The Lincoln Academy of Illinois named Quincy University senior Megan Schill, Grand Forks, N.D., a recipient of the prestigious Lincoln Academy Student Laureate Award for 2026.
The Lincoln Academy Student Laureate program recognizes excellence in curricular and extracurricular activities by seniors from each of Illinois’ four-year, degree-granting colleges and universities. Each fall, The Lincoln Academy presents an outstanding senior from each of these institutions with the Abraham Lincoln Civic Engagement Award.
“We at Quincy University are honored each year to see one of our graduating seniors recognized by the Lincoln Academy for outstanding academic achievement and character,” said Brian McGee, Ph.D., QU president. “Megan Schill, an impressive student and scholar, is our Lincoln Academy honoree for this year. Quincy University is pleased to see Megan receive this much-deserved recognition.”
Schill is an accounting and business analytics double major at QU. In addition to being recognized as a Lincoln Laureate Scholar 2026, Schill is a member of the women’s swim team and holds leadership positions in the Fellowship of Christian Athletes and Women in Business clubs. She served as an orientation leader with Student Engagement for three years.
“Receiving an honor tied to Abraham Lincoln’s legacy is incredibly meaningful because his character is celebrated just as much as his historical contributions,” said Schill. “He teaches us that how we treat people and approach situations matters just as much as what we achieve in any given moment.”
This is the 52nd year The Lincoln Academy of Illinois has celebrated student excellence in leadership and service. Each student received an Abraham Lincoln Civic Engagement Award, a Lincoln medallion, a challenge coin and a $1,000 check at an Oct. 24 ceremony hosted at the Old State Capitol State Historic Site in Springfield, Ill.
“My parents, Mark and Janna Schill, have always encouraged me to bring the best version of myself to every situation. They taught me to approach others with kindness and to actively find ways to support the people around me. I truly would not be who or where I am today without them.,” said Schill.
These are values Schill has used at her time at QU.
“Quincy University has helped me build lasting relationships with so many incredible people,” Schill added. “The campus community constantly encourages me to grow in new ways each day and to find joy in every aspect of my life.”
Founded in 1860 by Franciscan friars, Quincy University is a small Catholic university emphasizing the sciences, liberal arts and the professions. Quincy University offers undergraduate, graduate and adult education programs integrating practical experience and Franciscan values. Faculty and advisors work with students to design customized success plans to help them graduate on time, find their passion and prepare them for life. QU is a member of NCAA Division II for intercollegiate athletics. For more information, please visit www.quincy.edu or contact the Office of Community Relations at (217) 228-5275 or [email protected]. Quincy University. Success by Design.