Simon Youth Foundation seeks scholarship applicants
This year, living near Gurnee Mills could help a graduating senior pay for college. Simon Youth Foundation, a national nonprofit that provides educational opportunities for at-risk high school students, has begun looking for a graduating senior who lives within 50 miles of Gurnee Mills.
Each year, Simon Youth Community Scholarships are awarded in every community across the country that is home to Simon, Mills, or Premium Outlets malls. The application period has begun and ends on March 1.
Students can apply online by visiting syf.org/scholarships.
Any student who will be graduating in the Class of 2016 and lives within 50 miles of a Simon property is eligible. Recipients will receive up to $1,500 to enroll in an accredited college, university, vocational or technical school.
In addition, 10 regional awards called "Awards of Excellence" will be given to top candidates. The regions eligible are Atlanta, Austin, Boston, Chicago, Dallas, Indianapolis, Miami, New York, Orange County California, Orlando, and Seattle/Tacoma. Students from these areas will have the opportunity to receive a $10,000 award ($2,500 a year for up to four years).
In 2015, the Simon Youth Foundation awarded $1.2 million to 300 students nationwide.
"The cost of college continues to rise, and SYF is proud to partner with Gurnee Mills to award scholarships that will remove some of the financial obstacles that could otherwise prevent a student from achieving the dream of a college education," SYF President and CEO Michael Durnil said.
The 2016 SYF Community Scholarship recipients will be selected by International Scholarship and Tuition Services, Inc. (ISTS), a third-party administrator. Students are selected based on a variety of criteria, including financial need, academic performance, leadership skills and participation in school and community activities.
Those students who are the first in their family to pursue a post secondary education will also be given close consideration.
Recipients will be notified in May.