Donate to Scholarships
Support GovState students by donating to your interest by exploring more information about each scholarship below.
Addiction Studies Alumni Club Scholarship
GovState's College of Health and Human Services' Addiction Studies and Behavioral Health Program present a series of subsidized training programs focused on peer recovery support /mentoring as part of a recovery-oriented system of care for individuals and families dealing with alcohol, substance use, and/or mental health disorders.
The Addiction Studies Alumni Club is committed to the field of recovery. The group holds workshops throughout the year to raise funds for a scholarship for Addiction Studies students.
Support the Addiction Studies Alumni Club Scholarship with your donation today!
ALAS Student Ambassador Scholarship
This scholarship was established in 2022 by the Governors State University Foundation, the Association of Latin American Students (ALAS) executive board, and the organization’s co-advisors to empower future generations of student leaders. The scholarship also honors Melinda Arce-Gudino, whose leadership and commitment as a co-advisor during that time were instrumental in launching this initiative. Its goal is to ensure a sustainable pipeline of leaders who will continue championing the mission of ALAS at Governors State University.
ALAS Mission:
"The Association of Latin American Students (ALAS) is a student club dedicated to creating a welcoming and nurturing environment for Latinx students and allies interested in learning more about Latin cultures. Our club strives to build an inclusive community among our student population, creating leadership and professional development opportunities. We also aim to provide mentorship and increase knowledge of Latin cultures within the GovState community."
Alumni Association honoring Rosemary Hulett Scholarship
The Alumni Association Board of Directors created the Alumni Association Endowed Scholarship in 2012 to support GovState's future and current students. It was named after Rosemary Hulett to honor her dedication and service to the university, alumni & students.
American Logistics Association Endowed Scholarship
American Logistics Association Endowed Scholarship was established in 1978 by the Midwest Chapter of the American Logistics Association to support student veterans, students who are federal / state civil service employees or students whose parent fits in one of the previous categories. The American Logistics Association intention was to encourage students in those affinity areas to pursue a career in logistics related field.
Annie Lawrence Nursing Scholarship
At the GovState Foundation, we work to connect deserving students with the funds they need to successfully complete their education. Your donation to this scholarship can make the difference between frustration and confidence as they juggle competing responsibilities and attempt to complete their degree to move forward in a rewarding and successful career.
Bonnie Gregg Memorial Counseling Scholarship
Bonnie Gregg was a dedicated member of GovState as both an alumnus and employee. During her tenure, she won an Excellence Award for creating programs and services, including an advising syllabus, a counseling peer mentor program, and study plan sessions that brought students in for group advising. She also won the prestigious 2017 Dr. Gerald C. Baysore Award in honor of GSU’s previous Associate Vice President of Academic Affairs. It is the highest honor GovState bestows on employees. Her dedication was unfailing to GovState students.
Chuck Klaas Memorial Scholarship
This scholarship was established in memory of Chuck Klaas by his mother, Lucille Klaas, in 2016. Chuck was an alum of Governors State University, receiving his Master’s Degree in Broadcast Communications. He was the TV program operations coordinator for the Department of Digital Learning and Media Design at Governors State University.
College of Business Scholarship
Established by the College's Student Advisory Board and funded through a variety of student-sponsored fundraising activities. The scholarship was designed to both stimulate and reward academic excellence in College of Business students who demonstrate a commitment to the college and a promise of leadership.
David & Barbara Barr Endowed Scholarship
David Barr has been a member of the GovState Foundation since 1976, serving as president from 1994 to 1997 and in other executive capacities before and since then. An attorney with a practice in Matteson, he has been active in public school affairs since 1971, serving as a member and in a leadership role on the Boards of Education for both Matteson District 162 and Rich Township High School District 227. This scholarship was established in his honor at the end of his term as president of the GovState Foundation in 1997. It is offered to students who are already teaching or are training to become teachers, especially those acquiring special skills to serve in schools with diverse student populations.
David Bernstein English Scholarship
Language – the shades and shapes of words, the choices made, the truths touched – was central to the life of David Bernstein. He grew up in the southern suburbs, was awarded the state English award when he graduate from high school, attended Yale University as a Yale National Scholar until illness forced his withdrawal, and was graduate from Roosevelt University with its Phelan Fellowship for graduate study. His literary interest focused on critic and poetry; he was also a talented pianist and a Chicago Cubs fan. David died in 1972 at the age of 24; his parents endowed this scholarship in his honor.
