Franklin College student Liberty Rivera, a sophomore majoring in English, was honored with the Independent Colleges of Indiana’s (ICI) “Realizing the Dream” scholarship. Rivera was one of 29 students from across Indiana to receive the award, which is given to sophomore students attending an ICI member institution.
The scholarship is made possible by a grant from Lilly Endowment, Inc. to ICI. The “Realizing the Dream” program recognizes students from ICI member institutions who are the first in their families to attend college. The program also recognizes the students’ families and inspirational teachers.
Rivera’s academic achievements during her first year at the college was a factor in her nomination for the award by Franklin College. Rivera is a member of Zeta Tau Alpha Fraternity, where she serves as the Director of Sisterhood. She also works as a tutor in the Write Place, Franklin College’s English and writing study center.
Rivera was recognized with the “Realizing the Dream” scholarship at a reception and awards dinner in March at the Eiteljorg Museum in Indianapolis. Along with recognition at this event, each award winner received a plaque and $4,000 to assist with the costs associated with attending college.
“The Realizing the Dream scholarship showed me the true meaning of love and support. Through this scholarship I was not only able to receive financial support, but emotional support and love,” said Rivera, “Whether it was the support of my family, friends, professors or advisers, I felt a massive amount of encouragement from all the important people in my life. It made me realize that without all of this, I would not be where I am today, and for that I am eternally grateful.”
The “Realizing the Dream” program also provides a $1,000 professional development grant to the teacher who inspired the recipient to go to college. Rivera chose Mr. Jim Weitzel, who teaches in the history department at River Forest High School in Hobart, Ind.
“One of my greatest supporters throughout my high school career was my history teacher, Mr. Weitzel. I was lucky enough to have him as a teacher all four years of high school and through it all, he was always someone I knew I could look to for advice and support,” said Rivera. “Whether it be academic advice or personal experiences, he was always there. Mr. Weitzel was and continues to be one of my biggest inspirations in all aspects of my life.”
Liberty Rivera is the daughter of Rudy and Becky Rivera of Lake Station.
ICI serves as the collective voice for excellence and choice in higher education for all students. As a non-profit association, it represents Indiana’s 29 private, nonprofit, regionally accredited colleges and universities.
For more information, contact the Franklin College Office of Communications at (317) 738-8185.
By: Clayton Shull ’26
Franklin College Pulliam Fellow