Marquis Energy Celebrates Another Successful Year of ME3, Investing in Students, Mentors, and Eight IL Valley High Schools
June 17, 2026
As another school semester comes to a close, Marquis Energy is proud to celebrate the continued success of its Marquis Energy Energizing Education (ME3) Student Mentoring Program, a program that helps students achieve their academic goals while building meaningful and productive relationships with mentors.
This semester, students across participating school districts worked alongside dedicated volunteer mentors to set goals, improve academic performance, strengthen attendance, build confidence, and develop habits that will serve them long after graduation.
Since launching at Putnam County High School in 2016, the ME3 Program has expanded to serve over 400 students in eight area high schools, including Putnam County, DePue, Henry-Senachwine, Princeton, Bureau Valley, Hall, LaSalle-Peru, and La Moille. What began as a local mentoring effort has grown into one of the largest private educational support programs of its kind.
Today, Marquis has invested more than $2.8 million into the ME3 Program and now contributes more than $750,000 annually to support students, mentors, and schools throughout the Illinois Valley.
“ME3 is about much more than grades,” said Drew Schlumpf, Director of Community Engagement at Marquis. “It’s about helping young people recognize their potential, build confidence, and understand that their community believes in them. The success of this program is a direct reflection of the incredible students, educators, and volunteer mentors who dedicate their time and energy to making a difference.”
The year-long program pairs students with adult mentors who meet regularly throughout each semester. Students establish two goals, one measurable academic goal and one supporting personal or behavioral goal, and work closely with their mentors to achieve them. The program rewards effort, growth, and commitment while providing additional encouragement and accountability. At the heart of the program are the mentors who meet with their mentees every week.
“None of this would be possible without our mentors,” Drew added. “These individuals are investing in the next generation of our communities, one student at a time. They listen, encourage, challenge, and celebrate successes alongside their students. Their impact extends far beyond the classroom, and we are incredibly grateful for their commitment.”
Marquis also recognizes the partnership of local school administrators, teachers, counselors, and families who work together to identify students who can benefit from additional support and encouragement. As ME3 enters its tenth year, the program remains focused on its original mission: helping students become more engaged, productive, and successful members of their schools and communities.
“Our communities are strongest when our young people have opportunities to succeed,” Drew said. “At Marquis, we believe investing in students is one of the most important investments we can make. The future of rural Illinois depends on the next generation, and we are proud to play a small role in helping them reach their full potential.”
Beyond its commitment to producing renewable fuels, Marquis remains deeply invested in the communities where its employees live, work, and raise their families. Through programs like ME3, Marquis continues to support educational opportunities, community development, and the future of our local communities.