Luke Schilling, Eastern Hancock High School
Luke is the son of Eric & Natalie Schilling of Wilkinson. He plans to attend Purdue University and major in Agriculture Systems Management.
Luke’s focus is on pursuing a career in the agriculture industry. Growing up in a community deeply connected to agriculture, he developed a passion for the field and a desire to give back to those who shaped his understanding of it. To achieve this, he plans to major in Agriculture Systems Management, to enhance farming efficiency through the improvement of agricultural systems and technology. Luke envisions a future in which he helps develop more effective machinery and processes, addressing the growing global demand for food.
Beyond his academic aspirations, Luke is actively involved in several community service initiatives. In 2022, he founded Season the Day, Inc., a non-profit organization built upon Luke’s small business, Big Doug’s Secret Seasoning. This venture started as a way to create and sell seasoning, with the proceeds going to charitable organizations such as Compassion International and World Vision. Through that work, he has been able to provide significant support to various causes, including clean water projects, food security, and aid for impoverished children around the world. The success of Big Doug’s Seasoning has allowed Luke to donate more than $10,000 to these causes, impacting lives both locally and globally.
Luke’s commitment to service extends to his involvement with the Eastern Hancock Boys Basketball P.A.S.S. Program, where he has led efforts to raise funds for local charities by securing donations for every assist made by the basketball team. This program has enabled him to foster community engagement and support various local causes, raising thousands of dollars in the process.
He has also actively volunteered at the Hancock County Food Pantry since he was seven years old. Over the years, Luke’s role has evolved from distributing food to helping organize and manage inventory. This hands-on experience has taught him the importance of food security and the value of consistent community support.
Another significant initiative Luke has been part of is the Wilkinson Church of Christ’s Service Week, where he has accumulated more than 120 hours of volunteer work to help improve living conditions for local families. Through tasks like landscaping, painting, and general home repair, Luke learned valuable skills while positively impacting the community.
Involvement with the Hancock County Poss-Abilities program has been particularly meaningful, as it allows Luke to share his passion for agriculture by mentoring special needs individuals in livestock care. This experience has shown him the profound impact that inclusive opportunities can have on people’s lives.
In addition to these activities, Luke has held leadership positions in the Future Farmers of America (FFA) and served as Chapter President and District VIII President. His roles in FFA have emphasized not only leadership development but also community service, aligning with a commitment to making a difference in the lives of others.
Luke’s dedication to service is further demonstrated through participation in various events with the Eastern Hancock Athletics and the Hancock County 4-H program, where he has taken on roles that promote teamwork, leadership, and giving back to the community. His efforts have been directed toward enhancing the fairgrounds, supporting charitable organizations, and contributing to local events that bring the community together.
Chase Shinkle, New Palestine High School
Chase is the son of Chris & Sharon Shinkle of New Palestine. He plans to attend Taylor University and major in Computer Science.
Chase’s journey into computer science began nine years ago with a passion for robotics and programming. He quickly advanced in his skills, which led him to take AP Computer Science as a sophomore. When he exhausted the available courses at his school, he advocated to take Harvard’s CS50 G class, further deepening his knowledge. His love for game development stems from its ability to foster creativity, problem-solving, and social interaction. He also envisions using computer science to create technologies like service robots to aid people with disabilities or to develop 3D-printed prosthetic limbs for children, inspired by his grandparents’ health struggles.
He has been volunteering at his church’s preschool Sunday school for eight years, starting when he was in 5th grade. As a leader, he arrives early to set up and leads small groups, guiding the children through Bible stories, activities, and games. Chase’s experience includes being a buddy for children with special needs, helping them feel included and supported. He’s developed a deep bond with the kids he’s mentored, learning to meet their unique needs and finding joy in their progress and connection.
His involvement in Taekwondo spans nine years, with seven of those dedicated to teaching. After earning his black belt, he became an instructor, helping young students develop confidence and focus. He fondly recalls assisting a Spanish-speaking student, using his basic Spanish to help the child succeed. Leading classes and coaching students of all ages, he took pride in watching them grow in skill and discipline. This experience not only improved his martial arts abilities but also honed his leadership and teaching skills.
Chase extended his passion for robotics by mentoring the Intermediate School robotics team. He volunteers once a week and at competitions, guiding building, coding, and problem-solving. His mentorship also includes assisting at the school’s summer robotics camp, where he helps younger students develop an interest in STEM. His dedication to making complex concepts accessible to kids has made a lasting impact on their learning and excitement for robotics.
As part of his church’s youth group leadership team, he’s committed to supporting younger members, much like the older students who once helped him. He provides rides, checks in with them, and ensures they feel included. He also plays an active role in planning events and leading small groups, sharing his experiences, and offering guidance.
Music became another way for Chase to serve, especially after his grandmother’s health declined. He regularly visits her nursing home, playing guitar and singing for the residents, bringing joy and comfort to many. His musical talents also led him to join his youth group’s worship team, where he plays piano during services to help others in their spiritual journey.
Chase’s sense of community extends to international service as well. He participated in a mission trip to Costa Rica, where he led a Vacation Bible School, delivered groceries to remote families, and helped with church improvements. This experience deepened his appreciation for the simple things in life and reinforced his desire to serve those in need.
