The African American Hall of Fame Museum supports African American graduating seniors of Bloomington and Normal high schools who are pursuing higher education at an accredited college or university.
Toward that end, the Hall of Fame awards scholarships to support and encourage community involvement among African-American students. The scholarships are one-year, non-renewable monetary awards to be applied toward expenses incurred to attend an accredited college or university. The awards will be disbursed to the recipient at the beginning of the fall semesters of the freshman year. Proof of full-time enrollment (a minimum of 12 credit hours) must be provided.
Scholarship recipients and their schools will be notified by February 9, 2016, and scholarship recipients will be expected to attend the African American Hall of Fame Museum’s Red, Black, and Green Ball at 6 p.m. Feb. 27 at the Peoria Riverfront Museum in Peoria. Scholarship recipients must submit an electronic photo for the press release.
Scholarship eligibility is based upon the following criteria:
• An African-American resident of the greater Bloomington and Normal School Districts.
• A 2016 graduating high school senior.
• Minimum high school cumulative grade point average of 3.2 on a 4.0 or 5.0 scale.
• Leadership qualities as evidenced by activities, interests, and affiliations within school and the community
• Acceptance at an accredited college or university for the 2016-2017 academic year.
To qualify, complete and sign the enclosed application form below and attach the following:
• Official high school transcript (through the seventh semester), including cumulative grade point average
• A copy of admission letter to an accredited college or university for the 2016-2017 academic year,
• Two letters of reference (including name, address, and telephone number) - one from a teacher or counselor, and one from an adult (other than a relative or personal friend), who can attest to your character.
• An essay on “How does knowing history help shape your future." The essay must be a minimum 500 words, double-, and written in a 12-point font.
Incomplete applications and/or applications postmarked after January 28, 2016, will not be considered. A completed application and attachments must be postmarked by January 28, 2016, and mailed to Bobby Gray, Scholarship Co-Chairperson, African American Hall of Fame Museum, 309 S. DuSable Street Peoria, Il 61602.
Applications also may be scanned and emailed by January 28, 2016, to Bjgblm@comcast.net.