receiving a scholarship relieved some of the financial pressure.

Garrett Anderson ’10 joined the U.S. Army as a way to help pay for school. After serving his country, he planned on getting a degree and becoming a police officer. But after serving eight years, he lost his right arm while fighting in Iraq.

Since his injury made a career in law enforcement difficult, he shifted his focus to helping other veterans. A job with the Department of Veterans Affairs became the new destination, with a degree in criminal justice from Illinois State the first stop.

If hitting the books wasn’t enough, helping his wife raise two daughters while taking care of
a typical homeowner’s bills was. But receiving a scholarship relieved some of the financial pressure.

“There was less stress on life for me,” he said. “I put more focus on school, and that allowed me to graduate on time.”

Garrett became the first in his family to graduate with a four-year degree. And seeing him graduate made a lasting impression on his 4-year old daughter.

“She was at my graduation and she thought it was the greatest thing in the world. She’ll always have a memory of me walking across the stage and getting my diploma.”

Previous Stories

• Scott Guerrero ’10. The first of six children to go to college.
• Lorryn Neely. She dreamed of becoming a teacher.
• Jeff Amport ’11. A scholarship inspired him to push himself academically.
• Jackie Carmichael. A 2010 recipient of a scholarship established to support a student-athlete.
• Doug Johnson ’10. Scholarships drew Doug to Illinois State.
• Garrett Anderson ’10. Receiving a scholarship relieved some of the financial pressure.
• Danielle Piagentini ’11. A gift allowed her to pursue her education with more peace of mind.
• Amie Burke. Amie found her place at Illinois State.
• Ronnell Robinzine ’09. A desire to make a difference.
• Jenni McCool, Ph.D. ’09. Going the extra mile.
• Lauren Knapp ’11. Energy source.