Monmouth College Students Benefit from Yahnke Internship Fund

The Forgottonia Times™ Report

Internships often serve as pivotal experiences where students not only build resumes but also discover passions and develop professional confidence. At Monmouth College, the Yahnke Business and Economics Endowed Internships Fund—established through the generosity of Dick ’66 and Lee Yahnke—helps make these opportunities possible by covering costs such as housing, commuting, and living expenses.

This past summer, four Monmouth students benefited from the Yahnke Fund: Alana Robertson, Andrew Johnson, McKealey Klokkenga, and Warren Reed. For Robertson, the support was especially impactful since her internship at Ronald McDonald House Charities of Central Illinois was unpaid.

As a marketing and operations intern in Peoria, Robertson focused on promoting the nonprofit’s day program for families with hospitalized children. She crafted official documents, designed business cards, developed social media content, and built connections with community organizations. While she found pride in seeing her work shared online, the most meaningful moments came from interacting directly with families and contributing to community outreach.

The internship also stretched her professionally. In a small but busy office, Robertson often had to make independent decisions, a challenge that ultimately boosted her confidence. The experience solidified her career interests in marketing, brand development, and inter-business communications.

“I learned so much about myself,” Robertson said. “I love interacting with others and building relationships. I felt fulfilled every time I finished work for the day.”

Other students echoed similar sentiments about the Yahnke Fund’s importance. Johnson gained clarity about his passion for sales at Flexsteel Industries, while Klokkenga discovered her love for communications work on campus. All agreed the funding not only removed financial barriers but also opened doors to growth, confidence, and career clarity.

Thanks to the Yahnkes’ generosity, Monmouth students like Robertson are empowered to pursue transformative opportunities that will shape their futures long after graduation.