Ernest and Charlene Stachowiak Memorial Scholarship

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Supporting current college students with financial need and the ability to overcome obstacles.

Photo of Ernest and Charlene Stachowiak

Ernest (Ernie) and Charlene (Char) lived in Rockford, Illinois for 50 years. They both came from the LaSalle/Peru area and moved to Rockford after they were married.

Ernie was a graduate of Creighton University and worked in banking. Charlene continued her education while raising a family, and working hard to become C.F.O. of Southern Imperial Inc.

Throughout their lives, they worked hard and raised two wonderful children, son, Jan J. Stachowiak and daughter, Kim J. Stachowiak. They were entrepreneurs owning real estate, restaurants, and the Cherry Valley Inn Tavern. They enjoyed their life together, and retired to Las Vegas, Nevada in 1999.

While retired Ernie golfed and visited Starbucks daily. Charlene quilted, sang with the Silvertones, and took care of their new baby: “Tank” the bulldog. They will be remembered for the amazing people they were and the lives they touched.

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.

  • 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.