Elgin Community College Announces 2026-27 Seigle Scholar Cohort

Four local students will attend Elgin Community College (ECC) at no cost this fall as members of the 2026-27 Seigle Scholar program, which covers tuition, fees, and books.

The Seigle Scholar program, established in 2024 by District 509 philanthropists Mark and Robin Seigle, supports graduating high school seniors and first-year college students by covering all student expenses for up to 60 credits toward an associate degree at ECC. This year marks the program’s third cohort of scholars.

“Mark and Robin Seigel’s commitment to the students of ECC and our community is embodied in the Seigle Scholar program,” said Rick Green, chair of the scholarship committee through the ECC Foundation Board and leader of the Seigle Scholar Selection Committee. “The students receiving these life-changing scholarships are fully engaged in their education and have a passion for community service. On behalf of the ECC Foundation Board and Scholarship Committee, we welcome the 2026 Seigle Scholar cohort to the ECC Campus and look forward to their continued success.”

The 2026-27 scholars are Juliana Arroyo, Gianna Deutsch, Leah Foerster, and Solis Jaime.

Juliana Arroyo

Juliana Arroyo, of Hanover Park and a Bartlett High School senior, will major in nursing this fall. During CNA clinicals at a local rehabilitation center, she worked directly with patients, developing a passion for compassionate, person-centered care.

“I was able to see the whole person and not just see their disability,” Arroyo said. “I’d lend an ear to them when they needed to talk, be the person they needed for care, and for support.”

Gianna Deutsch

Gianna Deutsch, an Elgin resident and Saint Edward Central Catholic High School senior, plans to study business at ECC this fall. Deutsch has been involved in community service since 2022, and has volunteered at Saint Patrick Parish Vacation Bible School and nonprofit Feed My Starving Children. After college, she hopes to start her own business one day. 

“My involvement in community service has greatly influenced my career goals and personal development because it has taught me the importance of incorporating what we love into what we do,” Deutsch said.

Leah Foerster

Leah Foerster, an Elgin High School senior from Elgin, plans to study psychology. A leader in both academics and the arts, she served as a dance captain and helped choreograph and teach performances.

Solis Jaime

Solis Jaime is a Carpentersville resident and Hampshire High School senior who will pursue an associate degree in liberal studies. Jaime has been active in community service through Girl Scouts and school organizations, focusing on supporting underserved populations.

“Community services exposed me to vulnerable populations in my area, such as the elderly, low-income families, and underprivileged communities,” Jaime said. “It [has been] satisfying to bring awareness to these social issues that surround me.”

To support scholarships, visit elgin.edu/foundation.

Editor’s note: This release has been updated to reflect a change in the 2026-27 Seigle Scholar cohort.