Ida B. Wells Rising Sophomore Retention Scholarship (Open to NEIU Sophomore Students who are Chicago Public School Graduates)

Purpose: The scholarship is named in honor of and is inspired by journalist, teacher, activist, anti-lynching crusader, and suffragette, Ida B. Wells. The Ida B. Wells Sophomore CPS Alumni Scholarship seeks to support underrepresented students who are graduates of Chicago Public Schools, who have persisted through their first year at NEIU, have earned sophomore standing, have achieved good academic standing, and have a pre/intended major.

Eligibility requirements:
o Successfully completed first year at NEIU during 2022-2023 academic year (cannot be a junior, senior, or graduate student)
o Earned 30 credit hours at NEIU (including developmental coursework)
o Be enrolled full-time (minimum 12 credit hours) for during the fall and spring semesters.
o Open to any undergraduate major at NEIU.
o Minimum 2.00 cumulative grade point average.
o Has demonstrated involvement in campus activities and community service or social justice activism.

Application and program expectations if selected:
o Complete the application and provide a letter of recommendation (i.e. academic advisor, faculty/staff member, student organization advisor, community service supervisor, service project supervisor etc.).
o Typewritten 150-word minimum essay: Based on what you already know or have newly learned about Ida B. Wells, how do you see yourself following in her footsteps and continuing her legacy? (cite sources as appropriate)
o Must participate in activities (i.e. workshop or service project) sponsored by the Ida B. Wells Scholar Program mentoring and leadership program (minimum 2 activities per semester). Attend year-end celebration at the end of the spring semester and submit a reflection of that experience.
o Maintain good academic standing and continue to make progress towards degree.
o Willingness to serve on the Advisory Committee in a subsequent year.
o Public presentation as an Ide B. Wells Scholar to the University community.