Judy M Thome Memorial NFP

04/10/2025

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
April 10, 2025

Judy M. Thome Memorial Scholarship Honors Two Student Artists for 2025

ROCK FALLS, IL – The Judy M. Thome Memorial NFP is proud to announce the recipients of its 2025 Memorial Scholarships, awarded annually to high school students who exemplify passion, dedication, and heart in the arts—values that defined beloved educator Judy Thome.

Kaylee Johnson has been named one of this year’s Judy M. Thome Memorial Scholarship recipients. Her outstanding commitment to the arts, leadership, and resilience made a lasting impression on the selection committee. Kaylee’s creativity and drive embody the legacy of Judy Thome, whose ability to see potential in others continues to inspire the foundation’s work.

Micheal Ely will also receive a scholarship. His journey as an emerging artist, marked by personal growth and a deepening dedication to his craft, powerfully reflected the character and promise Judy nurtured in her students.

Each recipient was honored for their unique strengths and potential. While individual awards may differ in size, they reflect equal belief in each student’s future. The foundation has awarded multiple scholarships in past years, and this continued tradition reflects its growing mission—to expand support for students in the arts and, in time, offer multiple full scholarships annually.

“We are incredibly proud to honor Kaylee and Michael,” said JC Heerdt, President of the Judy M. Thome Memorial NFP. “These students embody everything this scholarship stands for—dedication, authenticity, and the courage to grow through creativity. We know Judy would be cheering them on with pride.”

The Judy M. Thome Memorial NFP honors the memory of longtime Rock Falls educator Judy Thome, whose compassion, mentorship, and belief in her students left a lasting mark. The organization supports scholarships and special projects that reflect her life’s work and enduring influence.

To support the foundation’s efforts and help expand the number and size of future scholarships, visit judymthome.org or follow on Facebook at Judy M Thome Memorial NFP.

03/14/2025

2025 application window closes on 3/15/25!

2025 Judy M Thome Memorial Scholarship Applications Now Open

The Judy M Thome Memorial Scholarship, established in 2023 in memory of beloved Rock Falls Township High School English teacher Judy Thome, is now accepting applications for 2025. Mrs. Thome dedicated her life to inspiring students in the classroom and through extracurricular activities, serving as the Fall Play Director, Contest Play Director, and Scholastic Bowl Supervisor. Her legacy lives on through this scholarship, which was created by former students and community members who were deeply impacted by her mentorship.

Scholarship Details:
Each year, one or more scholarships will be awarded to qualified graduating seniors from Rock Falls Township High School to assist with post-graduate educational expenses. Eligible recipients must be enrolled in a two- or four-year college or trade school, with funds awarded upon proof of registration. While this is not a need-based scholarship, first-generation college students are strongly encouraged to apply.

Eligibility Requirements:
Applicants must have participated in at least one of the following activities during their time at Rock Falls Township High School:
• Theatrical Productions
• Scholastic Bowl
• Advanced English/Language Arts courses

Participation in these activities does not need to span all four years of high school; however, total involvement will be considered in the selection process.

Application Components:
1. Student Submission (Choose One):
• Essay (250-500 words) OR
• Video (3-5 minutes)
Applicants should respond to one of the following prompts:
1. Describe a teacher or coach who changed your life and how they influenced you.
2. Explain how Alexander Pope’s quote, “Act well your part; there all the honor lies,” applies to your life experiences.
3. Describe how William Shakespeare’s quote, “Our doubts are traitors and make us lose the good we oft might win by fearing to attempt,” relates to your personal journey.
4. A Judy Thome student possesses the following qualities. Describe how you exemplify them:
• A wide array of interests and abilities
• A visionary mindset
• Demonstrated growth of mind and character
• The ability to take advantage of opportunities presented
2. Letter of Recommendation:
Applicants must provide a letter of recommendation from a teacher, coach, or community member (not a relative) who can highlight how the student has embraced high school opportunities, shown personal growth, and encouraged and uplifted those around them.

Selection Process:
A committee of at least three members of the Judy M Thome Memorial organization, unrelated to the applicant, will review submissions and select recipients based on the outlined criteria.

Submission Deadline:
All application materials must be submitted no later than March 15, 2025, via the official scholarship website: https://judymthome.org/scholarship

For more information and to submit your application, please visit the official Judy M Thome Memorial Scholarship page.

Honor Judy Thome’s legacy and take the next step in your educational journey—apply today!

01/24/2025

2025 Judy M Thome Memorial Scholarship Applications Now Open

The Judy M Thome Memorial Scholarship, established in 2023 in memory of beloved Rock Falls Township High School English teacher Judy Thome, is now accepting applications for 2025. Mrs. Thome dedicated her life to inspiring students in the classroom and through extracurricular activities, serving as the Fall Play Director, Contest Play Director, and Scholastic Bowl Supervisor. Her legacy lives on through this scholarship, which was created by former students and community members who were deeply impacted by her mentorship.

