CHICAGO — Today, the Illinois Medical District Commission (IMDC) announced the IMDC Scholarship Program, a new initiative offering financial support to Chicago youth who plan to continue their education and demonstrate academic excellence. The IMDC Scholarship Program will award up to ten (10) merit-based $1,000 scholarships to local high school, higher education, and graduate students, and reflects IMDC’s continued commitment to the IMD community and City of Chicago.

“As the Illinois Medical District continues to grow as a hub of innovation and research, we are proud to invest in the next generation of leaders,” said Allyson Hansen, CEO and Executive Director of the IMDC. “By offering financial support to Chicago youth working to advance their education, we are reaffirming our commitment to fostering equity and empowerment within the communities we serve and across Chicagoland.”

Qualifications:

  • Have demonstrated academic excellence, strong leadership qualities, and a commitment to community service;
  • Are accepted into or are currently enrolled in an associate, bachelor’s, or graduate program;
  • Are a U.S. citizen, permanent resident, or Deferred Action for Childhood Arrival (DACA) status;
  • Reside in one of the following zip codes: 60605, 60607, 60608, 60609, 60612, 60616, 60620, 60621, 60622, 60623, 60624, 60629, 60632, 60636, 60639, 60641, 60642, 60644, 60647, 60651, 60652, 60661.

Applications: Only complete applications will be considered. A complete scholarship application should include:

  • Application form;
  • Offer letter or proof of enrollment at a qualifying college or university;
  • Three (3) letters of recommendation;
  • GPA verification or college or university transcript;
  • Complete responses to three (3) short essay prompts;
  • Proof of residency in one of the zip codes referenced in “Qualifications.”

Review Process: There is a two-part evaluation process:

  • All applications are anonymized and reviewed by IMDC staff to ensure an unbiased and transparent vetting;
  • Shortlisted applicants may be invited for an in-person interview to determine final selection.

How to Apply: Applications can be submitted by email or mailed:

Email:

[email protected]

Mail:

Scholarships

Illinois Medical District Commission

2100 W Harrison St

Chicago, IL 60612

Deadline: Complete applications must be received via email or mail by Friday, March 7, 2025 at 5 p.m. CT.

Questions: For more information about the IMDC Scholarship Program, or for questions about the application process or eligibility requirements, contact [email protected].