The Illinois Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS) recently honored this year’s scholarship recipients at its annual scholarship luncheon, celebrating 317 current and former youth in care who earned awards through the Illinois DCFS Scholarship Program.
The program provides up to five consecutive years of tuition and mandatory fee waivers at Illinois public colleges, universities and vocational schools, as well as financial assistance for books, school supplies, living expenses and Medicaid coverage.
The DCFS Scholarship Program is available to eligible current and former youth in care. Recipients are selected based on academic achievement, community involvement, letters of recommendation and a personal essay demonstrating their commitment to higher education.
During the event, the department also honored the memory of Pamela Knight and Deidre Silas, two Illinois DCFS caseworkers who lost their lives in the line of duty, by continuing special awards for student leaders pursuing careers in social work in recognition of their dedication to Illinois children and families.
House Minority Leader Tony McCombie has worked to honor Pam Knight and Dierdre Silas through legislation in the Illinois House.
“Pam Knight spent her life loving and serving others, and her compassion, generosity and commitment to others continues to inspire through this scholarship,” said House Minority Leader Tony McCombie. “To this year’s recipient, and to every student pursuing their dreams: from this day forward, you have the opportunity to write your own story, regardless of the challenges you’ve faced. Stay strong, work hard and trust that your determination will open doors to a bright future.”