McAuley Senior Awarded Kelli Joy O'Laughlin Memorial Scholarship

John and Brenda O’Laughlin, Kelli’s parents and the founders Kelli Joy O'Laughlin Memorial Scholarship, surprised McAuley senior Simone Johnson, of Ashburn, with the award during class on May 12.

Chicago, IL, May 20, 2016 -- A young woman from Chicago’s Ashburn neighborhood got the surprise of her life when she learned she was the recipient of the Kelli Joy O’Laughlin Memorial Scholarship.

Mother McAuley Liberal Arts High School senior Simone Johnson (Ashburn) was awarded a $1,000 college scholarship renewable for four years. The scholarship will be applied towards Simone’s college tuition at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign.

The memorial scholarship was established in memory of Kelli Joy O’Laughlin, a 2011-12 freshma at Lyons Township High School whose life was taken on Oct. 27, 2011, when she interrupted a burglary in her home. Her family wished to keep her memory alive by giving young people opportunities to develop their greatest potential of friendship, kindness, leadership skills, confidence and education.

These were all qualities that Kelli exemplified.

Bob Rabe, chair of McAuley Theology and Faith Formation, feels they found the perfect recipient in Simone.

““Simone Johnson is a compassionate young woman who cares deeply about her academic pursuits and the needs of others,” said Rabe, who has Simone in his class. “She demonstrates immense determination and courage when facing challenges. Her dedication and commitment to classes, service and extracurricular activities is beyond reproach. It is a privilege to teach such a dynamic young woman who exemplifies empathy in her every action and word.”

John and Brenda O’Laughlin, Kelli’s parents and the founders of the foundation, surprised Simone with the award during this class on May 12.