Taylor Murphy, a graduate student at Western Illinois University–Quad Cities (WIU-QC), received the 2023-24 Lori Lynne Myers Award to support her pursuit of a specialist degree in School Psychology. A United Township High School alum and former psychology major from WIU-QC, Murphy was chosen for the $9,300 scholarship to honor her balance of academic achievement with other life aspects, a caring nature, and sense of humor – qualities akin to those Lori Lynne Myers, a 1998 graduate of WIU’s School Psychology program, was remembered for after her unexpected passing.
Murphy, praised for her work ethic and attention to detail by WIU Psychology Professor Colin Harbke, is currently completing her practicum at Moline High School, with plans to remain in the area for her internship and future career. The award’s selection committee also acknowledged Katie Hernandez, Jessica Kennel, and Jacquelyn Beaver for their efforts with partial scholarships and an honorable mention, respectively.