College of Arts and Sciences Funds
Total funds: 40
College of Arts and Sciences General Fund
The College and Arts and Sciences General Fund provides support for the activities, programs, initiatives, including named commemorative scholarships and awards, in the College.
Additionally Supports: Helen and Shirley Highland Scholarship
Graduate Scholarship for Hydrogeology
The Graduate Scholarship for Hydrogeology was established in 2024 to support students in the Hydrogeology graduate program within the Department of Geography, Geology, and the Environment.
CAS Student Retention Fund
The CAS Student Retention Fund was established by Dr. Larry A. Alferink in order to establish a fund supporting undergraduate student retention efforts in the College of Arts and Sciences. This fund should be used, in consultation with the Dean of the College of Arts and Sciences, to provide financial support for initiatives aimed at improving retention and student success.
Savio Strategic Persistence Fund
The Savio Strategic Persistence Fund was established by Kathleen Savio in 2024 to provide resources to support retention efforts in the College of Arts and Sciences.
College of Arts and Sciences Undergraduate Scholar Fund
This endowment was established in 2005 by the College of Arts and Sciences as a means of supporting outstanding undergraduate students. Students in the college’s departments who have peer-reviewed research papers or works accepted at major state, national, or international meetings related to their academic majors are eligible to apply. Monies may be used to assist with the travel, registration, and housing costs associated with the presentation of the paper or work at a professional meeting. Assets of this endowment are invested in the Illinois State University Endowment Investment Pool. The College of Arts and Sciences Undergraduate Scholar Fund was established in 2005 by the College of Arts and Sciences to support outstanding undergraduate students. Students in the college's departments who have peer-reviewed research papers or works accepted at major state, national, or international meetings related to their academic majors are eligible to apply. Monies may be used to assist with the travel, registration, and housing costs associated with the presentation of the paper or work at a professional meeting.
Additionally Supports: CAS Undergraduate Scholar Fund
Illinois Art Station Fund
The Interactive Art Initiative Fund was established by Dr. Laura E. Berk to support the exploration, development, and sustainability of hands-on visual arts programming and space to serve children, and their families in the community, through coordination with Illinois State University. In 2018, a restatement of the original agreement renamed the fund the Illinois Art Station Fund and modified the fund purpose. Effective July 1, 2020, the Illinois Art Station Fund will support ISU graduate assistantships and other eligible student workers with experiential learning and instructional opportunities associated with Illinois Art Station. Selection of student personnel will be in accordance with university policies and procedures.
Swanson Scholarship for Secondary Education Majors
The Swanson Scholarship for Secondary Education Majors was established by Sharon Swanson in 2020. The scholarship supports students pursuing a secondary teacher education degree in one of the disciplines in the College of Arts and Sciences. Preference will be given to students with demonstrated financial need who are an incoming freshman or a senior who is beginning student teaching. Applicants must submit a short essay (max. 300 words) describing the importance and value of diversity, including men and persons of color, in the teaching profession.
Barbara J. Hummel Fund
The Barbara J. Hummel Fund was established to assist the education of first-generation college students who are studying in the College of Arts and Sciences.
Craig W. Reeser Scholarship in the Social Sciences Endowment
The Craig W. Reeser Scholarship in the Social Sciences Endowment supports students majoring in one of the undergraduate degree programs, or a graduate student accepted to an advanced degree program, in the Social Sciences, within the College of Arts and Sciences. Craig Reeser graduated from ISU in 1975 with degrees in Political Science and Sociology. In 2005, after the death of Craig's father, W. E. Reeser, Craig decided to "give back to the university" through his inheritance and established the Craig W. Reeser Scholarship in the Social Sciences. The Social Sciences include the Department of Economics, History, Politics and Government, Psychology, Sociology and Anthropology, School of Social Work, and Speech Pathology and Audiology. The goal is to provide opportunity for educational support to students across a wide-range of study.
Ronald E. Severson Endowed Scholarship
The Ronald E. Severson Endowed Scholarship was established by Ronald Severson in order to benefit students who are majoring in the College of Arts and Sciences.
Leola Lohr Nelson Memorial Endowed Scholarship
Leola Lohr Nelson was born in 1915 during the Great Depression, and its impact reverberated throughout the rest of her life. She attended the University of Iowa for three years until financial strain forced her to leave her education. She married Stanley Nelson in 1940. They had four children. Leola always stressed the importance of education to them. Later in her life she was able to continue her own education through correspondence courses and began a career as a medical records librarian. Leola's children all learned fiscal responsibility and the importance of a good education from her. More importantly they learned the importance of good moral values and giving back a portion of what they were blessed to possess. This scholarship represents her children's wishes that Leola's legacy of giving continues and blesses others.
