May 4, 2022 – Collinsville Area Vocational Center (CAVC) announced today that Collinsville High School senior Ayleen Cortez is the first recipient of the Marilyn & Doug Huber Vocational Scholarship. The Hubers joined CAVC faculty and Director Joe McGinnis for the announcement of the $2,500 award.
Ayleen is a student in the CAVC Criminal Justice program. After graduation, she plans to study psychology at Southern Illinois University Edwardsville.
“Once I graduate with my bachelors, I hope to pursue a career in psychiatry or become a psychologist,” said Cortez, “I chose to major in psychology because it will allow me to develop a broad understanding of human behavior, and the skills needed to understand or interpret it.”
Huber Vocational Scholarship
Marilyn Huber was a school psychologist in Collinsville Community Unit School District #10 for 17 years before retiring. Their children Aaron (CHS Class of 2005) and Patrick (CHS Class of 2006) attended Collinsville schools. Doug’s father was the Superintendent of Schools in Westville, Illinois, which added to their family’s desire to support education. Their passion for the Collinsville community, and new scholarship initiatives launched by CUSD 10 and CAVC, provided the catalyst for their philanthropy.
“I grew up in Collinsville and it’s where we raised our family,” said Marilyn, “Collinsville has such dedicated teachers and staff. We are impressed with the innovative approach the district has taken to grow future teachers through the Kahoks Teaching Kahoks program. And, as a former school psychologist, I know students have different talents and many thrive in the “hands-on” environment offered by Career and Technical Education. Access to both of these opportunities is important.”
“Our contribution to these scholarship programs will help make it possible for high school graduates to continue their education and move toward careers. A simple act by our family will make a difference to students who are trying to pay for college or technical training,” she said.
“Mr. and Mrs. Huber’s passion to make a difference, and their love for the district, are evident in their generous contribution that will benefit our high school students for years to come and expand our work force in both education and the trades,” said Collinsville CUSD 10 Superintendent Dr. Mark B. Skertich. “They embody one of our communities’ strongest qualities: a constant dedication to our students.”
The Huber gift is among several endowed scholarship funds supported through the Collinsville Area Community Foundation (CACF).
SUPPORT LOCAL SCHOLARSHIPS
To support or create a scholarship for CHS or CAVC students, visit the Collinsville Area Community Foundation website. Donations through CACF are tax deductible.