Taylorville Community Credit Union has announced the winners of its 12th annual “Stop. SHOP. VOTE!” scholarship program, awarding $1,000 each to eight graduating seniors from four area high schools.

Two students from Pana High School, Gracelynn Elliott and Kaylee Kuhn, were among this year’s recipients. Elliott plans to study criminology and criminal justice at Southern Illinois University Carbondale, while Kuhn will begin at Lake Land College before transferring to Eastern Illinois University to pursue a bachelor’s degree in education. 

TCCU President Will Perkins said the credit union is proud to support local students as they continue their education. He also thanked community members and local businesses for their participation in the program, which invites residents to “stop, shop and vote” for student candidates.

In Pana alone, 21 businesses took part in the initiative, generating nearly 7,000 votes. The program is designed not only to provide scholarships but also to encourage residents to support local businesses.

Registration for next year’s scholarship program will open in August and run through Oct. 9. Eligible high school seniors planning to continue their education can register through TCCU.

Founded in 1956, Taylorville Community Credit Union serves residents in Christian, Shelby and Montgomery counties and operates as a not-for-profit financial cooperative.

Pictured below are the two Pana High School students who were awarded the TTCU “Stop. SHOP. VOTE!” scholarship:

Gracelynn Elliott(LEFT) and TCCU Pana Branch Manager, Al Stupek (Right)

Mike Cothern, TCCU Pana loan officer (Left) and Kaylee Kuhnand (Right)

For more information on Taylorville community Credit Union, Visit them online at www.ttcu.org