SIU textbook scholarships are leg up for many students

In 2008 the SIU Alumni Association started the annual Textbook Program which provides free textbooks to select SIU students to help support their education.

The Alumni Association's National Board of Directors provided funds to begin this program as a form of financial aid and has continued the program for the past 12 years. This year the Alumni Association provided roughly $30,000.

The awards are distributed to students who demonstrate a financial need and also maintain a GPA of at least 3.0.

Jeff Gleim, executive director of the Alumni Association said the success of the Textbook Scholarship Program is due to the alumni's annual dues.

"Members make a difference," he said. "This support can have a direct impact on a student's life."

On Jan. 13 the student-recipients of this year's textbooks received their awards.

Kamryn Wingerter, daughter of Terri-Beth and Larry Wingerter of Chester, was one of 36 students who got an award. She is a freshman at SIU, studying Mortuary Science and Funeral Service.

"I am so excited to be a textbook scholarship award recipient this year," Kamryn said. "I am thankful to the SIU Alumni Association for selecting me. This award has helped me financially and encourages me to continue studying hard to prepare for my future."

Wingerter graduated from Chester High School in May 2019. While there she was actively involved with the CHS Student Council, a Yellow Jacket cheerleader, a member of the Summit Chapter of the National Honor Society, on the track team, and in S.A.D.D., Spanish Club, spring plays and musicals.

Michelle Rust, a 2005 graduate of Chester High School and an SIU grad, works with the Alumni Association as the Director of College and Student Relations.

"I am super proud of Kamryn, not only for stepping up as President and Chair of Leadership Development with the Student Alumni Council, but also for maintaining high honors and for being awarded the 2020 Textbook Scholarship," Rust said. "She is truly embracing her college experience here at SIU-C."