Franklin College sophomore Darian Porter from Evansville has been selected as a “Realizing the Dream” recipient by Independent Colleges of Indiana (ICI).

Honorees are first-generation college students in their families. They are selected during their sophomore year after showing academic achievement during their freshman year and demonstrating advancement toward bachelor’s degrees.

In addition, honorees select the most influential educator who helped them along the way as part of the program. Porter chose teacher Knetra Shaw from Lincoln School in Evansville.

Each honoree created a short video expressing what the award means to them. Porter’s video message can be viewed here. 

The “Realizing the Dream” program is made possible by a grant from Lilly Endowment Inc. The scholarship program annually recognizes first-generation students from ICI’s 29 private, non-profit colleges and universities. In recognition of their efforts, each student receives a check for $3,000 and each influential teacher or mentor receives a check for $1,000.

“Thanks to the continued support of Lilly Endowment, we get the opportunity to hear the inspiring stories of these first-generation students and the impact local educators have had on their drive to succeed academically,” ICI President & CEO David W. Wantz said. “These scholarship awards will provide critical support for these young people who are dreaming of future success.”

For more information, contact Franklin College’s Office of Communications at (317) 738-8185.

POSTED Feb 8, 2022