Brady Anderson, son of Robert and Annie Anderson of Gillespie, will attend Northwest Missouri State University in Maryville to major in sports medicine.

RYAN ROACH MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP by family and friends. Ryan, a 2005 GHS graduate, lost his life in a tragic accident in 2013. A talented musician as well as an EMT, he was widely known locally as "DJ 2 Time". He had just signed with a professional DJ company, but his passion was playing with Harvest Ministry where he’s remembered as "loving to lead and willing to serve."

Kaitlin Henrichs, daughter of Eric and Gina Henrichs of Dorchester, will attend Millikin University in Decatur, Illinois, to major in music performance.

JAMES ROSENTRETER MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP by his family. "Our dad spent his life helping other people pursue educational and financial goals. It’s fitting that once again Dad is sharing his dream of a young person’s success."

Jacob Kirkwood, son of Jeff and Tracie Kirkwood of Dorchester, will attend Faith Baptist Bible College in Ankeny, Iowa, to major in the ministry.

SCHMIDT BARTON FAMILY FUND SCHOLARSHIP William Schmidt, Sr., and his wife Florence raised five children in Gillespie. He worked in a Gillespie bank for 20 years before joining the Columbia Quarry Company in 1932. He remained active with the firm until his death in 1987. His son John Schmidt of Arizona is president of the Schmidt Foundation. The Schmidt’s, and subsequently his sister Lucille’s foundations, have chosen The Partnership to carry out their local investment in our children through many generous gifts over 22 years.

Abigail Pollard, daughter of Ron and Lorette Pollard of Gillespie, will attend Southern Illinois University at Edwardsville to major in mass communications and television.

TRAVIS SEMPLOWSKI MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP in loving memory by family and friends. Travis, a graduate of GHS, was a member of Future Farmers of America. He was working as an automotive specialist at WalMart in Litchfield when he died tragically on 28 July 2009 at the age of 21.

Ellie Halpin, daughter of Bill and Tammy Halpin of Gillespie, will attend Lewis and Clark Community College to major in architectural technology.

UMWA Local 1613 SCHOLARSHIP represents coal miners, health care workers, truck drivers, manufacturing employees and public employees in our communities. The union fights for safe workplaces, good wages and benefits, and fair representation in workplaces.

Jared Young, son of Kim Anne Young of Gillespie, will attend Lewis and Clark Community College. He is undecided about his major.

MICHAEL VALENTI MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP by friends and family is awarded in loving memory of this 1994 GHS graduate who lost his life in 1999 in a tragic accident. Michael had completed an associate’s degree at Lewis and Clark Community College and was continuing his education at Southern Illinois University at Edwardsville.

Quentin Zenner, son of Nicole Zenner of Gillespie, will attend Knox College in Galesburg, Illinois, to major in psychology and pre-law.

LOIS ZANTER MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP by friends and family. Lois was an elementary school teacher and librarian in CUSD7 for 29 years. Devoted to education herself, she was proud that her daughter Gail Niehaus, grandchildren Casey Niehaus and Kara Strode are also dedicated teachers. Gail and Casey are past classroom mini-grant recipients.

Jordan Rosentreter, daughter of Rodney and Jill Rosentreter of Gillespie, will attend Illinois State University in Normal to major in education.

EVALINE BOEHMKE MUSICIANSHIP AWARDS: Evaline (Mrs. Robert) Boehmke, was an ardent supporter of music in CUSD7. She left a bequest for $100 cash awards for students to be selected by the music faculty of Gillespie High School for outstanding musicianship in GHS band and chorus. This year the Band and Chorus winners are the same person:  Kaitlin Henrichs.

The Gratitude Flows Both Ways

Directors of The Partnership met with CUSD7 Superintendent Joe Tieman to view and express their thanks for a series of banners he commissioned for installation in all three schools.  Since its founding in 1992, The Partnership has given $517,152.60 in donated dollars to the district's children.  Acknowledging the impact of these gifts -- in the form of classroom mini-grants -- Tieman volunteered to make The Partnership's generosity more widely known.  The Partnership is grateful for this show of generosity which keeps its mission before the children and parents who benefit most and who are among our strongest supporters.  On hand were (from left to right) Partnership directors Patty DeMartini, Don Throne, Judy Cordum (secretary), John Fassero, Jr. (president), Superintendent Tieman, Carole Scheller, Rose Tebbe, and Donna Prevedell.

Partnership Second Semester 2014-2015 Classroom Mini-Grants

March 5, 2015 - Gillespie, Illinois - The Partnership for Educational Excellence has once again invested in the school children of Community Unit School District 7 (CUSD7) with classroom mini-grants.

During second semester of the 2014-2015 school year, this IRS-chartered 501(c)(3), not-for-profit education foundation awarded $23,442.31 to all three schools in CUSD7.

All Ben-Gil recipients, Superintendent Joe Tieman, and several Partnership directors were on hand for the check presentation by president John Fassero, Jr., to Principal Angela Turcol.

