The Illinois Student Assistance Commission congratulated the group for their outstanding academic performance. 

EVERGREEN PARK, IL — Evergreen Park Community High School’s Principal, Matt Dugan, is pleased to announce that 23 students from the graduating class of 2026 have been designated as Illinois State Scholars.

The Illinois Student Assistance Commission (ISAC), the state’s college access and financial aid agency, presents this important recognition of academic achievement to exceptional Illinois high school students annually. This year, nearly 16,700 honorees join the other outstanding students who have been honored since the designation was first introduced in 1958.  

The following students were named 2025-26 Illinois State Scholars: Elizabeth Adjayi, Jade Alfano, Zachary Barnes, Juliana Bosch, Louise Brady, Fiona Buchanan, Adrian Buenrostro, Maya Cisneros, Giada Gainer, Emilio Gonzalez, Neve Hayes, Megan Klimowski, Grace Kole, Grace Koziczkowski, Mackenzie Lantz, Therese Lee, Zion McCadd, Patrick Moroney, Emma Neylon, Annie Olson, Elliott Rayson, Marielle Ribar, and Samantha Sliter. These students, along with their parents/guardians will be invited to a recognition breakfast on Wednesday, December 17 where the students will receive an embroidered sweatshirt and congratulations from the principal, Matt Dugan and superintendent, Tom O’Malley.

The Illinois State Scholar designation is a non-monetary award. Each State Scholar will receive a congratulatory letter and a Certificate of Achievement from ISAC. Additionally, awardees can download an official Illinois State Scholar Program badge to display on their online profiles, social media platforms, and share with their high school counselors, colleges, employers, family members and others.