Tuesday, November 13, 2012

Press Release: University YMCA Now Accepting Applications for $150,000 in Scholarships

Over $150, 000 in scholarships will be awarded this year by the University YMCA's Fred S. Bailey Scholarship to University of Illinois students working to improve their communities.  University of Illinois students who may have made an impact through commitment to service, community involvement, leadership, and action are eligible to apply.  University YMCA will also give out four $5000 awards to upcoming seniors who have made an exceptional impact in one or more of the following areas: Social Justice, Environment, Faith in Action, and International Issues.

Unlike many scholarships that emphasize academic achievement, and financial need, Bailey Scholars must also show a commitment to service and action.  "While academics is important, a major responsibility of any University is to prepare thoughtful, committed citizens with an understanding of society and the environment and who care for those around them," explains Kasey Umland, Bailey Scholarship Director.  "We seek to recognize and encourage personal development by honoring student leaders that have made significant contributions to the community."

As President of Champaign National Bank, Fred S. Bailey developed a strong appreciation for the University YMCA and believed in its commitment to develop and nurture ethical leaders who were committed to making the world a better place.  When he passed away in 1955, his Will established the Fred Bailey Trust and designated two-thirds of the income to be paid to the University YMCA for scholarships to U of I students on the basis of "moral character, intelligence, leadership and scholarship without regard to their field of study.

Over the past fifty years, the University YMCA has awarded millions of dollars in scholarships to thousands of University of Illinois students through the Bailey Scholarship Program.  Since 2001, over 600 students have received $1.4 billion in Bailey Scholarships.

Applications will be available online from November 7th to February 7th.  Informational sessions about the scholarship will be held throughout the application period.  For more information, please visit: www.universityymca.org/bailey.

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Please publicize from November 13, 2012 to February 7, 2013.

Contact:
Kasey Umland, Program Director
Office: 217-337-1514
Email: kasey@universityymca.org

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