The Kishwaukee College Foundation announced the creation of the Roy T. and Joan Fenstermaker Endowment. The new endowment provides need-based grants to DeKalb County students whose education has been interrupted and who are returning to school to support themselves and their families.
In 2006, Roy (Thomas) and Joan Fenstermaker created a charitable unitrust benefiting several local community organizations, including the Kishwaukee College Foundation, which went into effect upon their passing — Joan in January 2024 and Thomas in February 2026. Heartland Bank and Trust Company facilitated the Fenstermakers’ generous gift.
The Fenstermakers owned and operated their family farm in Sycamore for more than 50 years. They were active in numerous community organizations, and Thomas served on the Kishwaukee College Board of Trustees from 1979 to 1997. During his tenure on the Board, Thomas helped oversee campus expansion projects and the introduction of new academic programs.
“We are grateful to the Fenstermaker family for their generous donation. Their gift shows a commitment to providing students with an opportunity to return to school, improve their lives and build a stronger future for our community,” said Courtney Walz, Executive Director of the Kishwaukee College Foundation.
Learn more about Kishwaukee College Foundation scholarships at kish.edu/scholarships.
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