Lee Jessup Youth Leadership Award and Scholarship
The Lee Jessup Youth Leadership Award and Scholarship was created to honor the memory and legacy of Leamon Kemp “Lee” Jessup, an original member of the MAYC Board of Directors, and a founding member of the MAYC Foundation. Lee was a “larger than life” individual who dedicated his life to community and the betterment of Mahomet area youth as demonstrated through his work with MAYC since its inception in 1994.
This program annually awards four $500 post-secondary scholarships, one to a Mahomet-Seymour senior and three to previous winners to renew their award. Each recipient receives four awards in total as long as their continuing education qualifications are met. Candidates must have promoted academic achievement, community service, positive values, and have participated in MAYC programs or volunteered for MAYC.
Past Scholarship Winners
2023 Lee Jessup Scholarship Awardee
Lauren Nelson received the 2023 scholarship for her dedication and involvement in Mahomet Area Youth Club. She participated in various B.L.A.S.T. programs throughout her younger years and served as a MAYC group leader and camp counselor. Lauren attends the University of Missouri and is pursuing a degree in occupational therapy.
Lauren receives $500 a year – up to $2000 total during her college career.
2022 Lee Jessup Scholarship Awardee
Grace Lietz received the 2022 scholarship for her exceptional demonstration of leadership in her surrounding community. She is a mentor to others and has the ability to put others’ needs above all else. Grace has participated in MAYC’s summer break and work study programs. She currently attends Saint Louis University and is pursuing a degree in healthcare to achieve her dream of becoming a pediatric nurse practitioner.
Grace receives $500 a year – up to $2000 total during her college career.
2021 Lee Jessup Scholarship Awardee
Cassidy Peterson received the 2021 scholarship for her outstanding community service in Mahomet including volunteering for Mahomet Run which is a MAYC annual event and fundraiser. Cassidy attends Parkland College and is pursuing a degree in early childhood education.
Cassidy receives $500 a year – up to $2000 total during her college career.
2021 Lee Jessup Scholarship Awardee
Megan Devine also received the 2021 scholarship for demonstrating perseverance through hard work and her heart for others in the Mahomet community including the MAYC Club. Megan attends Parkland College in Champaign, Illinois and is studying nursing. She hopes to become a registered nurse RN after college and will continue to pursue coursework to be a nurse practitioner NP.
Megan receives $500 a year – up to $2000 total during her college career.
PAST AWARDEES
2019 Recipient Alese Hutchison University of Illinois: Champaign-Urbana
2018 Recipient Joshua Johnson University of Illinois: Springfield
(Business Administration with a concentration in Finance)
Join us in investing in the future of Mahomet area youth by expanding educational opportunities through the Lee Jessup Youth Leadership Award and Scholarship. To learn more about the Lee Jessup Youth Leadership Award and Scholarship program, please email us at info@maycfoundation.org.
Mahomet-Seymour High School seniors are encouraged to apply for the Lee Jessup Youth Leadership Award and Scholarship. If awarded, the scholarship may be renewed annually for a total of 4 awards. Criteria includes:
- evidence of positive influence on peers
- 2.5 GPA during the preceding school year, or raised his/her GPA by a significant amount
- participated in MAYC programs or volunteered for MAYC
- performed 75 hours of community service during the preceding 12 months
- economic need
An application may be requested from a MSHS academic counselor or by emailing info@maycfoundation.org, due by March 31. Applicants will be asked to provide general demographic information as well as an essay that includes the following:
- Describe how MAYC has impacted on you personally.
- Explain financial need and how this award will impact your future.
- Illustrate your goals and aspirations and how your education and training will help you reach those goals.
- List school and community activities in which you have participated.
- Expound on your experience with volunteer and community service work.
Needing information regarding the Lee Jessup Youth Leadership Award and Scholarship application? Contact us at info@maycfoundation.org