2011 Burleson Family Memorial Scholarship

The Crystal Lake Jaycees are now accepting applications for the 2011 Burleson Family Memorial Scholarship.    This year, one (1) scholarship of $1,000 is being made available to a 2011 graduating high school senior attending a District 155 Crystal Lake High School (Crystal Lake South, Crystal Lake Central, Prairie Ridge)

History of the Burleson Scholarship:
On August 21st, 1999, Thomas Burleson, his wife Eva, three children Daniel age 13, Tiffany age 11, and Dallis age 7, along with their family pet, were returning home from a day of fun and family togetherness at Six Flags Great America in Gurnee, Illinois, when a drunk driver struck their minivan head-on at high speed, traveling the wrong direction on a major highway.

Tragically, Eva and all of the children were killed in the violent head-on collision. The family pet was also killed. Thomas lived, but suffered severe head and neck injuries.

Thomas joined the Crystal Lake Jaycees in 2000 to continue his mission counseling and speaking to teens and adults about the dangers of drinking and driving.  His story and tireless efforts touched the hearts of the rest of our chapter.  We've continued to educate our members and friends on the dangers of drinking and driving. We regularly hold B.A.S.S.E.T training sessions for our members serving alcohol at events to insure the safety of our community.


As a lasting memorial to the three Burleson children (Daniel, Tiffany, Dallis), the Crystal Lake Jaycees have created a college scholarship fund to help support local area students who wish to further their education at a two or four year college or university.

Scholarship Details:

• One (1) scholarship valued at $1,000 is available in 2011.
• Deadline is May 2, 2011 at 5 pm.
• Must be a District 155 student at Crystal Lake High School (South, Central, or Prairie Ridge)
• Student must plan on attending a two-year or four-year college or university.
• Student must be graduating in May 2011.
• Completed application and essay received by May 2, 2011.

Scholarship application form for the Burleson Family Memorial Scholarship fund is now available for download.   To be considered, candidates must complete the entire application form and provide an essay.

The 2011 Scholarship application deadline: May 2, 2011 (Application must be received or emailed by this date.).



Mail filled out applications and essays to:

Crystal Lake Jaycees
Burleson Memorial Scholarship Fund
P.O. Box 7
Crystal Lake, IL 60039-0007

EMail filled out applications and essays to:
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Questions? Need more information?
Contact the Crystal Lake Jaycees at 815-356-JCJC (5252) or email us at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it