Deborah Jean Rydberg Memorial Scholarship

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Supporting athletes who want to positively impact the lives of others.

Photo of Deborah Rydberg

Deborah Jean Rydberg was a coach, friend and mentor to the girls she coached in softball, basketball and volleyball at Guilford High School. Deb knew from an early age that she wanted to get a teaching degree, and she knew just how she was going to do it: “I’m going to college to be a teacher,” she told her parents. “And, I’m going on a scholarship.”

And she did, developing her athletic talent to attend Illinois State University on a softball scholarship. She received a teaching degree and returned to her hometown to teach and to her alma mater, Guilford High School, to coach and to make a difference in the lives of countless young women.

Even after her untimely death in March of 1998, Coach Rydberg continues to inspire and encourage young women through the Deborah Jean Rydberg Memorial Scholarship.

Eligibility

Every CFNIL scholarship has a unique intent, often reflecting the background of the donor or person in whose memory the fund was created. CFNIL uses an online "universal" application to ensure the most efficient process; as an applicant, you do not need to predetermine which scholarships you should apply for. Complete ONE application each cycle, and your answers to a series of yes/no and personal background questions automatically match you to every scholarship you are eligible for. Because our scholarships were created to support students of all ages, backgrounds, and aspirations, we encourage every scholarship seeker (high school graduating seniors and older) to apply!
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  • Closed

    This scholarship is part of the Winter application cycle.

    This scholarship is open from December 1st to February 1st.

    Learn How to Apply

  • Specifications

    Academic performance will be given moderate consideration in the selection process.

    Providing a reference from a Guilford High School coach is strongly recommended but not required.

  • Written Prompt

    Each CFNIL scholarship is created with a specific purpose in mind. As you complete the application, the system automatically matches you with every scholarship for which you are eligible and will present you with a specific written prompt for each. You're encouraged to craft a unique response to each prompt to show the reviewers why you're the best candidate for that scholarship.