Thank you for supporting the Kelli Joy O’Laughlin Memorial Scholarship.
We are incredibly grateful for your time and willingness to advocate for a student’s future. Your recommendation is a vital part of our selection process; it offers us a window into the applicant’s character, compassion, and leadership potential that grades alone cannot show.
About the Scholarship
The Kelli Joy O’Laughlin Memorial Scholarship honors the memory of Kelli Joy, a vibrant Lyons Township High School freshman whose life was tragically taken in 2011. Through the Class of 2025, the Foundation has proudly awarded 112 scholarships totaling $883,100 to Illinois high school seniors who reflect Kelli’s values. We are excited to continue this legacy with the Class of 2026.
What We Are Looking For
As you write your letter, please keep in mind the core of our mission:
“We are looking for students who carry forward the spirit Kelli lived by—kindness, empathy, and courage. Your insights help us identify young people who not only excel academically but who will grow into compassionate leaders and bring joy to their communities.”
Important Deadlines & Logistics
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Deadline: Monday, February 16, 2026, at 10:00 PM.
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Submission Method: Recommendations must be submitted exclusively via our online form. Please click the link at the bottom of this page to access it.
Submission Tips
To ensure your recommendation is processed smoothly, please review the following:
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Student Details: Please have the student’s full name and email address (exactly as used on their application) ready. This ensures we can accurately match your letter to their file.
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Confidentiality: To encourage open and honest feedback, the content of your recommendation will remain strictly confidential. The student will receive an automated notification that a letter has been submitted on their behalf, but they will not have access to view the letter itself.
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Edits & Corrections: Please note that submissions are final and cannot be edited once sent. If you realize you’ve made an error after clicking submit, simply complete a new form for the student. We will always use the most recent submission.
Thank you for helping us continue Kelli’s legacy by empowering deserving students to achieve their dreams.