Donald and Helen Morrison Scholarship
As a young man, Don Morrison planned to be a doctor. He attended community college after graduating from high school, then enrolled at a college in Iowa to further pursue his medical studies. Three days after starting classes, he was drafted and left college to serve his country in World War II. After the war he worked with his older brother, Will, in the family’s furniture business. The brothers worked together for nearly a half century, first at Morrison’s Furniture in Harvey, and then establishing Morrison’s Ethan Allen Furniture, in Olympia Fields. They later opened a second store in Orland Park.
Don has never forgotten the importance of higher education. He established the Donald and Helen Morrison Scholarship in Business at Governors State University, which benefits deserving students in the College of Business and Public Administration. “I am glad that I can help them to achieve a college degree,” Don said. “They work hard and it’s good to know the scholarship can assist them in reaching their goal, and succeeding in life.”
Donald Dolan Business Scholarship
Donald Dolan established this scholarship to offer financial assistance to a qualified student who could not continue his education without it. The student must intend to pursue a career in area of industrial management or manufacturing and intend to manage an operation or a company that produces a specific product or item.
Donald W. Hansen Memorial Scholarship
"One of the best friends GovState will ever have."
These are the words used time and again to describe Donald Hansen, who died in June, 1985 after a long illness. Don Hansen earned two degrees in public service from GovState, a B.A. in 1976 and an M.A. in 1980. He was director of the GSU Alumni Association for four years and its president from 1982 to 1884. Don was employed at GovState as a coordinator of continuing education from 1979 until his death. It is not surprising that the GovState Alumni Association Board of Directors voted unanimously at its October, 1985 meeting to establish the "Donald W. Hansen Memorial Endowed Scholarship."
Dr. Ana C. Kong Memorial Scholarship
The family of Dr. Ana C. Kong has generously endowed a scholarship in memory of Dr. Ana C. Kong who passed away in June 2022.
Ana was born in Manila, Philippines on August 9, 1940, the daughter of Wong Choon and Lee Shi. She graduated from the Far Eastern University in Manila in 1962 with a Bachelor of Science degree in Commerce, Magna Cum Laude. She came to the United States in 1967 and earned a Master of Science and Ph. D. in Communication Science from the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign. She met her husband, Pedro, at the University where he was obtaining his Master of Science and Ph. D. in Mechanical Engineering. They married in Manila in 1970.
After graduating, Ana and Pedro moved to the Chicagoland area and settled in Homewood with their three children. Ana joined the faculty at Governors State University in 1972 and became a tenured professor in the Communications Department in 1977. Following retirement, she was awarded the title of Faculty Professor Emeritus by GovState’s Board of Trustees in 2007. During her 34-year career at GovState, she received many recognitions and awards from students and faculty. She was a highly regarded professor and advisor.
Dr. Blondean Davis Scholarship
Dr. Blondean Y. Davis is a 21st century educator and visionary whose mustard seed faith that began 13 years ago as a dream has grown into a nationally recognized college preparatory high school. Dr. Davis, CEO and founder of the Southland College Preparatory Charter High School, Richton Park, Illinois, and Superintendent of Matteson School District 162, is recognized nationally as an educational leader who believes that every child has a right to learn and can achieve the skills needed for success.
Dr. Cheryl F. Green Scholarship for Societal Impact
Dr. Cheryl F. Green became the 6th president of Governors State University in 2020. A passionate educator and administrator, Green believes fiercely in the power of education to change lives. Throughout her career, she has pioneered the innovation of academic enrichment opportunities and student success initiatives that promote increased retention and graduation rates for first generation and non-traditional college students. Green’s commitment to making a difference is evidenced by her service to the community, which spans the United States and has included serving on 12 different advisory boards or boards of directors. Public policy, educational leadership, community transformation and leadership development are at the core of Dr. Green’s career.
Dr. Colleen Sexton Scholarship
This Award was established upon Colleen Sexton’s retirement from Governors State University in the fall of 2022, to honor her dedicated service to the students and university.
Dr. Curtis and Gina Crawford Business Leadership Scholarship
Dr. and Mrs. Crawford established this scholarship early in 2000 to provide financial assistance to students with the ability and drive to achieve intellectual excellence. They are especially interested in encouraging high performing, and high potential students, with strong mental capacity, who have a desire to achieve a leadership role in a business.
This scholarship is intended to reward motivated individuals whose education will help them to make a difference in the world.
Dr. Curtis J. And Mrs. Gina Crawford Bowling Scholarship
This scholarship was created by Dr. Curtis and Mrs. Gina Crawford to help students on the GSU Bowling team.
