Kankakee, IL – Applications are open for Mayor Wells-Armstrong’s Fourth Annual African American Civic Leaders’ Scholarship. Up to five students will be awarded scholarships in the amount of $2,000 each based on academics, positive leadership, extra-curricular school activities and community involvement.

According to the United Negro College Fund, college degrees are regarded as a primary vehicle for reducing poverty and closing wealth gaps. Barriers to graduating from college for some African American students is evidenced by low retention rates for black students across the nation. The retention rate is partially due to the fact that 65% of African American college students are independent, meaning they must balance pursuing a degree with full-time work and family responsibilities. "Those statistics speak to my own experiences of becoming a mother at the age of 18 years and working multiple jobs to help support my family while putting myself through college,” said Mayor Wells-Armstrong.

The deadline to submit an application is Monday, March 1, 2021. No taxpayer funds are utilized for the scholarships.

“For the last three years, our community has rallied in raising funds to help remove barriers for students pursuing higher education. All applicants must participate in an  interview with the scholarship committee. Once selected, the students will be recognized for their outstanding achievements during our annual event,” said Mayor Wells-Armstrong.

Details for the event will follow at a later date.

The requirements to be eligible include:

• City of Kankakee resident  
• Proof of enrollment in an educational program
• City of Kankakee graduating senior or current full time student
• African American descent
• Minimum of a 2.5 GPA
• Under the age of 21 years

To apply, visit https://www.cfkrv.org/scholarships/how-to-apply-for-a-scholarship/.

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The City of Kankakee is dedicated to protecting, building, and nurturing the community while enhancing lives. We are a historic, vibrant, and active riverfront community. We continue to transform into an extraordinary place to dream, grow, and thrive. Embracing our diversity, we strive to be progressive, inclusive, and innovative. For more information on the City of Kankakee, please visit the website at www.citykankakee-il.gov.

 

Download the Press Release - Deadline Approaching for Mayor Wells-Armstrong’s 4th Annual African American Civic Leaders’ Scholarship