2024 HardyStrong Memorial Scholarship Recipients

Lexi graduated from St. Charles East High School in St. Charles, IL. During high school, Lexi served as a Peer Leader, Physical Education Leader, and member of many honors societies.
Lexi was team captain for three years in the St. Charles East Girls Basketball Program. Scoring over 1,000 points in her high school career, Lexi was named the Team's Most Valuable Player. She also was recognized as Academic All-Conference and All-Conference for three years.
Lexi will be attending Indiana University Kokomo and competing on the Women’s Basketball team. She intends to major in business.
"Justin’s eagerness to try something new inspires me to go outside of my comfort zone every once in a while. Life is full of surprises and fascinating things and I believe we are meant to experience all of them. As I head to college next fall I plan on bringing this legacy with me by joining new clubs, meeting new people, and experiencing living on my own for the first time."

Mac graduated from St. Charles East High School in St. Charles, IL. During high school, Mac took on an active role in in Fellowship of Christian Athletes, peer leadership, and physical education leaders.
Mac played quarterback for the St. Charles East Saints for four years. He was a leader on and off the field as team captain and as a part of the leadership council.
Mac will be attending University of Wisconsin-La Crosse and playing football. He intends to major in exercise science to eventually become a firefighter and serve the St. Charles community.
"Justin's life embodied what it means to live with purpose every day, and the legacies of his character are both remarkable and admirable. As I go forward into college and my life, they will be at the forefront of my mind. By striving to live HardyStrong, I can have a meaningful impact on our community."

Jackson graduated from Batavia High School in Batavia, Illinois. During high school, Jackson was committed to service through the Bulldog Moving Company, leading several events for veterans in the community. Jackson also created and coordinated the Bulldog Broadcasting and Media Team.
Jackson competed in varsity football for four years. He was identified early on as a leader, serving as captain of his freshman team, as well.
Jackson will be attending University of Wisconsin-La Crosse and playing football. He intends to major in sports management with dreams of working in the front office of a professional sports organization.
"Despite me living just down river from St. Charles, I never truly knew what HardyStrong meant. I would often see the hashtag and snippets of information here and there, but I never fully understood what it means to be “HardyStrong”. However, over time as I’ve read more and seen the impact Justin Hardy has had on people, I now know that Justin’s life is more than a story of persistence and positivity, but a way to go about improving your own life along with the lives of others."