Youth Scholarships

The Italian-American Society of Peoria awards scholarships to high school seniors or college undergraduates of Italian descent annually to assist in obtaining advanced education in their chosen field of endeavor. The first two are awarded in memory of two very prominent and respected members of the Society.

Anthony Montefusco Sr. Scholarship at ICC

This scholarship is offered as a grant through the Educational Foundation at Illinois Central College (ICC) in East Peoria, IL, in memory of one of the Society's founding fathers and first president, Anthony Montefusco Sr. It was established to encourage young men or women of Italian descent to further their education at ICC. The scholarship may be used to defray tuition costs, lab fees, books, etc. associated with attending Illinois Central College. Currently, the Society offers up to two scholarships, awarded at $900 per scholarship. Applications may be obtained by visiting the ICC Financial Assistance Office, writing them at One College Drive, East Peoria, Illinois, 61635-0001, or visiting their web site.

The Illinois Central College Educational Foundation held its annual Community Celebration on October 27th at the Embassy Suites in East Peoria.

Over 1000 people attended this wonderful event where the Foundation recognized their 2008-2009 scholarship award recipients and donors.

To read about the 2010 recipient of this scholarship, click here.

Robert L. Facker Memorial Scholarship

This scholarship is commonly known as the "internal" scholarship, named in memory of six-time past president and member for over 50 years, Robert L. Facker. Candidates for this award must be children or grandchildren of Society members deemed in good standing. The scholarship may be used to defray the cost of tuition, books, or other academic expenses at the recipient's selected college or university. Currently, the total amount available each year for distribution is $2000, with a maximum of $700 per recipient. Members may request applications and selection criteria by writing to the Italian-American Society of Peoria Scholarship Committee at P.O. Box 6276, Peoria, Illinois, 61601.Click here for more information.

To read about the 2010 recipients of this scholarship, click here.

Italian-American Society Scholarship at Bradley University

This scholarship is offered as a grant through the Office of Financial Assistance at Bradley University in Peoria, IL. It was established to encourage young men or women of Italian descent residing in the "tri-county area" to further their education at Bradley University. The scholarship may be used to defray tuition costs, lab fees, books, etc. associated with attending Bradley University. Currently, the Society offers one annual scholarship of $1,000. Applications may be obtained by visiting the Bradley University Office of Financial Assistance, writing them at 1501 W. Bradley Avenue, Peoria, IL 61625-0169, or visiting their web site.

The Italian-American Society of Peoria was proud to help recognize their third recipient of the Italian American Society Scholarship at Bradley University, Ms. Kelsey Bussone (pictured coming soon).

Oversight

With all three scholarships, The Italian-American Society of Peoria is responsible for providing input as to the selection criteria and guidance for the final candidate selection.

The Society has provided more than $60,000 in scholarships since inception of the program, and has helped provide many youth the opportunity to pursue their dreams through continuing education.

For details as to how you can make a tax deductible contribution to the scholarship fund, contact the Scholarship Committee Chairman. It is an excellent way to support the Society and today's youth of Italian descent.