Investing in Our Future: SCSDD and UNCF Host 2025 Scholarship Gala to Support Chicagoland Students
Partnership to Raise Scholarship Money for Local Students
For the third year, the Superintendents’ Commission for the Study of Demographics and Diversity (SCSDD) and UNCF, the United Negro College Fund, are joining forces to raise scholarship money for students in the Chicagodoeland area. The "Investing in Our Future" Scholarship Gala will be held on Friday, February 21, from 6 to 11 p.m. at the Tinley Park Convention Center, 18451 Convention Center Drive, Tinley Park. Visit investinginourfuture.myle.com for more information.
The Superintendents’ Commission
The Superintendents’ Commission is a distinguished educational organization that serves school districts in the suburban Cook and collar counties, bringing together elementary and secondary superintendents. Dr. Sandra Thomas, president of the group of almost 40 superintendents, said the partnership with UNCF was born out of the vision of Dr. Blondean Y. Davis, superintendent of Matteson School District 162, to collaborate to provide students with scholarships.
Mission and Goals
"We want to make sure that we are doing our part to ensure that children have the opportunity to fulfill their unlimited potential," Sandra Thomas said. The "Investing in Our Future" Gala aims to raise scholarship money for local students to pursue their higher education goals.
Last Year’s Success
Last year, the "Investing in Our Future" Gala raised more than $400,000. As a result, the Superintendents’ Commission was able to award 90 Ron Edmond Scholarship Awards. Tougaloo College, a Historically Black College and University in Mississippi, also awarded 10 full-ride scholarships to students. Tougaloo will award scholarships again this year.
Partnership Benefits
"Our collaboration with the United Negro College Fund means more money for more students," said Dr. Johnnie Thomas, co-chair of the scholarship gala and superintendent of Rich Township High School District 227. "That means more support for our students to fulfill their dreams." In three years, the UNCF and SCSDD have raised almost a million dollars.
UNCF’s Commitment
"From 2022-2023, UNCF awarded scholarships to 515 Illinois students. In its 81st year, UNCF has raised more than $5 billion and helped more than 500,000 students not just attend college but thrive, graduate, and become leaders," said UNCF Regional Development Director Lisa M. Rollins.
Gala Details
The "Investing in Our Future" Gala will be an evening of fine dining, entertainment, dancing, and more. More than 1,000 supporters attended last year. This year, more than 300 students from 10 high schools will perform for those in attendance. Tickets are available at investinginourfuture.myle.com or by calling 312-845-2200. Follow UNCF on social media @UNCFChicago and #UNCFChicago.
Scholarship Application
The application for the Ron Edmond Scholarship is now available. The deadline to apply is March 1. Visit scsdd.net/scholarship.
Conclusion
The "Investing in Our Future" Scholarship Gala is a testament to the commitment of the SCSDD and UNCF to support local students in pursuing their higher education goals. The partnership has raised almost a million dollars in three years, providing life-changing opportunities for students.
Frequently Asked Questions
- When is the "Investing in Our Future" Scholarship Gala?
The gala will take place on Friday, February 21, from 6 to 11 p.m. at the Tinley Park Convention Center. - How can I purchase tickets?
Tickets are available at investinginourfuture.myle.com or by calling 312-845-2200. - How can I apply for the Ron Edmond Scholarship?
The application is available at scsdd.net/scholarship. The deadline to apply is March 1.
