The Community Foundation of Whitley County recently highlighted the first recipient of the Eli B. Michel Never Lost Never Late Wilderness Scholarship in its latest newsletter.
Haley Willson, a Biology teacher at Columbia City High School, was selected as the first recipient of the scholarship, which was established by Rick and Dawn Michel in memory of their son, Eli, who died while climbing in Denali National Park, Alaska, in 2023.
The scholarship gives young adults ages 18–25 the opportunity to participate in a NOLS wilderness course—an immersive experience designed to build leadership skills, courage, and confidence through expedition-based learning.
Willson applied for the scholarship in 2025 and spent this summer preparing for and completing an expedition in Alaska.
Reflecting on the experience, she shared:
“Such a great experience to meet new people, learn new skills, and explore new places. It was demanding, challenging, beautiful, and worth every mile traveled.”
Applications are now open for an expedition next summer.
Also in the Community Foundation’s Latest Newsletter
The latest newsletter from the Community Foundation of Whitley County includes several other opportunities and community updates:
- A $750,000 GIFT IX matching grant from Lilly Endowment Inc. and the Foundation’s effort to raise an additional $200,000 in matching funds.
- Applications for the 2027 Lilly Endowment Community Scholarship.
- A dollar-for-dollar matching opportunity for the Les Bills Family Firemen’s Christmas Fund.
- Plans for the Voices & Votes: Democracy in America Smithsonian exhibition coming to Whitley County in early 2027, along with volunteer opportunities.
- Tips for parents helping students navigate the scholarship application process.
- Information about a free estate-planning guide available through the Foundation.
- The story of Bonnie’s Hope Fund, created in memory of Bonnie Davis to support children’s programs at St. Patrick Catholic Church in Arcola.
There are many ways the Community Foundation is helping connect people, resources, and opportunities throughout Whitley County.
Read the full Community Foundation of Whitley County newsletter for application information, giving opportunities, volunteer needs, and more.
