Strengthening its dedication to supporting members and their families, Illinois LICA recently established a scholarship program to help its members' families offset rising costs associated with pursuing post-high school education. Open to high school seniors and upperclassmen pursuing post-high school education (including 2- or 4-year degrees and trade schools) and any course of study, applicants must submit transcripts, an essay and three letters of recommendation to complete the application process. For 2026, the selection committee awarded three outstanding individuals with $1,500 scholarships each.
Jessica Dietz (Walnut, Ill.) — Eastern Kentucky University — Fire, Arson and Explosion Investigation: daughter of Paul and Kimberly Dietz, Jessica is a junior at Eastern Kentucky University, maintaining a 3.38 GPA. Being engaged with her local fire department in her teens and attending her first fire investigation by age 16, Jessica became inspired to pursue her current career path and has gained hands-on experience.
While making the Dean's List and Honor Society, she has served on two local fire departments and assisted with her family's drainage company, Dietz Drainage. She is a member of the Walnut Fire Protection District, an emergency medical responder and works at Ace Hardware, while maintaining her college coursework. After graduation, Jessica plans on working for either the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) or Fire Tech, Inc.
Callista Ridgely (Parkersburg, Ill.) — Richland County High School — Chemical Engineering: granddaughter of Allen and Patricia Yonaka and daughter of Austin and Suzanna Ridgely, Callista is a senior at Richland County High School where she is dual enrolled in both high school and college credit courses, maintaining a 5.0 GPA. In addition to many activities, Callista serves as class treasurer, Tri-M Music Honor Society treasurer and a council member of FBLA.
She is a Big Future Rural and Small School Scholar and a recipient of the STRIPES award for respect, integrity and self-discipline. She has committed time to volunteering with multiple organizations and service projects. With plans to attend Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology in pursuit of a chemical engineering degree, Callista has a strong desire to work in the energy and/or materials sector.
Shay Layden (Hoopeston, Ill.) — Hoopeston Area High School — General Studies: daughter of Eric and Angela Layden, Shay is a senior at Hoopeston Area High School, maintaining a 3.51 GPA. In addition to a number of sports and other activities, Shay serves as vice president of her FFA Chapter and team manager of the softball team. She also works part-time at a local ice cream shop.
Shay aspires to become a master electrician with a focus on becoming an outside lineman.
Illinois LICA is honored to support these outstanding scholars as they work toward their future goals. Their dedication and passion exemplify the values of our association, and we look forward to seeing all they accomplish.
For more information, visit illica.net.
