Emmette Burrell Land (1911–1998) and Kathleen Pool Land (1915–2011) built a life centered on faith, education, and community in DeKalb. Married in 1939 in Ottumwa, Iowa, they later made DeKalb their permanent home, where they raised their family and became active members of the community. Emmette worked for Phoenix Mutual Life Insurance Company as a farm appraiser, while Kathleen also worked alongside him as his secretary. Together, they modeled dedication, hard work, and service in both their professional and personal lives.

Emmette believed deeply in the value of education and often encouraged young people to “get that degree,” something he had not been able to complete himself. Kathleen shared that belief and expressed her own gifts through decades of service as organist at First Congregational Church, as well as through her involvement in community and cultural organizations. Their home was grounded in faith, music, learning, and strong family values.

Following Emmette’s passing in 1998, Kathleen and their children established the Emmette B. Land Memorial Scholarship Fund at the DeKalb County Community Foundation as a lasting tribute to his legacy. The scholarship benefits a graduating DeKalb High School student who meets the award criteria, reflecting Emmette’s lifelong encouragement of higher education.

After Kathleen’s passing in 2011, the Fund was renamed the Emmette and Kathleen Land Memorial Scholarship Fund, honoring the memory and shared legacy of both parents. Through this enduring scholarship, their commitment to education and opportunity continues to support DeKalb students year after year.