Dr. Daniel Bernd English Literature Scholarship
In 1970 Dr. Daniel Bernd joined the GovState staff as Director of Academic Development. Later he served as Assistant Dean of the College of Cultural Studies and was Coordinator of the Liberal Education Center, and taught English courses.
Dr. Bernd received a scholarship to the University of Nebraska and he always dreamed of being able to establish a scholarship for English Literature. In 1994 after Dr. Patterson’s Death, Mrs. Bernd Patterson fulfilled Dr. Bernd’s dream by establishing a scholarship in his memory.
This scholarship was established to honor the memory of Professor Daniel Bernd. The purpose of this award is to encourage and recognize scholarly appreciation and understanding of English Literature among undergraduate English majors.
Dr. Dianna Galante Mathematics Student Teaching Scholarship
Support from the Dr. Dianna Galante Mathematics Student Teaching Scholarship not only improves the educational experience our students receive, but for many, it makes their education possible.
Dr. Diane Kjos Scholarship
This Scholarship was established in 2022 by Diane’s daughter Kathrin upon her mother’s passing, and she agreed that the below comments from one of Dr. Kjos’s former students are a perfect summary of her mother in all her roles: professor, friend, parent and grandmother.
Diane Kjos is hard to describe. She was compassionate and caring. She was tough and assertive, yet she nurtured like no other. She demonstrated true grit. She listened. She held high standards; yet she understood the limitations of life circumstances that drained the resources of individuals. She worked hard. She self-reflected. She listened and listened some more. She spoke with wisdom at the time an individual was ready to hear. She exceeded the expectations of others and the social norms of her generation. She gave back. She had the wisdom to recognize raw potential and she helped to clear the path for that potential to bloom, grow and play forward opportunity. She grew up the grown-ups; she helped them dream, define, and develop their hopes into reality. She mentored, modeled, and inspired these qualities.
The Diane Kjos scholarship will help continue her legacy in the characteristics that she exuded. It will be awarded to those who dare to dream with true grit. To all those students who nurture yet drill on. To those who demonstrate raw potential but who may not fit the parameters traditionally defined standards.
The recipients of this scholarship, in her honor, will demonstrate the characteristics she modeled. In this way she will continue to mentor, model, and nurture those who will carry forward her spirit.
Dr. Keith W. Smith Memorial Scholarship
Dr. Keith Smith was the founding administrative vice president of the Governors State University. It was he who managed the process which produced the campus and the university building itself. The scholarship was created to support students who wish to work in higher education (teaching, research, administration, etc.
Dr. Lorri Glass Generating Hope Award
The Dr. Lorri Glass Generating Hope Award was the legacy of Jerry Davis EL, one of the founding members of Generating Hope, a student-led initiative at Governors State University. Generating Hope’s mission is to promote awareness of the collateral consequences of mass incarceration and to advocate to dismantle these barriers. Generating Hope provides support and resources for those impacted and works diligently to assist returning citizens in accessing higher education.
The Generating Hope scholarship is intended to provide the awardee with financial assistance, mentoring and professional development to support their educational and career goals.
Dr. Lowell Goldberg Health and Community Service Scholarship
Dr. Goldberg practiced medicine in the southern suburbs for 30 years until his death in 1986 and his widow has been involved in community service both personally and professionally. This award which was established by his wife Beverly Goldberg, honors Dr. Goldberg’s memory by recognizing a GSU student who demonstrates an exceptional committed to health or community service.
Dr. Terry Allison Scholarship for the College of Arts and Sciences
Dr. Allison is an active author, editor, and grant writer. He played a lead role in the founding of the Quinceañiera Project, which motivates fifteen-year-old Latina students to complete high school and attend California State University, San Marcos. He also authored the Title IIIA grant proposal that created health and human services programs at San Marcos and launched a new MFA in Television, Film, and Theatre at Cal State LA.
Dr. W. Prince and Elsie McLemore Endowed Scholarship for Physical Therapy
Dr. Prince McLemore is a retired professor of the university. He served as chairperson of the Division of Education. He taught social studies and social foundations of education. Dr. Prince McLemore and wife Elsie established this scholarship through the Alumni Association to support students majoring in physical therapy.
Dr. W. Prince and Elsie McLemore Endowed Tuition Scholarship for Elementary and Physical Education Majors
Dr. Prince McLemore is a retired professor of the university. He served as chairperson of the Division of Education. He taught social studies and social foundations of education. Dr. Prince McLemore and wife Elsie established this scholarship through the Alumni Association to support students majoring in elementary and physical education.
