Congratulations to our 2025 Community Scholarship Winner, Shayla Murray! We’re excited to recognize Shayla and her impressive accomplishments both academically and in her many extra-curricular activities. Get to know Shayla below and see why she was selected as our winner this year.
Hi! I’m Shayla and I am from Carbondale, Illinois, where I graduated from Carbondale Community High School. During high school, I was an active member of Key Club, served as a Class Officer, and participated in the Creative Writing Club. Outside of school, I had the honor of being selected as a Hugh O’Brien Youth Leadership ambassador, which influenced my passion for helping others. Currently, I am attending Southern Illinois University Carbondale, where I am pursuing a double major in Psychology and Cinema, with a minor in Child and Family Services. My career goal is to become a therapist, specializing in helping couples and teenagers who are navigating mental health challenges.
When I received the call informing me that I had been selected as the recipient of the 2025 R.F. Wittmeyer Community Service Scholarship, I was utterly speechless, overwhelmed with happiness, and at a loss for words to convey my emotions. The first thing I did was immediately call my mother to share the remarkable news, and I vividly recall how I couldn’t stop smiling. It is an immense honor to have been chosen by the scholarship committee, and I am grateful to be bestowed with this recognition. This award will significantly bolster my aspirations and provide invaluable support as I pursue my future goals in college. I am deeply committed to making the most of this opportunity and to honoring the faith the committee has placed in me.
Ron Wittmeyer connected with Shayla to congratulate her personally and to learn more about her service and club involvement and career aspirations. Join the conversation and hear more from Shayla and Ron.
