The Friends of McHenry County College (MCC) Foundation is proud to announce that David Almanza Medrano has been named the 2025 recipient of the Ervin J. LeCoque University Center Scholarship—an award that provides full tuition for an MCC student to complete their bachelor’s degree through the University Center at MCC in Woodstock.
Almanza Medrano will attend Roosevelt University through the University Center to pursue a bachelor’s degree in business. He was surprised with the scholarship announcement during a small gathering at MCC attended by staff and Louise LeCoque, who established the scholarship in honor of her late husband, Ervin J. LeCoque.
“I love MCC,” said Almanza Medrano, visibly emotional upon learning of the award. “This scholarship means so much to me—I don’t know how to thank you. I’ve been through so much over the past few years, and this will change my life forever.”
Louise LeCoque also expressed her joy in seeing the impact of the scholarship firsthand.
“My husband, Erv, would be so happy right now,” she said. “David is exactly the kind of student he envisioned this scholarship supporting. Erv loved MCC and always dreamed of giving students the chance to earn a bachelor’s degree right here in McHenry County. I wish he were here to see his dream come true.”
A special celebration is being planned to honor David and his family and provide an opportunity for the LeCoque family to formally congratulate him.
Established in 2025, the Ervin J. LeCoque University Center Scholarship awards full tuition to one outstanding MCC graduate each year to complete their bachelor’s degree through the University Center at MCC in Woodstock. The scholarship covers tuition and fees for most programs, supporting students who want to pursue four-year degrees without leaving McHenry County.
The scholarship honors Ervin J. LeCoque, a devoted community leader and advocate for education. His lifelong commitment to educational access and local development inspired this scholarship, which reflects his belief in the transformative power of education.
“Mr. LeCoque believed deeply in continuing education and local opportunity,” said Brian DiBona, Executive Director of the Friends of MCC Foundation. “This scholarship not only eases the financial burden for students—it empowers them to build meaningful futures in our community. His legacy will continue to inspire and uplift generations of MCC graduates.”
Find more information about the University Center at MCC here.