DES PLAINES HISTORY CENTER
2026 HIGHER EDUCATION SCHOLARSHIP

HIGHER EDUCATION SCHOLARSHIP MATCHING CAMPAIGN
Thank you to the Board of Trustees for your generous support!

Application Deadline: April 6, 2026

* * * * * Click Here to download a copy of the Application and Instructions * * * * *

INTRODUCTION

The Des Plaines History Center is proud to award a scholarship in the amount of $1,000 to a graduating high school senior residing in Des Plaines to support their pursuit of higher education. This scholarship recognizes students who demonstrate a commitment to academic growth while fostering a deeper appreciation for history and its impact on the present. We hope to inspire future leaders who value critical thinking, cultural understanding, and community engagement.

• • • • • •

SUBMISSION INSTRUCTIONS

The application packet must be complete and organized in the order listed below. We must receive all original transcripts, letters of recommendation, and other required documents by April 6, 2026. For questions, email applications@desplaineshistory.org or call 847-391-5399. Incomplete or nonconforming applications will not be considered.

A resumé can be substituted for the Application Form, as long as it
includes all of the required information.

Digital Submission:

1. Save all required documents listed in the Checklist section online at DesPlainesHistory.org, as a single PDF titled:

[LastName_FirstName_Scholarship_Year] (e.g., Smith_John_Scholarship_2025.pdf).

2. Submit via email to applications@desplaineshistory.org with the subject line [Your Name] - Scholarship Application 2025.

3. Receipt of application will be acknowledged via email within 48 hours of submission. Contact applications@desplaineshistory.org if you do not receive a confirmation email.

4. Applications must be submitted by/before April 6, 2025, 5:00 pm CST.

• • • • • •

FOR HARD COPY SUBMISSIONS

1. Print all required documents and organize them in the specified order. Use a paperclip, not staples.

2. Mail or drop off (Before and after regular business hours, place your application in the black mailbox to the left of the front door.)
Des Plaines History Center
Attn: Scholarship Committee
781 Pearson St.
Des Plaines, IL 60016

3. Mailed applications must be postmarked by April 6, 2025

• • • • • •

ELIGIBILITY

The 2026 Des Plaines History Center Scholarship is open to graduating high school seniors who live within a Des Plaines ZIP code (60016 or 60018) and who have been accepted to an accredited college or university.

Children and grandchildren of Des Plaines History Center board members and staff are not eligible.