University News

Hope Chicago and WIU Join Together to Provide Debt-Free College Education

June 6, 2022

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MACOMB/MOLINE, IL -- Western Illinois University and Hope Chicago have joined together for a new, innovative two-generation college scholarship program committed to investing $1 billion in postsecondary scholarships to Chicago Public School students and their parents over the next decade. WIU will welcome the inaugural Hope Chicago cohort, composed of at least 30 students, in Fall 2022.

"WIU provides a place for success for anyone who dreams of getting an education," said WIU President Guiyou Huang. "We're honored to be one of the first partner universities with Hope Chicago. This partnership will make debt-free college education possible for thousands of Chicago Public School students and their families. Every student matters at Western and we are committed to helping our students grow and succeed."

According to WIU Vice President for Enrollment Management Amber Schultz, as a Hope Chicago partner university, incoming Hope Scholars at Western are eligible for the full suite of comprehensive support that Hope Chicago offers including scholarships to cover all academic and extracurricular-related expenses.

"The transition for any scholar into a new postsecondary setting is a critical moment in time. That's why we are so excited to have such deep relationships in place with Western that ensure a deep bench of support for our first cohort of Hope Scholars enrolling this fall," said Hope Chicago Chief Program Officer Michele Howard.

Hope Chicago students and their families visited Western in early May 2022 for a personalized tour, meeting with admissions staff and faculty and more. In addition to providing traditional college-age students access to education, Hope Chicago also provides debt-free access to education for their parents and guardians. According to Schultz, WIU anticipates including parents and guardians in a revised agreement with Western next year.

"We know a college degree is the most powerful tool one can use to maximize their career opportunities," says Hope Chicago Chief Executive Officer Janice Jackson. "That's why we aim to change the game and redefine the college experience for our scholars in collaboration with our partner institutions such as Western Illinois University."

For more information, visit wiu.edu/hope or hopechicago.org.

Posted By: University Communications (U-Communications@wiu.edu)
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