Dr. William E. Engbretson Scholarship in Art and Sculpture
Dr. Engbretson, the founding president of Govstate, was a key figure in the university’s establishment of the now internationally renowned Nathan Manilow Sculpture Park. This award, first established by Govstate students, is given to a Govstate sculpture or art student who demonstrates substantial promise.
Drs. Lisa & Ming Chang Math Endowed Scholarship
The purpose of the Drs. Lisa and Ming Chang endowment fund is to provide financial assistance to students who are committed to teaching mathematics in elementary or secondary school, especially in school districts that serve underrepresented students.
Dual Degree Program Scholarship
Founded by Dr. Linda Uzureau, previous Assistant to the President for Community College Partnerships at Governors State University, and past Vice President of Academic Affairs at Prairie State College. This award was established to encourage continued partnership between Prairie State College and Governors State University’s Dual Degree Program. This award is an opportunity for students to continue beyond their associate degree and complete their bachelor’s degree.
Earthrise Rise Scholarship
Earthrise Energy, PBLLC, is an independent power producer with a mission to reduce power sector greenhouse gas emissions faster than ever before. The company acquires, owns, and operates legacy fossil fuel assets and repurposes the transmission infrastructure for renewable energy development projects, bringing them online faster than typical greenfield renewable energy projects.
Elizabeth Cada Occupational Therapy Scholarship
This scholarship was established in 2021 to honor Dr. Elizabeth (Beth) A. Cada’s dedication and service within the College of Health and Human Services and as Provost at Governors State University. Beth began her twenty-five-year career at GSU in 1996 as a University Professor charged with developing an Occupational Therapy program. Over the years she rose through the ranks to full professor and Chair of the Department of Occupational Therapy.
In 2018 Beth was named Provost. A lasting legacy will be her leadership in the development of the university’s next Strategic Plan Strategy 2025. Also, under her leadership GSU was recognized for continued accreditation through 2029 with the Higher Learning Commission.
Beth’s leadership and passion for the field of Occupational Therapy is also recognized by her colleagues across the state through her service on the Chicago Area Council of Occupational Therapy Directors, and across the nation as past president of the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy (NBCOT). Additionally, Beth's leadership is recognized by the American Occupational Therapy Association (AOTA) in her capacity as an accreditation review chair for the Accreditation Council for Occupational Therapy Education (ACOTE).
Beth’s dedication to the field of Occupational Therapy was reflected in her professional private practice for 39 years with Pediatric Rehabilitation Services. Her service and leadership at the program, department, college, university, state, and national level are embodied in this lasting legacy.
Employee Excellence Scholarship honoring Dr. Shannon Dermer
Dr. Shannon B. Dermer has a doctorate in Marriage and Family Therapy and a bachelors and masters in psychology. She has been in higher education and a counselor educator for over 20 years. She specializes in working with couples and training clinicians to be comfortable discussing sexual issues with clients.
Dr. Dermer has served as a faculty member, program coordinator, Chair, and Dean. Currently she is a Professor and Dean of the College of Education at Governors State University. She stays active in the field as a CACREP site visitor, advising doctoral students, publishing, presenting, creating training videos, and writing grants. She has also edited two sets of encyclopedias--one on marital/couple/family counseling and one on multicultural counseling, social justice, and advocacy.
Faculty Senate Student Scholarship
In 2018 the Faculty Senate created the Faculty Senate Student Scholarship to help Govstate students. Faculty have contributed and supported this scholarship and it has now reached endowment status so the fund will support providing students scholarships in perpetuity.
Finish What You Started Scholarship
Angela (Angie) Sebastian is the former CEO of Levenfeld Pearlstein, LLC, a Chicago-based law firm, where she worked for more than 20 years. When she retired in 2022, Levenfeld Pearlstein honored her pioneering leadership by initiating this scholarship fund.
Angie earned a B.S. in Accountancy from Governors State University when she was 30 years old. Back then, the welcome banner in the GovState halls invited students to “Finish What You Started”. Angie’s intention with this scholarship is to support adult learners who have experienced interruptions or setbacks during their initial college experience. She would like to support students in their mission to finish what they started.
After graduating, Angie went on to become a CPA, earned a Master of Business Administration with Distinction, and became a Certified Leadership Coach. She is an exemplar of a life-long learner and believes in the power of education to break the cycle of poverty. Angie has served as an advisor to the Governors State University College of Business and was appointed by the Governor of the State of Illinois to serve as a GovState Trustee.
