Burleson Memorial Scholarship 2010

Written by Eugene Schrempf | 30 May 2010

Daniel, Tiffany, and Dallis Burleson

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.

The emotional and physical recovery has been long and painful for Thomas, but he has now returned to work, and has begun rebuilding his life. Thomas joined the Jaycees in 2000, and has served on the Jaycees Board of Directors.

As a result of his traumatic loss, Thomas has committed to educating teens and adults about the dangers of drinking. As the sole survivor in his family, he is living proof of what can and does occur.

He counsels teens at local high schools, and adults in various venues including at statewide functions. He spends much of his time counseling drunk-driving offenders as well. His efforts have been tireless.

As a lasting memorial to the three Burleson children who were taken that August night in 1999, the  Crystal Lake Jaycees have created a college scholarship fund to help support local area students who wish to continue their education.

One (1) scholarship of $1000 is available  for 2010.

The Criteria

Awards given to District 155 high school seniors who will be pursuing full-time undergraduate studies at an accredited two or four year college/university, or vocational-technical school. Student must be legal U.S. resident. Selection criteria will be considered based on the following criteria: educational goals, grade point average, community involvement, application content and quality.  Preference will be given to high school students graduating by June 2010.

Apply Today

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

The 2010 Scholarship application deadline: June 20, 2010 (Mailed application must be postmarked/emailed by this date.).

Mail filled out applications to:

Crystal Lake Jaycees

EMail filled out applications to:
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How You Can Get Involved

Each spring the Jaycees will form a committee to interview and review the students' essays. We always need help on that committee. Personal and business donations to the scholarship fund are welcome throughout the entire year.

Want to Help?

The Jaycees intend to make the Burleson Memorial Scholarship awards an annual event, but we need the community's help to do so. If you, your business or organization would like to consider a donation to this worthwhile endeavor, and make a lasting and positive difference in the lives of our children, please send your check to:

Crystal Lake Jaycees

Thank you.