This total is distributed to:

Ben-Gil Elementary School – 35 teachers (100% of all eligible faculty who are not retiring this academic year) received $16,501.27. Essentially every classroom from Pre-Kindergarten through fifth grade has received up to $500 for supplemental curricular materials. All subject areas are included, including math, science, social studies, speech, reading, writing, and physical education.

Gillespie Middle School – 11 teachers (the majority of eligible faculty) received $4,642.57. Again, virtually every eligible classroom from sixth through eighth grade received an award. History, math, life science, earth science, literature, and physical education were all enhanced in this round of mini-grants.

Gillespie High School – 6 of the 8 applicants were awarded funds, directing extra resources to classroom units on math, history, biology, health, fitness, and library research. The total high school award was $2,299.47.

These awards are made possible by the generosity of alumni and local residents. In particular, the W. E. Schmidt Charitable Foundation and the Lon and Lucille Schmidt Barton, which recently merged to become the Schmidt and Barton Family Foundation, have been especially generous. These families have emphasized their preference that the funds stay in the community and reach as many children as possible through long-lived, hands-on projects: mini-grants.

Teachers may apply each semester for awards of up to $500 for supplementary curricular materials that will enhance their students’ learning. Projects which encourage critical thinking, creativity, problem solving, and life skills will receive a high priority. Projects which involve team teaching and/or interdisciplinary activities are encouraged.

All money is deposited directly with the schools and must be used only for the designated purpose within the 2014-2015 academic year. All unexpended money must be returned to The Partnership at the end of the academic year.

To maintain eligibility for future awards, teachers must submit receipts for covered materials and written evaluations. Mini-grants cannot be given for textbooks, field trips, computer hardware, equipment, supplies, or for expenses for outside speakers.

“For the Love of Education” 2015 Trivia Contest A Great Success

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February 2, 2015 - Gillespie, Illinois - “For the Love of Education” Trivia Night raised more than $8,000 for the school children of Community Unit School District #7 (CUSD#7) on Saturday night. “One hundred percent of the funds will be devoted to classroom mini-grants,” said John Fassero, Jr., president of The Partnership for Educational Excellence, which hosted the evening.

The Partnerships is a 501c3, IRS-chartered not-for-profit education foundation. “The ‘For the Love of Education’ trivia night is our one-and-only fund raiser,” said Fassero, “so we are especially gratified at the great response we once again received. The money raised is the equivalent of 16 future classroom mini-grants. So this generosity is very significant in expanding educational opportunities for our school children.”

Twenty-seveb teams of ten players, including several teams of teachers, played. All three CUSD#7 principals, Lori Emmons (high school), Jill Rosentreter (middle school), and Angela Turcol (elementary school) played. The Gillespie Civic Center was filled with chatter and cheers as teams competed.

The winning team with 72 points was Jan Dona’s; they donated back $120 of their $150 prize money. The second place team, captained by Louis Weiss from Mulberry Grove won $100. The third place Drew Ford team donated back their $50 prize money.

In addition, more than 120 local and regional businesses and individuals donated cash as well as desirable items and valuable services and gift certificates for a silent auction, which netted more than $3,200. Highlights included the donation of a custom- framed, limited edition print on canvas by local artist Roger DeWitt, and an iPod Nano and an iPod Shuffle donated by an anonymous benefactor.

The Partnership in the past 22 years has donated more than $700,000 to enhance the educations of all students in accredited schools in CUSD#7. Its motto is: “Only on the foundation of education can our children build useful lives and a stable society.” You can learn more and donate at www.thepartnership7.org (please note our new e-mail address!) and at P.O. Box 125, Gillespie IL 62033.

Donors to the 2014 event were:

