Now through the end of December, gifts supporting NPRE scholarship funds, including the NPRE Visionary Scholarship Fund, will be matched dollar-for-dollar by the Grainger Foundation challenge. Scholarships make a definite difference for students like NPRE sophomore Michelle McCord, a Georgia native who came to Illinois because "it is one of the best schools for particle physics and energy."
Michelle was awarded a George H. Miley-LENR Endowed Undergraduate Scholarship, which qualifies for the Grainger Match. "Thanks to this scholarship, now I can partcipate in on-campus research that interests me instead of focusing on a paycheck," Michelle said.
Michelle is a member of the varsity swimming and diving team, and she is responsible for representing the University both in and out of the pool. She has taken on several different roles in the Women in Engineering organization. As an orientation mentor, she helps freshmen transition to college and encourages them to stay in engineering disciplines. Additionally, as an ambassador, she represents the organization to prospective students and their families. Lastly, as an intern, she helps plan outreach events.
Michelle is thankful to be a 2018-19 recipient of the Miley Scholarship. Its generous financial support gives her opportunities to be involved and make the most out of college instead of worrying about affording the experience.