GRANITE CITY - GCS Credit Union has recently awarded the $2,000 Nicole R. Thorp Scholarship to Callie Kirksey of Granite City High School. GCS was looking for applicants who receive good grades, have an opinion on effective money habits and who are actively involved in school and the community.

Nicole R. Thorp, who the scholarship is named after, was a big believer in helping out where needed.

Get The Latest News!

Don't miss our top stories and need-to-know news everyday in your inbox.

Article continues after sponsor message

Callie is ranked number one in her class and is a varsity athlete. Callie’s community work includes volunteering with TWIGS, which is a local food bank, and Kids Bible Kamp. She also volunteers to help special needs kids play soccer during the fall.

Callie is planning to attend Indiana University-Purdue University-Indianapolis as a biomedical engineer major.Candidates were also required to submit an essay on three principles they believe should guide a new college student’s money habits.

Callie believes, “Responsibility is the most important aspect when it comes to spending your money. Three principles branch out of responsibility: budgeting, managing social spending, and making sure to buy the essentials before your wants.”

GCS wishes Callie the best of luck in continuing her education and reaching her goals.

Prefer RiverBender on Google
Copyright 2026 Riverbender.com. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

 

More like this:

Shooting Victim Shakeela Martin Remembered
Jul 2, 2026
Staunton Mom of Five is "Super Mom" Competition Quarterfinalist
Jun 1, 2026
Illinois State Treasurer Michael Frerichs Returns Record $308 Million To People, Businesses, Nonprofits In Fiscal Year 2026
4 days ago
Local Mom Says Vitality Women's Clinic Supported Her In Major Ways
4 days ago
Duckworth Says She’ll Oppose NDAA Without Amendment To End Trump’s Iran War
Jul 14, 2026