Photo of Craig Clair

Craig Clair Memorial Scholarship

To provide educational resources to graduates of Belvidere High School who demonstrate a strong work ethic and vision for their future.

Winter Scholarship - Closed Closed This scholarship is part of the Winter application cycle. The application is open December 1st to February 1st every year. How to Apply

Eligibility Criteria

Applicant must:

  • Be a graduate of or current high school senior at Belvidere High School in Belvidere, IL.
  • Demonstrate financial need.
     

Specifications

Preference may be given to those who have participated in a sport during high school.

Written Prompt

This scholarship is not awarding in the 2024 - 2025 cycle.

Each CFNIL scholarship is created with a specific purpose in mind. As you complete the application, the system automatically matches you with every scholarship for which you are eligible and will present you with a specific written prompt for each. You're encouraged to craft a unique response to each prompt to show the reviewers why you're the best candidate for that scholarship.

Scholarship Background and Intent

The Craig Robert Clair Memorial Scholarship was established to honor the life and legacy of Craig Robert Clair, a dedicated and hardworking individual who made a significant impact on the people around him. He grew up in humble beginnings, which instilled in him a strong work ethic and a vision for a better future, and he was deeply proud of his roots. 

Craig graduated from Belvidere High School and attended Rock Valley College, and later graduated from Southern University. He was an avid lover of sports, and played all through his school years. He loved and played golf, baseball, basketball, and football, and he would attempt any sport involving his friends for camaraderie. He was also a referee for years, taking the opportunity to mentor young people and took pride in knowing he made a difference in at least one person's life. 

Craig’s passion for business ultimately led him to work locally at Rock Valley Packaging Inc., which was a small box company partially owned by his parents. The minute he walked in the door, he observed and evaluated how best to improve and grow the business, which eventually led to the company's growth and success. Ultimately, Craig became the owner and operator of Rock Valley Packaging Inc. for 20 years, during which time he poured his heart and soul into the company. Craig had the ability to work in an atmosphere leading by example and maintained a family environment where employees were productive and happy. Craig had a lot of compassion and a big heart. He cherished his time working at Rock Valley Packaging, and he left a large hole when he passed. 

Tragically, Craig passed away suddenly on July 12, 2022, at the age of 60. In his memory, the scholarship aims to support Belvidere High School graduates who demonstrate a strong work ethic and a clear vision for their future, much like Craig, did. This scholarship serves as a testament to Craig’s belief in the power of education and hard work, and it seeks to support students who embody these values as they pursue their dreams. 

Craig always believed he could make a difference with someone's life they just needed the right direction and encouragement to become the best they can be. Hopefully, this scholarship will assist you in that endeavor.