Crystal Rodriguez was inspired to study deaf education because of her two older siblings who both have special needs. Earning the Evelyn J. Rex Scholarship in the College of Education helped her financially and also motivated Rodriguez. “Knowing that someone chose to give me this money coming into ISU has made me want to be a better student,” she said.

To learn how you can help support students in pursuing their dreams, visit RedbirdsRising.IllinoisState.edu.