Be K.O.R.I.
Kori Konopka Memorial Scholarship
The “Be K.O.R.I.” Memorial Scholarship celebrates the vibrant life and enduring legacy of Kori Konopka, a young woman who lived with heart, humor, and hope. Named in her honor, “Be K.O.R.I.” reminds us to Be Kind, Be Optimistic, Be Resilient, and Be Impactful – qualities Kori lived by and shared generously with others.
Kori was a force of nature – always able to live life fully in the present moment. She enjoyed being the center of attention and making people laugh! Though she made mistakes like anyone else, she owned them and learned from them. She believed in herself to be better, to do better, and she believed just as fiercely in the potential of those around her.
Kori was a leader – loyal and driven. She pushed her teammates, staff, and friends to see all they were capable of, challenging them to rise to their best selves. Her work ethic was unmatched and her commitment to others was rooted in love and belief. Kori’s impact was seen in the small daily moments – a call or kind word, a shared laugh, a helping hand. Kori was authentic and unforgettable.
Her resilience in the face of pancreatic cancer was matched only by the courage, grace, and hope with which she carried herself throughout the fight. Kori truly believed she would beat it, and it inspired everyone around her.
The “Be K.O.R.I.” Scholarship is more than an annual award of financial support – it’s a call to live boldly, love deeply, and believe in the power of kindness, optimism, resilience, and impact.
About Kori
Kori Konopka passed away on April 29th, 2025 from Stage 4 Pancreatic Cancer. She was 54 years old. Kori’s cancer was aggressive and although strides and advancements have been made with Pancreatic Cancer Research, she only lived 105 days from diagnosis.
A proud graduate and standout athlete of Westmont High School in Westmont, Illinois, Kori held many school records as a Girls Varsity Basketball Player including all-time leading scorer with 1,529 points and rebounder with 662, as well as single-game scorer with 36 points. A reflection of her talent, dedication, and leadership, this scholarship honors Kori’s legacy by supporting female athletes from her alma-mater who embody her spirit and strive to make a meaningful impact on others.
Kori had such a BIG presence and made it a point to be present in everything she did! Kori grew up in Westmont, Illinois and while working at Nordstroms relocated to Ohio and then to Wisconsin. Kori left Nordstroms but remained in the Milwaukee area and in the restaurant industry for the last 15 years. Kori’s love of basketball never diminished and the Women’s NCAA Tournament was her favorite time of the sport! I will always have the memories of Kori watching LSU with her basketball next to her and know that those deep roots to teamwork and offense and defense got her through and helped her navigate her cancer treatment.
We promised that we would find a way to carry on her legacy in a way that would make her proud and that is the Kori Konopka “Be K.O.R.I.” Memorial Scholarship! Please help support the fund by giving at information provided below.
The scholarship application will be available at Westmont High School, Westmont, Illinois. All senior female athletes are eligible to submit an application. The winner will be announced at the Athletics Award Ceremony.
Scholarship Recipients
2026 – Westmont High School, Jazlene Mendoza
I knew Kori since she was 16. She had a huge personality and an even bigger heart. Kori was hilarious storyteller. She brightened every family gathering, what a sense of humor she had! She was a very hard worker, from her basketball playing days to her career in restaurant management. Most of all, I will remember Kori for her capacity to love. Whenever we parted, she would always tell me “I love you!” She was a bright shining light and her passing leaves a huge hole in our family.
Fund Administrators
- Kelly Konopka Phillip
Donate Two Ways
By Mail:
Kori Konopka “Be K.O.R.I.” Memoriał Scholarship
CharitySmith Nonprofit Foundation
13100 Filly Lane | Truckee, CA | 96161
Use a credit card by clicking the link below.