Angie’s service and leadership at LP and at Governors State University are embodied in this legacy.
Her personal motto is to Lead Where You Are. If you are awarded this scholarship and it helps you to achieve your goal of obtaining a college degree, Angie asks that when you are able to do so in the future, offer support to help another to finish what they started.
Francisco Montalvo Jr. Endowed Scholarship
Francisco Montalvo Jr. was a well-recognized leader among his peers and in the communities where he lived and worked. An advocate for Latino rights and a community activist, he was previously on the faculty and a labor education specialist for the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. Mr. Montalvo was a past member and past president of Oil, Chemical and Atomic Workers International Union, AFL-CIO Local 7-765; as past member of the Hispanic Advisory Council for the Illinois Secretary of State, and was a member of many organizations including the American Federation of Teachers, Local American Labor Council; and many more. Up until his passing in 2014 Mr. Montalvo continued supporting and advocating for Latino and union labor rights.
George J. Bernstein STEM Disciplines Endowed Scholarship
George J. Bernstein was the second son of an immigrant family, born in New Haven, Connecticut in 1917. At age sixteen, he received a competitively awarded full scholarship to Yale University, graduating in 1937. He later served in the military, including time with the Manhattan Project at Los Alamos, New Mexico. Post-war, he married the former Jean Collier and fathered four children, living largely in Park Forest. For over three decades, he worked on a range of matters as a research chemist at Argonne National Laboratory. As a researcher, he was noted for his belief that any problem, once thoroughly understood, was fairly simple to solve. As a person, he was noted for his humor. He died in 2011, aged 94. This fund is established in tribute to his work as a chemist and his talents as a father.
Global Service Learning Study Abroad Award
GovState Study Abroad is dedicated to creating opportunities for students who wish to study in another country and increase their level of intercultural competence and global citizenship. We are committed to serving GovState students by providing partnerships with high quality and well-coordinated programs that match the interest of each individual student. We want students to have the opportunity to achieve and develop important learning adventures through an international educational experience.
Great Lakes Bank Endowed Scholarship
The Great Lakes Bank Scholarship was established in 2007 by the Great Lakes Bank Foundation to aid students in their service area.
Greer Program Scholarship
The Greer Scholars Program at Governors State University aims to close the equity gap in STEM professions by financially and academically supporting students from racial and ethnic groups currently underrepresented in STEM and who demonstrate financial need.
Gregory Hand Scholarship
The most important man in a girl's life is her father. Sadly, some girls aren't lucky enough to have a father in their lives because they lost him to the disease of addiction.
The Gregory J. Hand Addiction Recovery Scholarship, created in 2017, works to reverse this story. This scholarship was created by Jamelia Hand, who lost her father to addictions in 2010. Jamelia is the past President of the Addiction Studies Club and a member of the Alumni Association.
Harry P. McHale Memorial Scholarship
Harry P. McHale returned to the teaching profession after many successful years in private industry. At the age of 37, he returned to school and earned his M.S. in Mathematics. This scholarship is to help adult learners who are interested in mathematics.
Herbert H. and Monica B. Allen STEM Scholarship
Herbert & Monica Allen established this scholarship to provide financial assistance to African-American students majoring in STEM disciplines and empower them to achieve intellectual excellence. This scholarship is intended to reward motivated individuals whose education will help them to make a difference in the world. Herbert serves on the Executive Advisory Council.
Jackie McKethen Scholarship For LGBTQIA Students
Jackie McKethen Scholarship For LGBTQIA Students is the creation of Jackie McKethen to support students that are part of the LGBTQIA community or have shown substantial support for the community.
James and Helen Hassett and Mary Ann Faitz Endowed Scholarship in Nursing
This scholarship was created by Mike Hassett, a retired long-time employee in the Facilities Development and Management Department. He, and other family members, established the scholarship to honor his parents, James and Helen Hassett, and his sister, Mary Ann Faitz, who succumbed to breast cancer in 1993 at the age of 41.
The Hassett Family has a long and proud history in medicine. The late Helen Hassett worked for many years coordinating Medical Records in several Chicago-area hospitals. Mary Ann worked as a nurse at Rush University Medical Center. Other siblings and family members have established careers in nursing, hospital social work, pharmaceutical sales, as well as Occupational, Speech and Physical Therapy professionals. The Hassett family hopes to continue to honor and support this tradition by awarding the James and Helen Hassett and Mary Ann Faitz Endowed Scholarship in Nursing to students in the College of Health Professions.
