MOLINE, ILLINOIS (March 4, 2025) — Visit Quad Cities is pleased to announce the 2025 Patty Viverito Emerging Leader Scholarship recipients. Named in honor of Patty Viverito, former senior associate commissioner at the Missouri Valley Conference (MVC) and MVC football commissioner, the program recognizes female student-athletes who demonstrate academic excellence, leadership characteristics and community engagement.
Applicants were tasked with submitting a 500-word essay detailing their leadership experience, volunteerism, and sports participation. With an award of $1,000 per student, the program supports and empowers these young leaders as they transition into their collegiate careers, continuing to make meaningful contributions to their communities.
From a competitive pool of applicants, Ellie Holdorf (above) and Violet Meskan were chosen to receive the 2025 Patty Viverito Emerging Leader Scholarship Award.
"Ellie and Violet were selected this year because they reflect the leadership, passion, and commitment to sports and service that Patty Viverito has inspired,” said Joan Kranovich, Vice President of Business Growth at Visit Quad Cities and Director of Sports QC. “They’re making their mark and influencing the future of the Quad Cities region. We’re proud to celebrate and support these exceptional young leaders.”
Holdorf, a senior at Davenport West High School, is a well-rounded student-athlete and leader, excelling both academically and in extracurricular activities. She maintains a 4.0 GPA while balancing multiple varsity sports, including basketball, volleyball, and tennis, where she has earned All-Conference Honorable Mentions and leadership roles as a team captain.
Beyond athletics, Holdorf is engaged in her school and community, serving as Student Senate President, Senior Class Vice President, and a National Honor Society member. She is also active in the Fellowship of Christian Athletes and has dedicated her time to various service initiatives, including mission trips, youth leadership programs, and mentoring younger students. Her strong work ethic, leadership, and passion for service make her a standout in both academics and athletics.
Meskan, a senior at Sherrard High School, excels both academically and athletically while actively contributing to her community. A dedicated student, she is an Illinois State Scholar, National Merit Scholarship recipient, and a four-year High Honor Roll student. Meskan balances her studies with leadership roles in the National Honor Society, All School Senate, and Fellowship of Christian Athletes. On the court, she is a two-year varsity captain for basketball and has earned multiple athletic honors, including Unanimous First Team All-Conference in the Three Rivers Athletic Conference.
Beyond academics and sports, Meskan dedicates her time to service initiatives such as GiGi’s Playhouse, school fundraisers, and mentoring younger students, exemplifying leadership and a commitment to making a difference.
