Scholarship established in memory of Trevor Wehner

OGLESBY — The parents of Trevor Wehner have established a scholarship in his memory at Illinois Valley Community College.

Wehner, of Sheridan, graduated from IVCC in 2017 before transferring to Northern Illinois University. He was killed Feb. 15, 2019 — his senior year at Northern — in a shooting at an Aurora factory where he was interning.

The Trevor Melvin Wehner Scholarship is being established through the IVCC Foundation by Trevor’s parents, Bonnie Rich and Tom Wehner, both of Sheridan. In addition, an anonymous donor contributed $1,000 to the scholarship fund.

The Wehners will award $1,000 each to a female and male student annually for tuition, books and related expenses. Applicants must demonstrate significant involvement in school activities and community service. The scholarship will be awarded for the first time in September.

Trevor was a 2015 graduate of Serena High School before earning A.S. and A.A. degrees from IVCC. He received a B.S. in Human Resources Management from NIU in 2019.

Unfortunately, the bachelor’s degree was awarded posthumously as his life was tragically taken in a workplace shooting on his first day as an intern. Wehner, just 21, was one of five people killed that day.

Trevor is remembered for a smile that would light up a room and for making friends easily with everyone — young and old alike. He loved sports, especially baseball, and made his mark as a pitcher at IVCC.

“Trevor was a blast … so much fun to be around,” said IVCC baseball coach Jason Goode. “A great sense of humor and very laid back. But he was also very focused and had a plan for what he was going to do with his life.”

Trevor’s mother Bonnie recently told the Chicago Tribune, “I believe we are doing something wonderful in Trevor’s memory. And because of the scholarship foundation, many will be able to pursue their dreams and realize their potential for many years to come, something that was senselessly taken from Trevor.”

Wehner and Rich also told the Tribune they dearly appreciate the warm support they have received.

“We are so thankful for each and every person, the communities, the organizations, and businesses that helped to support and comfort us.”

Contributions to the scholarship can be made to the Trevor Melvin Wehner Scholarship Foundation, P.O. Box 211, Sheridan, IL 60551.