Ben's Story

How a seemingly normal kid left behind an extraordinary legacy.

On January 24th, 2015, Benjamin Michael Allison was struck by a car while walking across a crosswalk one morning on the Illinois State University campus. After being rushed to the hospital, the kind and compassionate 20-year-old lost his battle a few days later on January 27th. While losing Ben was devastating, he left behind an impactful legacy that is instilled within his family, friends, and community. Prior to his death, Ben was pursuing a career in professional hockey refereeing while majoring in Communication Studies at ISU.

Ben's parents, Tim & Melissa, created the Ben Allison's Legacy Memorial Scholarship in hopes to give financial support to Crystal Lake South student athletes and USA Hockey referees who emulate Ben's kindness, compassion, drive, and work ethic.

Our Mission

The purpose(s) of Ben Allison's Legacy are to provide annual academic scholarships to a four-year college/university in memory of Ben Allison to one or more qualifying student athletes at Crystal Lake South High School and USA Hockey referees who have demonstrated excellence in, among other areas, academics, extra-curricular activities, and civic/charitable involvement.