Irene Ballinger & Dr. Jane Ballinger Memorial Scholarship Fund

This scholarship fund, originally known as the Irene Ballinger Memorial Scholarship Fund, was created in 2018 by Michael Ballinger, son of Irene Ballinger. In 2026, Michael changed the fund’s name to the Irene Ballinger & Dr. Jane Ballinger Memorial Scholarship Fund to also honor his sister.

Irene (1929-2018) was a native of LaRue (Ohio) and a 1947 graduate of LaRue High School. She made a career with the Campbell National Bank, rising to the position of branch manager, and National City Bank, LaRue Branch. A

Seven of her children graduated from Elgin High School and Irene served on the Elgin School District Board of Education, ultimately as the Board President. In 1988, she moved to California to be near family. She was an active member of the Rancho Mirage Sunrise Country Club community, where she served as the president of the women’s Putters Group. She enjoyed playing Bridge and leading ladies’ water exercise classes — in song! She was an avid walker, voracious reader, and enjoyed time with her family, eating out, traveling, and attending movies and concerts.

Jane held a PhD from the University of Texas at Austin and taught journalism and public relations at Cal Poly Pomona for more than 25 years; she was a central figure in shaping the school’s Communications Department. She retired in 2023 and held the title of professor emerita at the time of her passing in early 2026. An award-winning educator, Jane was profoundly respected for her academic rigor, professionalism, and dedication to her students, colleagues, and friends.

The Ballinger Scholarship supports students from Elgin High School, especially those committed to pursuing careers in elementary education or healthcare.