Danville Area Community College: DACC Foundation awards inaugural Van Doren Scholarship to Schlarman Academy graduate

Jul. 12-The Danville Area Community College Foundation, a not-for-profit organization dedicated to promoting and supporting Danville Area Community College, has announced that the inaugural Mark and Carl Van Doren Scholarship has been awarded to Frederick Soderstrom, a 2024 graduate of Schlarman Academy. The scholarship honors the legacy of Vermilion County natives Mark Van Doren and Carl Van Doren, both Pulitzer Prize winners -Carl in 1939 for his biography of Ben Franklin, and Mark in 1940 for his "Collected Poems." The Van Doren Scholarship, established in 2023, recognizes the brothers' significant literary achievements and contributions. In December 2023, the DACC Library unveiled a permanent exhibit celebrating the Van Doren brothers' Pulitzer Prizes and other significant literary achievements. The exhibit features copies of several of their notable works, offering students and visitors a glimpse into their profound contributions to literature. According to a news release, the DACC Foundation works alongside the college to enhance educational opportunities and services for students, alumni, and the community. Funding for these programs helps the College maintain the "margin of excellence" necessary to meet the evolving needs of the community. The Van Doren Scholarship is currently funded through the efforts of Michael Eberhardt and Tim Smith, who seek additional contributions to reach the $10,000 endowment goal. For more information on contributing to the Van Doren Scholarship Fund, contact Tonya Hill at t.hill@dacc.edu .