BETTENDORF, IOWA (May 27, 2025) — The Quad Cities Community Foundation has announced the recipients of $754,894 in scholarship awards. The awards are made possible by the generosity of donors to scholarship funds at the Community Foundation. Students, families, and donors were celebrated at a recent reception event.
“At the Community Foundation, we and our donors remain deeply committed to investing in the success of local students,” said Sue Hafkemeyer, president and CEO of the Community Foundation. “Getting to speak with the students who earned these awards, I’m filled with pride and hope for the future. Our staff, board, donors, and scholarship committee are inspired by their potential, and we’re excited to see how they’ll shape our community in the years to come.”
This year, 79 scholarships were awarded. More than half of these awards are renewable, meaning students will receive ongoing financial support throughout their academic careers. Awards were granted to students of all ages and educational paths, from community colleges and four-year universities to trade and technical schools.
“Each donor has their own story behind giving,” Hafkemeyer said. “Some scholarships honor loved ones; others reflect a desire to give back after receiving support themselves. No matter the reason, this generosity is an investment in the next generation—and in the future of our entire region.”
This year, six new funds celebrated their first awards. And other longstanding funds celebrated major milestones, including the Paul and Barbara Yamber Memorial STEM Scholarship and Edwin R Adland and Ruth H Adland Scholarship, which each reached a total of $300,000 in awards.
“This growth is a testament to the generosity of our region and the faith our community has in education,” said Kelly Thompson, Community Foundation vice president of grantmaking and community initiatives. “Scholarships are how donors cast a vote of confidence in our local students.”
Community members interested in starting a scholarship for area students can contact the Community Foundation at (563) 326-2840.
The following students received 2025 scholarships:
Michael Helke
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