Jillian Roberts and Matilde Villalobos Millennium Scholarship Fund
The Jillian Roberts and Matilde Villalobos Memorial Scholarship Fund, established in 2000 by the Tucker County High School Class of 2000, honors the memory of two beloved classmates by awarding scholarships to graduating seniors who demonstrate leadership potential and are pursuing higher education.
TYPE OF FUND: Scholarship
DATE ESTABLISHED: June 2000
PURPOSE: To honor the memory of Jillian Roberts and Matilde Villalobos, members of the Tucker County High School Class of 2000, and to provide assistance for students with leadership qualities who are pursuing post-secondary education.
DISTRIBUTION: The annual scholarship is awarded to a graduating Tucker County High School senior who will attend an accredited college or university and has demonstrated leadership potential in the school and/or community. Recipients are selected by the Board of Directors of TCF, based on the recommendation of the Scholarship Committee.
VARIANCE POWER: If, in the judgment of the TCF Board of Directors, the restrictions and conditions of the fund become unnecessary, incapable of fulfillment, or inconsistent with the charitable needs of the community, the TCF Board of Directors maintains the right to modify the terms of this fund. TCF has exclusive legal control over any contributed assets.
FUNDING: Members of the Tucker County High School Class of 2000 voted unanimously to establish a scholarship in memory of their classmates, Jillian Roberts and Tilde Villalobos. Knowing that a $5,000 minimum was required before scholarships could be awarded, the class used funds raised for a class trip to open the fund and sought public contributions to reach the goal. The Class of 1999 also voted to contribute the remaining funds from their class treasury.
BACKGROUND: Jillian Marie Roberts, daughter of Robert Lindsey and Judith Elaine Myers Roberts of Parsons, was born on March 31, 1982, in Elkins. A quiet yet influential leader, Jill was known for her honesty, dependability, and compassion. She loved animals and dreamed of becoming a nurse. Active and health-conscious, she enjoyed swimming, skating, and dancing. Jill joined the TCHS Cheer Squad her sophomore year, later becoming head cheerleader. Her academic excellence placed her among the top students in her class, earning her the presidency of the National Honor Society and leadership roles, including serving as Junior Class President and Senior Class Secretary.
Matilde Starr Villalobos, born on July 9, 1982, in Elkins, was the daughter of Kathy White Villalobos of Thomas and the late Ramon Villalobos. Outspoken and confident, Tilde was known for her humor, intellect, and sharp insights. She was a talented writer and a dependable friend, offering advice on everything from relationships to ethics. Active in numerous organizations, she served as President of Hi-Y and participated in SADD (Students Against Drunk Driving), Young Christians' Club, Interact, Foreign Language Club, and National Honor Society. She, too, was ranked at the top of her class.
Jill and Tilde lived with joy and optimism, planning for the future while embracing each day. Best friends who did everything together, their lives were tragically cut short in a car accident on September 20, 1999. In their memory, this scholarship carries forward their spirit of leadership, friendship, and ambition, supporting students who share their drive to make a difference.