Jassac Charitable Foundation Scholarship Honoring Lorine S. Samuels
The Jassac Charitable Foundation primary purpose is to support programs in the Southland area of Chicago, Illinois that enhance cultural, educational and economical needs of the community, enrich the lives of youth through mentoring and tutoring programs and promote community awareness on mental and physical health concerns. The organization began as a committee’s responsible for selecting locations to recommend to the Joliet Area South Suburban Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. to house community programs and projects.
The Jassac Charitable Foundation Scholarship was established to honor fellow Delta Sigma Theta Sorority sister, Lorine S. Samuels.
Jennifer Artis Scholarship
Jennifer Artis lived her life devoted to addressing health disparities, community health development and advocacy, and bringing quality healthcare to economically disadvantaged communities in the South Suburbs. Central to that work was coordinating community and faith-based organizations and residents to develop a regional health care system to address the fragmentation of health care in the southern suburbs.
Josephine Elizabeth Seaton Franklin Foundation (JESFF) Scholarship
The Josephine Elizabeth Seaton Franklin Foundation (JESFF) Inc. was founded in 1995 and is a nonprofit 501 (c)(3) charitable organization. For nearly 30 years, the foundation has supported education, specifically providing scholarship support, as well as addressing the various needs of community members in the Chicago south suburbs.
Founded by a team of dedicated driven women leaders, the Foundation seeks to partner with businesses and organizations that share the vision of enhancing student advocacy, economic development, and health opportunities within the community.
The Josephine Elizabeth Seaton Franklin Foundation, Incorporated will expand scholarship opportunities and enhance the cultural, social, and intellectual potential of the South Suburban Chicago Community.
Joyce E. Gordon Scholarship in Public Administration
Joyce Gordon was employed in GovState's purchasing office from 1972 until her death in 1992, rising from her initial clerical role to her position as assistant director of purchases. Throughout that time she demonstrated her commitment to service to the university community; she cheerfully assisted countless GSUers through the complications of the purchasing process, serving on the Ford Heights School District No. 169 Board of Education, as Ford Heights village clerk, and as a volunteer to a variety of organizations both in the university and in her community. At the same time, she completed her Bachelor’s degree and raised six children. Winners of this scholarship will be those whose paths of service follow that taken by Joyce Gordon.
Levilyn Chriss Memorial Scholarship in Film
Levilyn Chriss received her master’s in fine arts from Govstate in 2016. She inspired many as a social conscience filmmaker. On Govstate’s film path, she worked for more than a year on “The Louisiana Project,” her thesis documentary about the personal repercussions of her father’s death in Katrina. Feeling defeated by the unaffordable costs of adding network footage, everything changed one night in 2015, when she met Gordon Quinn of Kartemquin Films during his visit to Govstate.
He enlightened her regarding new rules of Fair Uses that he helped to author, which facilitate the incorporation of news footage into documentaries for personal and transformative purposes. With his advice, she went on to win the Best Documentary prize at the 2018 Philadelphia Independent Film Awards.
Lorraine Fontana Endowed Memorial Scholarship
Lorraine Fontana was a graduate of the College of Business and Public Administration with a major in MIS. Lorraine became a member of the Alumni Association board shortly after receiving her degree from GovState. Despite being involved in several other volunteer activities, Lorraine was deeply dedicated to Govstate and the Alumni Association and was a very active and integral part of the board all throughout her tenure. This scholarship was established in 2009 after Lorraine’s death by husband, Anthony Fontana, who was also a faculty member at Govstate until his retirement in 2011.
Lowe, Hildebrand, Lubinsky Communication Disorders Scholarship
The Lowe, Hildebrand, Lubinsky Scholarship was created to lessen the financial barriers for students who desire to become speech-language pathologists in order to help individuals with communication and swallowing difficulties. The founders devoted their careers in service to the CDIS program, students, and the community.
Matteson Rotary Club Scholarship
This scholarship was established in 1996 for students working toward a career in the public schools and who live in the service area of Richton Park, Olympia Fields, and Matteson. In 2018, Matteson Rotary Club decided to complete an endowment for the scholarship.
Mychael Yarns Vanarsdale Memorial Leadership Scholarship
This scholarship was established in 2022 by his parents Maxwell Vanarsdale II & Veda C. Vanarsdale in loving Memory of Michael and the legacy he left behind in everyone's life he touched.
Mychael Yarns Vanarsdale was born November 29, 1988, to Maxwell and Veda Vanarsdale Jr. They were in their forty's when they had him, so it was a total surprise! Mychael was the apple of so many people's eyes, especially his mother Veda. He was always there, willing, and able to lend a hand.
