Foundation for Dubuque Public Schools

Not only did Dan put together an inspired portfolio but he won the competition and the accompanying 4-year full-ride scholarship to UNI! Winning that competition gave Dan the direction he needed.

He received a BA degree in art, and he completed a significant portion of his Masters of Fine Arts. Dan passed away unexpectedly during college. His loved ones take comfort in the fact that he was living out his true passion as an artist. Dan always lives on through his paintings, prints, and sculptures that fill the homes of his family and friends.

The Miller family set up the Daniel J Miller $1,500 scholarship to honor a student who has a passion for art and the courage to pursue that passion. The award also recognizes the contributions that the Hempstead art teachers had on Dan’s life.

The award may be used for continuing educational expenses, including tuition, fees, books, room and board, and supplies directly related to the educational program in which the student is enrolled. The scholarship is not renewable.

To be eligible for this scholarship, students must be:

• Entitled for and received direct special education academic services (reading, writing, math), physical or occupational therapy, services for the deaf and hard of hearing, visual impairment, or other health impairment at some point in his/her educational career as documented by an Individualized Education Plan (IEP). Students who received speech and language services only are not eligible.
• Attending a 4-year on-campus college or university (no online programs), or a 2-year program that furthers education in the recipient’s area of chosen interest.
• Preference for students who have financial need.
• Scholarships shall be given to a Dubuque Senior graduate on “even” years, and a Dubuque Hempstead graduate on “odd” years, until eligible disbursements become great enough to support graduates of both schools annually.
• GPA: Not specified
• Recipient Selection: A Scholarship Selection Committee shall be established by Dubuque Senior and Hempstead High Schools to review applications and render recommendations for distribution of awards. Students must apply through the Dubuque Senior and Hempstead guidance offices

Mission

Beyond producing her own work, Allison took pride in seeing aspiring artists grow. She was, at heart, an educator who was always willing to share her skills and passion with fellow artists.

Her teacher, Ms. Sara Hilby, inspired Allison to reach for her utmost potential. She challenged Allison to not only be a great artist but also a great student. Ms. Hilbys name was mentioned weekly if not daily at our house—a name that prompted our joy. We dedicate this endowment to support art education in Allisons honor and to support wonderful art teachers like Ms. Hilby in fostering creativity and developing skills in aspiring artists. Best, Rafic and Holly.

Allison Cress left her mark on the world as a cherished family member, friend, and talented artist. She passed away from her battle with cancer two days after graduating from Hempstead High School. Throughout her battle, Allison remained positive and steal.

Success Story

Two thumbs up! Allison’s trademark gesture was always complemented by a warm smile. I would come to know this gesture all too well as I often returned the gesture in kind. The gesture established a bond that went beyond words. In essence, it expressed Allison’s care, excitement and enthusiasm. You could see these characteristics reflected in her relationships. She had many relationships… She was an artist, a friend, sister, cousin, daughter, granddaughter, niece, and an author. She cherished and maintained her relationships. You did not have to change to fit in. She welcomed everyone with Two Thumbs Up! Allison welcomed me into her life six years ago. Although I am not an artist, she helped me get started on my own masterpiece with her brush strokes of wisdom, care, ingenuity and love. This masterpiece, my life, will be a work in progress until I take my last breath. Allison’s love and spirit will be a primary focal point of that masterpiece. Allison’s passing is not the end… It is the beginning for Allison to have new friends, admirers, and beneficiaries in life; namely those who read her story and follow her ethics of perseverance, positivism and achievement. Allison’s legendary fight with Cancer ended with success as it never touched her spirit. Her spirit and life now reside in our hearts. Life is not merely a function of time. It is a function of appreciation and contentment, love and support, care, grace and faith. Allison’s time with us embraced those qualities. Her life continues on in all that we do. She left us with a beautiful approach to life One to embrace and celebrate with Two Thumbs Up! -Rafic Sinno