(Ripley County, IN) – The Ripley County Community Foundation is pleased to announce the recipient of the 2026 Lilly Endowment Community Scholarship for Ripley County: Shivam Patel of Jac-Cen-Del High School.
Lilly Endowment Community Scholars are recognized for their community involvement, academic achievement, character, and leadership.
“What impressed the committee the most about Shivam was his ability to balance rigorous academics with meaningful community involvement”, said Amy Streator, Executive Director.
Each Lilly Endowment Community Scholarship provides full tuition, required fees, and up to $900 per year for required books and equipment for four years of full-time undergraduate study leading to a baccalaureate degree at any eligible Indiana public or private nonprofit college or university. Scholars also join the Lilly Scholars Network (LSN), which connects them with resources and opportunities to lead on campus and in their communities. Both the scholarship program and LSN are supported by grants from Lilly Endowment to Independent Colleges of Indiana (ICI).
“Eternally grateful. Never underestimate the power of a common man,” said Patel.
In nominating Ripley County’s Lilly Endowment Community Scholar, the committee considered applicants on academic performance, citizenship, leadership, and personal attitude based on their community involvement, school activities, and essays. After narrowing the field of applicants, nominees were submitted to Independent Colleges of Indiana (ICI), the statewide administrator of the program, for final selection.
“This year’s applicant pool was exceptional, making the selection process challenging. The committee takes great care in reviewing each application to ensure the recipient reflects the values of leadership, scholarship, and community engagement. The selection process is rigorous, and the finalists represent a bright light for Ripley County’s future,” said Streator.
Since its inception in 1997–98, Lilly Endowment has supported this program with tuition grants totaling more than $505 million, benefiting over 5,400 Indiana students. The program’s primary
purposes are:
• To raise the level of educational attainment in Indiana.
• To increase awareness of the beneficial roles Indiana community foundations play.
• To encourage and support Lilly Scholars’ engagement with Indiana leaders to improve quality of life statewide.
The Ripley County Community Foundation is committed to Connecting People Who Care with Causes that Matter and is located at 13 E. George Street, Suite B, Batesville.
To learn how you can create opportunities and invest in the future of Ripley County, or to leave your legacy, contact the Ripley County Community Foundation at (812) 933-1098 or visit
www.rccfonline.org.
(Ripley County Community Foundation press release)