Mychael attended various schools in his elementary years in district 201-U. After graduating from Crete-Monee High School in 2007, Myke enrolled South Suburban College to pursue a career in Construction Technology. Mychael attended Illinois State University for two years but returned to Prairie State and Governors State University to complete his Bachelors of Arts degree in Communications. During Mychael's time at Governors State University, he dedicated himseJf to making a difference by becoming the President of Black Student Union, President of Student Senate, and being an activist for college funding, for GSU and across the state.
Mychael dedicated his time mentoring and giving back to the community while employed with the Young lnvincibles as a Midwest Organizer. He also worked at 3 Seeds Mentoring Group as an Outreach Specialist. He enjoyed participating in The Youth Summit which provides young adults with the power of choice.
When Myke was in his element, he was either behind the camera, in front of the camera, or on stage performing with C.A.B., a group started in college. Mychael was cool, calm, and usually collected around everyone. He loved playing games from monopoly to spades and beyond. He was really into sports, mostly basketball and football. He enjoyed nothing better than watching a game with his best bud, his cat Bossman.
Mychael loved to watch documentaries and movies of historical value. He was well-read and liked to share with anyone who would listen. He loved writing poetry and songs. He loved hanging out with his guys, and the group he belonged to was called Crew of All Bosses, a.ka. C.A.B. The group strived on entrepreneurship, leadership, and uplifting community. Most of all, Mychael loved spending quality time with his mama and pops. Mychael departed this world on May 15, 2021.
Peggy Williams Memorial Endowed Scholarship
Support from the Peggy Williams Memorial Scholarship not only improves the educational experience our students receive, but for many, it makes their education possible.
Percy and Elizabeth Wagner Endowed Scholarship in Business and Finance
Percy Wagner, a nationally respected real estate professional from Flossmoor, was the state’s agent in the purchase of the property which now comprises the Govstate campus. A member of the Board of the Govstate Foundation, Wagner donated the materials for the rehabilitation of the white frame building, now called the Percy and Elizabeth Wagner House, which houses the university’s development and alumni association staff. The Wagner scholarship is given each year to a Govstate student who demonstrates preparation for and a strong commitment to a career in business, especially in real estate or finance.
Physical Therapy Social Responsibility and Advocacy
This scholarship, in appreciation of Governors State University's mission to offer an exceptional and accessible education that imbues students with the knowledge, skills, and confidence to succeed in a global society, wishes to support Governors State University with a philanthropic gift to establish a scholarship for the Physical Therapy Social Responsibility and Advocacy Endowed Scholarship.
Ralph R. and Delores Turner Endowed Scholarship in Liberal Arts and Elementary Education
The late Ralph Turner worked in postal services in Robins Illinois and was a two–time veteran who returned to school at the age of 57. He earned both a bachelor’s and a master’s degree from Governors State University. His dream of an American Society where all live in harmony and equality lives on in this scholarship. This scholarship was established to honor the memory of Ralph Turner, by his wife Dolores, along with family, friends, and members of the Robbins community.
Respond to Violence Scholarship
The Respond to Violence initiative was developed to bring together students, academics, citizens, community organizations, activists, policy makers, and social justice advocates in solutions-oriented discussions, research, and programs of action.
The Respond to Violence Scholarship was created by Yevette Brown in 2015 to support students interested in working to address violence issues through areas such as activism, policy, media, art, health, education, business, or technology.
The Respond to Violence Endowed Scholarship Fund rewards students pursuing meaningful work across disciplines addressing violence prevention via advocacy and community service–key elements in the university’s Respond to Violence initiative.
Rich Township Community Scholarship
This scholarship was established in 2010 by the Trustees of Rich Township to assist Rich Township residents to complete their education. Carney Barr, Fiscal Manager for Rich Township, oversees the scholarship and is our primary contact with the township.
Ronald Bean Scholarship in Community Service
This scholarship was established in 2009 in honor of Ronald Bean upon his retirement from GovState. Ron, who has a passion for community service, has been an exemplary public servant and leader in a variety of community volunteer service activities since 1973. Some of Ron’s volunteer endeavors (both past and present) include Govstate Foundation board member, Matteson School District 162 vice president, Access to Care board member, CEDA board member, and SPEED Governing Board member, among others.
This scholarship, which was established by his wife, Sharon, is awarded to a Govstate student who demonstrates his/her active involvement in community service.
