10/08/2026
For more than four decades, Bill Thomas gave his time, expertise and support to Lincoln Trail College. Now, a new scholarship bearing his name will help carry that commitment forward for generations.
The Bill Thomas Scholarship was established with a $50,000 gift from the Thomas family. The Lincoln Trail College Foundation and First Robinson Savings Bank each contributed an additional $25,000, creating a $100,000 scholarship fund that will begin benefiting students in fall 2027.
“On any board or committee there are those that are engaged and those that are committed. Bill was committed,” LTC Foundation Executive Director Bill Sandiford said.
Thomas served on the LTC Foundation Board for more than 40 years, giving not only financially but also freely sharing his time and expertise as a local attorney.
The scholarship was designed with the same spirit with which Thomas lived his life. It is not restricted to a particular academic program or traditional use, and only the income earned by the fund will be awarded, preserving the principal so the scholarship can continue helping students well into the future.
“Bill left a 40-year impact on our board,” Sandiford said. “It would be a shame to not carry his name and legacy on for at least 40 more years.”
His challenge to others is simple: “Be like Bill and get committed to something.”
Read the full story about Bill Thomas and the scholarship created in his memory on our website.
