Southern Illinois University Carbondale (SIUC) proudly announces the selection of 37 outstanding high school seniors for the prestigious Chancellor’s Scholarship, a testament to their remarkable academic achievements. Among these remarkable scholars, 16 come from the Southern Illinois region, showcasing the local talent and dedication to excellence.

The Chancellor’s Scholarship is more than just a financial reward; it symbolizes a commitment to nurturing brilliance and fostering a culture of academic excellence at SIUC. This esteemed scholarship covers tuition, mandatory fees, on-campus housing, and meals for a duration of four years, providing recipients with unmatched opportunities to excel both inside and outside the classroom.

In a heartwarming display of recognition, Chancellor Austin A. Lane, alongside other esteemed university officials, personally visited the schools of these exceptional students to present them with this life-changing scholarship. Their surprise visits not only highlighted the significance of this achievement but also demonstrated the university’s dedication to celebrating and supporting the brightest minds in the region.

Among the recipients are Piper Price (12) and Elizabeth “Libby” Brandon (12), two exemplary individuals whose commitment to academic excellence has earned them this prestigious accolade. As representatives of their high school and the Southern Illinois community, Piper and Libby exemplify the values of hard work, determination, and intellectual curiosity that define the Chancellor’s Scholarship recipients.

Reflecting on her selection, Libby expressed overwhelming excitement and gratitude upon learning she had been awarded the Chancellor scholarship. “I was so excited when I found out that I had received the Chancellor scholarship! Getting the Chancellor scholarship had been a long-term goal for me since my freshman year,” she shared. “I was so relieved and thankful when I finally accomplished that goal.”

Libby emphasized the significance of the scholarship, stating, “It’s amazing that SIU offers these scholarships; it means that they don’t want hard work and dedication to go unnoticed.” She expressed her plans to continue her dedication to academic success in college, stating, “I plan on continuing to work hard in college and dedicate my time to studying and making good grades.”

Piper, on the other hand, remarked, “I was very surprised but super proud of myself when I learned I had been awarded the Chancellor scholarship.” She further shared her inspiration for applying, stating, “I was inspired to apply because it was a chance to get a good education at a local school for free.”

Both Libby and Piper emphasized their alignment with SIUC’s values, with Piper stating, “I align with these values because I am a hardworking, dedicated, and involved student. I plan to focus on my studies more in college while continuing to be involved.” 

Offering advice to other students, Piper advised, “I would say never give up and be confident in yourself and your accomplishments.”

As they prepare to embark on their academic journey at SIUC, Piper, Libby, and their fellow recipients are poised to make significant contributions to their fields and society at large. Their stories serve as an inspiration to aspiring scholars, reminding them that hard work and perseverance are key to achieving their goals.

Through the Chancellor’s Scholarship program, SIUC continues to nurture the brightest minds and empower them to pursue their dreams with unwavering determination. Piper and Libby will carry with them the promise of a bright future filled with boundless opportunities.

In the coming years, Piper, Libby, and their peers will undoubtedly leave an indelible mark on the SIUC community, embodying the spirit of excellence and ambition that defines the university’s legacy. Their journey is just beginning, and we eagerly anticipate the extraordinary accomplishments that lie ahead for these bright young minds.

The SIUC 2024 Chancellor’s Scholarship recipients represent the epitome of academic excellence and promise a future filled with boundless opportunities. As they embark on this transformative chapter of their lives, we extend our heartfelt congratulations and unwavering support to Piper, Libby, and all the recipients as they continue to shine brightly and make their mark on the world.