Rosie Mae Riley Scholarship
Rosie May Riley was a mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, aunt, cousin, and friend to all who loved her dearly. She was a staunch supporter of education and believed strongly that it was key to changing one’s life. Rosie was a frequent patron of many arts and culture performances at Govstate with her family. To celebrate Rosie’s life and pay tribute to her passion for education and the arts, this scholarship was established by Merri Wilkerson and family in 2018.
Scholarship for Finance and Accounting Students
Support from the Scholarship for Finance and Accounting Students not only improves the educational experience our students receive, but for many, it makes their education possible.
Second Chance Scholarship Honoring Gerald Branch-Bey
The Criminal Justice Club at Governors State University established this scholarship for previously incarcerated individuals who wish to begin or continue their college education. One such individual is Mr. Gerald Branch-Bey. Gerald Branch-Bey is an alumnus of Governors State University, earning a 4.0 in both the Bachelor’s and Master’s programs in the Criminal Justice Department. Born in Flint, Michigan and raised on the south side of Chicago, he overcame the magnetism of gangs, drugs, and crime. In 1979, he enlisted in the United States Army. In 1982, he was arrested, convicted, and sentenced to 60 years imprisonment for a crime he did not commit. He served 30 years of that 60-year sentence. During his imprisonment, he acquired his GED and went on to achieve his Associate Arts Degree in General Studies. While incarcerated, he also studied law. When he was released in 2012, he continued his education by enrolling in GovState’s criminal justice program. There, he obtained his Bachelor’s Degree with a 4.0 GPA. Gerald did not stop there. He went on to further his education in the criminal justice curriculum mainly due to his own experience with the criminal justice system. While studying for his Masters, he co-presented alongside Professor Caron Jacobson at the Academy of Criminal Justice Sciences. He procured his Masters in 2018 with a 4.0 GPA.
This scholarship honors Mr. Branch-Bey due to his many volunteer hours speaking in criminal justice classes since his graduation. His words have impacted so many of our students, and his ideology on the criminal justice apparatus embodies the essence of empathy for humanity and justice for all. He will forever be a role model for justice-involved citizens to persevere and not give up hope when returning to society. It is a lesson to all of us to support individuals impacted by the criminal justice system, not only here at GovState, but in our communities, and society as a whole.
Shahid Family Scholarship in memory of Husn Bano Shahid
Husn Bano Shahid was a devoted mother, wife and also practiced being a good Muslim. She was married to Prof. Shahid M. Dardai (2001 Distinguished Professor at Richard J. Daley College, City Colleges of Chicago). Husn Bano Shahid always emphasized on "excellent education, giving charity, hard work and community service" to her children.
The Shahid Family Foundation Scholarship was established to honor Husn Bano Shahid by her son Aslam (Sam) Shahid, who is currently a professor at GovState.
Stephen R. Hyzny Sr. Scholarship
The Stephen R. Hyzny, Sr. Memorial Scholarship will be established in perpetuity for students with designated majors in the College of Arts & Sciences. The scholarship was established to honor Stephen R. Hyzny, Sr. by his son Stephen Hyzny, Jr., who is currently a professor at GovState.
Student Leadership Scholarship in Honor of Sandy the Therapy Dog
In honor of the beloved therapy dog who provides comfort and support to the campus community, Governors State University is proud to offer the Sandy Therapy Dog Scholarship. This scholarship is dedicated to recognizing and rewarding GovState students who embody Sandy's spirit of service and positive engagement. It is specifically designed for student leaders who have demonstrated a significant commitment to giving back to the GovState community through active leadership roles in registered student clubs or fraternal organizations. By supporting these dedicated individuals, the scholarship aims to foster a campus culture of leadership, volunteerism, and mutual support, reflecting the very qualities that make Sandy such a cherished member of the GovState family.
Trent Bartolomucci Foundation Scholarship
This scholarship was created by the Trent Bartolomucci Foundation to honor God and remember Trent by providing resources for others in need and seeking change. The Foundation exists to display grace-powered encouragement and support that produces changed lives. The purpose is to provide educational scholarships for Addiction Studies, build the workforce, and to promote restoration for people desiring a new beginning.
Veterans Scholarship
Your next operational mission is to find purpose forever. We can help. Your military experience is invaluable. Whether you are active military, transitioning to civilian life or a dependent or military spouse, continuing your education will ensure your continued success.
Wilbur L. Morrison Scholarship
Mr. Morrison’s priority in establishing this endowment is to provide scholarship money to students interested in pursuing a retail business career. As GovState does not have a specialization in retail business, preference will be given to students with majors in a business field, especially marketing.