David J. Blake Memorial Scholarship

The David J. Blake Memorial Scholarship honors the life and spirit of Dave Blake, North Central College Class of 1993—a loyal friend, proud dad, and someone who made people feel like they belonged just by being himself. Originally from Johnsburg, Illinois, Dave came to North Central to play football, but he found so much more — a second family.  The friendships he brought with him from Johnsburg merged seamlessly with those he formed at North Central.

Dave majored in business at North Central and went on to have a successful 25-year career at AT&T. Over time, he also explored a wide range of passions outside of the corporate world—from art and music to wellness, yoga, and spiritual growth. His time at North Central laid a foundation that supported both his professional path and his personal curiosity about the world.

Dave’s college years were full of friendships that would last a lifetime—some of his best stories, biggest laughs, and most meaningful connections started right on campus. He had a big personality and an even bigger heart. Whether he was helping a friend through a tough time or diving into something new with total enthusiasm, Dave brought his whole self to everything he did. And while his interests were vast, his greatest joy was being a dad. He was endlessly proud of his daughters Hunter and Frankie and loved them with his whole heart.

This scholarship supports students from a variety of disciplines at North Central College—students who create a sense of belonging, value connection, and live life with the same heart-forward spirit that Dave brought into every room he entered.  The hope is that this scholarship not only eases a student’s financial path but also encourages them to build meaningful relationships, explore their passions, and show up for others—just as Dave did.  He is deeply missed by many—but his spirit lives on through the connections he created, the love he gave, and the community that continues to carry him forward.

Students must meet the following criteria for consideration:

• Full-time, undergraduate student
• Sophomore, Junior or Senior
• Possess a minimum GPA of 2.75
• Must possess a positive influence on the North Central College community with demonstrated campus involvement.
• While this scholarship is open to all undergraduate majors, preference will be given to those majoring in Music, Art, Health Sciences and Business.
• Please submit a one-page, typed essay (300 word minimum) addressing the following questions: Please tell us a little about yourself and how your campus involvement meaningfully impacts the lives of those around you. Also, please speak to a time in your life when you helped create a sense of belonging and/or served as a resource to someone in a time of need.

_While not automatically renewable, candidates can reapply for this scholarship. _