• Accents Florists and Gift Shop
• Ageless
• Anonymous
• Ariston
• Auto Zone
• Avon - Alice Tieman
• Baima Distributing
• Bates Motor Co.
• Dr. Steven Boente and Dr. Nicolas Kravanya
• Jan Brett - Author
• Brooke Buhs
• Casey’s General Store - Benld
• Century 21 - Deb Rossetto
• Cheesecake Factory
• Ken and Judy Cordum
• Country Financial - Tina Olroyd
• Cracker Barrel Old Country Store
• The Croatian Club
• The Cubby Hole
• CUSD7
• D&A Corvette
• Dairy Queen - Gillespie
• Daley-Bruckert Chevrolet - Staunton
• Dee Dee’s Flower Shop
• Roger DeWitt - Painted Prairie
• Kathi Durbin Salon
• Drummond Law Office LLC
• Village of Eagarville
• Enertech - Mike Rossetto
• Farmers Insurance - Adam Tallman
• John and Linda Fassero
• Fema’s
• Firehouse Salon
• Fireside Eye Care - Shawna Heddinghaus
• First National Bank of Benld
• Fleming Tawfall & Co. PC
• Garella Pest Services
• Gateway Grizzlies
• Gazda Insurance Agency Inc.
• Get Nailed Salon - Wendy Rolando
• Goodman Agency Inc.
• Nanci and Bill Grandone
• Gina Gucciardo CPA
• Heritage Health
• Hicks Maytag Home Appliance Center
• Hidden Valley Ski Resorts
• JoDanni’s Amore
• Kravanya Families
• La Bella Fiori - Abby Dillon
• Litchfield Park District
• Litchfield Sports Inc.
• Macoupin Family Practice - Dr. Bruce Weber and Dr. Chris Poirot
• The Magic House
• Magnuson Grand Hotel
• Mayfield-Mullins Landscaping
• McDonald’s - Litchfield
• McKay Auto Parts/NAPA
• Mi Casita Mexican Restaurant
• Michelle’s Pharmacy
• Miner’s Family Restaurant
• MotoMart
• Village of Mt. Clare
• My Sister’s Closet
• Neuhaus Heating and A/C Inc.
• O’Reilly Auto Parts
• Oriental Trading Co. Inc.
• Dean and Cate Plovich
• Donna and Bob Prevedell
• Quality Flooring - Andy Houser
• Quality Motors - Larry Norville
• Randy’s Market - The Troutwines
• Reid’s Service Heating and Cooling
• Republic Recycling and Waste Services
• Rocco’s Pizza
• Roma’s Pizza
• Scentsy - Jamie Johnson
• Sarah Schweppe - Massage
• Scheels
• Shell Food Mart - Gillespie
• Smiles Plus - Dr. Roy Northcutt
• The Springfield Municipal Opera
• St. Louis Cardinals
• Stan’s Barber Shop
• Star Nails - Litchfield
• Subway - Gillespie
• Sullivan’s Drug Store - Gillespie
• Superwash Car Wash - Gillespie
• Tastefully Simple - Carol Miller
• Rose Marie and Ralph Tebbe
• TJs
• Toni’s Family Restaurant
• Tropical Sno - The Waymans
• Dave Tucker
• Turney Heating & Cooling
• United Community Bank
• Verticchio & Verticchio Attorneys at Law
• VFW Post #4547
• Victory Lane Ford
• Westside Cinema
• Wildcat Paintball Park, Inc.
• The Village of Wilsonville
• Wimanoma’s Pride - Marsha Bauer

... AND GENEROUS WINNERS, First Place Team Dona, Third Place Team Drew Ford, and to 50/50 winner Paul Madden, who donated back most or all of their winnings!

... AND OUR STUDENT VOLUNTEERS: Levi and Luke Hatlee, Stephen DeMartini, Vincent Tesio, Michael Ross, Jake Kirkwood, Olivia Friese, Ella and Lily Heddinghaus!

... AND ALL THREE CUSD7 PRINCIPALS - Lori Emmons, Jill Rosentreter, and Angela Turcol – who played as did MANY TEACHERS from Ben-Gil Elementary School, Gillespie Middle School, and Gillespie High School.

....THANKS from The Partnership’s Board of Directors

John Fassero, Jr., President; Shawna Heddinghaus,Vice President; Judy Cordum, Secretary; Nikki Katich, Treasurer; Brandi Bunn; Patty DeMartini; Nanci Grandone, Founder; Scott Mock; Donna Prevedell; Katie Ronald; Carole Scheller; Rose Marie Tebbe; Don Throne 

– Like us on Facebook
– Drop a line to: P.O. Box 125
Gillespie IL 62033 

Billiters Establish CUSD # 7 Scholarship Through The Partnership

PRESS RELEASE

September 22, 2014 - Gillespie, Illinois - Dr. D. Ross and Mrs. Rosemary Billiter have presented a gift of $25,000 to The Partnership for Educational Excellence to be used for scholarships.

“We are grateful to the people of this area who have supported my medical practice,” says Dr. Billiter, who retired recently after nearly 50 years as a general surgeon at St. Francis Hospital in Litchfield. “This gift is an acknowledgment of our appreciation and an investment in the future of our area.”

The Billiters have chosen The Partnership, a not-for-profit, 501c3 education foundation in Community Unit School District #7 (CUSD#7) to administer their gift.

The Billiters say that after they read of the 2013 record award of 26 Partnership scholarships, they contacted President John Fassero, Jr. The combination of honoring and profiling donors as well as scholarship recipients appealed to them. “The Partnership has proven itself to be a good steward of donor’s funds for more than 20 years,” says Dr. Billiter. “We also hope that this gift will encourage others who are doing estate planning to include The Partnership and other academic programs in their plans.”

“I want to thank Dr. and Mrs. Billiter for their generosity and for their trust in The Partnership,” says Fassero, a founding member and second-time president. “We admire their commitment to the area’s children, and we will do our best to put their investment to work.”

The funds will be used to generate an annual $500 academic scholarship for a graduating Gillespie High School senior. In the past, The Partnership has awarded scholarships to up to 30 percent of the students in each graduating class. Based on recommendations and stated career goals, the scholarships have been awarded to students with a wide range of class ranks and GPAs (grade point averages).

The Partnership’s motto is: “Only on the foundation of education can our children build useful lives and a stable society.” For more information or to donate, please contact The Partnership at www.thepartnershipcusd7.org or P.O. Box 125, Gillespie IL 62033.