Rotary Club of Naperville Scholarships - Gene Drendel Scholarship, Service Above Self Scholarship, and At Hope Scholarship

Scholarship applicants must live within the attendance boundaries of Naperville School District 203 or Indian Prairie School District 204 and must graduate from high school during the academic year of application. Local parochial high school seniors who reside in Naperville school districts 203/204 are also encouraged to apply Scholarship candidates may not be a related to a member of The Rotary Club of Naperville.

Gene Drendel Scholarship

• This scholarship was introduced to honor Gene Drendel, a distinguished Rotarian, a longtime and well-respected educator, and life-long resident of Naperville. Gene was active in youth athletics, especially wrestling, high school football and Little League Baseball, as a coach, announcer and supporter. He was also active in many civic and charitable organizations.
• The Gene Drendel scholarship is awarded annually to one high school senior who has a history of academic achievement, proven athletic excellence, and service to their school and community.

Service Above Self Scholarship

• The Rotary Club of Naperville “Service Above Self” Scholarship specifically recognizes and rewards an applicant who successfully demonstrates a substantial commitment to service. In 1989 The Rotary Council on Legislation established “Service Above Self” as the principal motto of Rotary because it best conveys the philosophy of unselfish volunteer service.
• The “Service Above Self” scholarship is awarded annually to two graduating high school seniors. Specific areas considered when reviewing applicants are in-school service and community service history, and evidence of a lifelong commitment to service.

At Hope Scholarship

• The “At Hope” Scholarships specifically recognize and reward recipients’ hopeful behavior in overcoming significant challenges during their high school careers. How one chooses to navigate and overcome life challenges demonstrates the character of the individual and the resolve for continued success. Also taken into consideration when reviewing applicants will be in-school and community service involvement.

Email Questions/Concerns to Maria Caselli, Chair, RCN Scholarship Committee at mcaselli@napervillerotary.com.