2026 Lilly Endowment Community Scholarship Recipients

Andino scarfone

Andino Scarfone, the son of Tammy Scarfone and the late Dominick Scarfone, has been named Lawrence County Community Foundation’s 2026 Lilly Endowment Community Scholar. Andino is a senior at Mitchell High School and plans to major in Mechanical Engineering at Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology.

Andino responded to the news by sharing, “My mother went to the mailbox and called me to open the letter immediately. I was shocked, excited, and grateful. Receiving this scholarship will allow me to focus on my studies, obtain my degree, and ease the burden from my mom. With this scholarship, I can achieve my dreams and attend Rose-Hulman. Thank you so much!"

Tyson Chse, a lead mentor for the Lawrence County 4-H Superior STEAM, a youth development club, shared the following: “Andino has consistently impressed me with his dedication, strong work ethic, and passionate, thriving leadership. Even while maintaining a demanding academic schedule, Andino has shown an unwavering commitment to every project he has taken on. He is zealous about teaching the next generation of club members. He is deeply driven by a heartfelt mission to make the world a better place—one kid at a time.”

 

Olivia Taylor

Olivia Taylor, daughter of Candy Van Lue, Jonathon Taylor, and stepfather Rusty Van Lue, has been named Martin County Community Foundation’s 2026 Lilly Endowment Community Scholar.  Olivia is a senior at Loogootee High School and plans to major in finance. She has not yet determined the university she will attend, but the scholarship will afford many possibilities. 

Olivia responded to the news by sharing, “Being selected as a Lilly Scholar is something I’m incredibly grateful for. It still doesn’t feel real. This scholarship will truly change my life and give me opportunities I never thought I would have. I want to thank my family, especially my mom, along with my teachers, friends, and everyone who has pushed me to work hard and believe in myself. I’m also so thankful to the Lilly Endowment and the Martin County Community Foundation for investing in my future and giving me the chance to go after my goals without the stress of college costs.”

An educator shared that she has been consistently impressed by Olivia’s dedication, strong work ethic and organizational skills. She noted, “one of the most admirable qualities of Olivia is her ability to embrace challenges without making excuses; she has consistently demonstrated an extraordinary commitment to her studies, and I am confident that she will bring the same dedication and enthusiasm to her college studies and future career in finance.”