WIU School of Agriculture Receives Gift to Support Women in Agriculture

The School of Agriculture at Western Illinois University (WIU) has recently been given a generous gift in the form of an endowed scholarship. This meaningful contribution comes from Taylor and Lorraine Steinberg, a devoted couple who are proud alumni of WIU. The couple first crossed paths at the university in 1962 while pursuing their degrees in Agriculture and Communication.

The Steinberg Endowment Scholarship aims to provide support to undergraduate students studying agriculture at WIU, with a particular focus on empowering female students in the field. A married couple, Lorraine and Taylor, who have enjoyed fulfilling careers, expressed their desire to give back to the organizations that have been instrumental in their lives.

Lorraine, originally from Brooklyn but raised in the Midwest, had a passion for teaching before becoming a full-time mother. She later returned to the classroom after opening a dance studio and acquiring a master's degree in Educational Technology. Her dedication extended to working with the Regional Office of Education in West Central Illinois, where she played an integral role in assisting school districts with grants, incorporating technology into classrooms, and fostering educational development.

Taylor's roots lie on a family farm near Belleview, Illinois, where he learned the value of hard work from an early age. Alongside his work in Ag Mechanics at Steinberg Farms, he has actively contributed to the success of future generations of farmers, with his daughter, son, and grandchildren set to carry on the family legacy.

The Steinbergs' gift represents their lifelong commitment to helping others and serving their community. They strongly believe in the importance of education and lifelong learning, encouraging WIU students to continuously expand their knowledge and seize opportunities for personal growth. Their exceptional contribution and unwavering commitment serve as a remarkable source of inspiration for students and the wider WIU community.

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