Scholarship Details:
Each year, one or more scholarships will be awarded to qualified graduating seniors from Rock Falls Township High School to assist with post-graduate educational expenses. Eligible recipients must be enrolled in a two- or four-year college or trade school, with funds awarded upon proof of registration. While this is not a need-based scholarship, first-generation college students are strongly encouraged to apply.

Eligibility Requirements:
Applicants must have participated in at least one of the following activities during their time at Rock Falls Township High School:
• Theatrical Productions
• Scholastic Bowl
• Advanced English/Language Arts courses

Participation in these activities does not need to span all four years of high school; however, total involvement will be considered in the selection process.

Application Components:
1. Student Submission (Choose One):
• Essay (250-500 words) OR
• Video (3-5 minutes)
Applicants should respond to one of the following prompts:
1. Describe a teacher or coach who changed your life and how they influenced you.
2. Explain how Alexander Pope’s quote, “Act well your part; there all the honor lies,” applies to your life experiences.
3. Describe how William Shakespeare’s quote, “Our doubts are traitors and make us lose the good we oft might win by fearing to attempt,” relates to your personal journey.
4. A Judy Thome student possesses the following qualities. Describe how you exemplify them:
• A wide array of interests and abilities
• A visionary mindset
• Demonstrated growth of mind and character
• The ability to take advantage of opportunities presented
2. Letter of Recommendation:
Applicants must provide a letter of recommendation from a teacher, coach, or community member (not a relative) who can highlight how the student has embraced high school opportunities, shown personal growth, and encouraged and uplifted those around them.

Selection Process:
A committee of at least three members of the Judy M Thome Memorial organization, unrelated to the applicant, will review submissions and select recipients based on the outlined criteria.

Submission Deadline:
All application materials must be submitted no later than March 15, 2025, via the official scholarship website: https://judymthome.org/scholarship

For more information and to submit your application, please visit the official Judy M Thome Memorial Scholarship page.

Honor Judy Thome’s legacy and take the next step in your educational journey—apply today!

05/03/2024

Send a message to learn more

12/15/2023

The submission window is now open for the 2024 Judy M Thome Memorial Scholarship for Rock Falls High School students.

The scholarship committee asks potential awardees to write or perform on video one of four prompts that exemplify the character traits possessed by JT's RFHS alumni.

Great educators transform lives. Judy Thome did this. And, thanks to your support - her impact on Rock Falls students will continue with the Judy M Thome Memorial Scholarship.

Read more: https://www.judymthome.org/scholarship

08/13/2023

Honoring the First Recipient of the Judy M. Thome Memorial Scholarship

We are thrilled to announce and celebrate Elizabeth Buikema as the first recipient of the Judy M. Thome Memorial Scholarship! Elizabeth's journey is a shining example of determination, growth, and the incredible power of the arts.

As Elizabeth embarks on her next adventure at the University of Wisconsin, Platteville, to pursue her passion for music, we reflect on the remarkable journey that led her here. We awarded Elizabeth $1000 to support her dreams and couldn't be more proud.
Elizabeth's journey through the arts is a testament to her unwavering dedication and ability to transform challenges into triumphs. From her modest beginnings with just six lines in her first-year production, she soared to become a leader of the Rock Falls High School Thespian troupe during her senior year.

Judy Thome's legacy lives on through Elizabeth's achievements. Judy had an incredible gift of seeing our potential even before we saw it in ourselves. The guidance and leadership of the Rock Falls High School arts program nurtured Elizabeth's growth into an exceptional individual. We firmly believe she will make an extraordinary impact on the world.

Elizabeth, as you step into this new chapter of your life, remember that you carry with you the spirit of Judy Thome and all those who believe in your potential. You are one of "JT's kids," and your journey reflects the love, passion, and dedication that Judy stood for.

The future holds boundless opportunities for you, and we are excited to see you continue to shine at the University of Wisconsin, Platteville. Embrace every moment, continue to let your passion for music guide you, and share your incredible gifts with the world.

Congratulations, Elizabeth, and best wishes on your collegiate journey. Here's to a bright and harmonious future!

08/02/2023

Since JT loved all books -- Happy National Coloring Book Day!!

07/02/2023

2nd July 1961 - Ernest Hemingway died, author of "Old Man and the Sea"

06/27/2023

“The Lottery” by Shirley Jackson, takes place on June 27th.

This story was brought up repeatedly by past students of Judy Thome as a story (and short film) they will always remember.

06/08/2023

The answer to Sunday's scholastic bowl question (name this play in which real estate salesmen compete for good leads) was "Glengarry Glen Ross"

06/04/2023

Who's ready for some Scholastic Bowl?

Category -- Literature

Question: Name this play in which real estate salesmen compete for good leads

12/28/2022

As we are in the holiday season, reflecting on the past and thinking about the coming new year, we appreciate you for joining us in honoring an incredible educator, Judy M Thome.

The JT Scholarship closes on March 15th. Any RFHS student planning on enrolling in college is encouraged to apply before for the inaugural scholarships. Visit: https://www.judymthome.org/scholarship

Please consider donating to the Judy M Thome Memorial to continue her legacy. https://judymthome.org/