Throughout his childhood, John R. “Jack” Cervantes was a struggling, illegal immigrant. Despite facing adversity throughout his early life, he was able to attend college, become an American citizen, and serve military duty for his country during World War II. Jack truly lived the American dream. The John R. “Jack” Cervantes Memorial Scholarship is administered by Moline’s Mary Little Deere-Fort Armstrong Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution, and fulfills another of John’s dreams to repay those who helped him.
First awarded in 2009, the John R. “Jack” Cervantes Memorial Scholarship of $1,000 is presented each spring to a graduating senior from Moline High School. Applicants must demonstrate financial need and have a commitment to helping others and involvement in a variety of school or community activities.