John and Susan Freed Scholarship in the Liberal Arts
This endowment was established in 2004 by John and Susan Freed. The scholarship is awarded to a student who has completed at least seventy-five semester hours, is enrolled in the College of Arts and Sciences, and is classified by the Office of Disability Concerns as disabled. Assets of this endowment are invested in the Illinois State University Endowment Investment Pool. The John and Susan Freed Scholarship in the Liberal Arts was established in 2004 by John and Susan Freed. The scholarship is awarded to a student who has completed at least seventy-five semester hours, is enrolled in the College of Arts and Sciences, and is registered with the ISU Office of Student Access and Accommodation Services.
Neil and Joan Styczynski Scholarship
In November 2007 Neil & Joan Styczynski established the Neil and Joan Styczynski Scholarship as a permanently endowed fund in support of the education community of Central Illinois. With the scholarship, they are "paying back" the generosity from which they benefited. It is their hope that the recipients of this scholarship will "pay it forward" in helping and affecting lives of young people in a positive way.
Promoting Equality in the Sciences Scholarship
The Promoting Equality in the Sciences Scholarship was established in 2020 by Joseph and Shannon Fluder to support and promote an individual with a commitment to diversity and inclusion at Illinois State University. The scholarship will assist a student pursuing a major in one of the following Departments: Geography, Geology and the Environment; Sociology and Anthropology; Social Work; Politics and Government; or Psychology. Candidates must prepare a personal statement which demonstrates how their life experiences have fostered an understanding of and commitment to addressing issues of diversity and inclusion in the following communities: Black, indigenous, people of color (BIPOC), or LGBTQ+. Candidate will be chosen by a committee comprised of, at a minimum, the Dean of the College of Arts and Sciences, the Assistant to the President for Diversity and Inclusion, and the Director of the Multicultural Center at Illinois State University.
Sharon Tarvin Scholarship in Mathematics
The Sharon Tarvin Scholarship in Mathematics provides financial assistance to students majoring in mathematics, chemistry, biology, physics, or geography/geology. Applicant must provide a short essay (max. 300 words) describing the importance and value of diversity, including women, in the field of mathematics.
College of Arts and Sciences (CAS) Excellence Awards
This endowment was established in 2006 by the College of Arts and Sciences as a means of financing awards for excellence in teaching, scholarship, and service among faculty and staff in the College of Arts and Sciences. Assets of this endowment are invested in the Illinois State University Endowment Investment Pool. The College of Arts and Sciences (CAS) Excellence Awards fund was established in 2006 to support awards for excellence in teaching, scholarship, and service among faculty and staff in the College of Arts and Sciences.
Grabill-Homan Peace Prize
This endowment was established in 2001 by family, friends, and colleagues in honor of Professors Joseph Grabill and Gerlof Homan. This scholarship is awarded to a student with a minimum of 30 hours of college credit, a peace and conflict resolution minor who has demonstrated involvement with campus and community peacemaking activities. Assets of this endowment are invested in the Illinois State University Endowment Investment Pool. This endowment was established in 2001 by family, friends, and colleagues in honor of Professors Joseph Grabill and Gerlof Homan. Funds may be used to support peace education activities and to pay for a reception hosted annually for the recipient of the Community Peace Prize.
World Wide Campus Student Opportunity Endowment
The World Wide Campus Student Opportunity Endowment provides financial assistance for students, undergraduate and graduate, to study abroad; accept internship opportunities or research opportunities; or attend conferences related to their field of student in order to expand their knowledge and experiences in a global world.
Redbird Relief Fund
The Redbird Relief Fund was established by Dr. David DeMarini in order to provide financial assistance to students experiencing temporary financial hardship or need.
Deon Johnson Scholarship
The Deon Johnson Scholarship was established in 2020 to provide financial assistance for students enrolled in a major within the College of Arts and Sciences. Student must be a member of one of the following organizations: Black Student Union, Association of Latin American Students, or Multicultural Greek Council. Preference given to students who are from a single parent/guardian household and/or a student majoring in social work.
R.I.S.E. (Redbird Internship Success Endowment)
R.I.S.E. (Redbird Internship Success Endowment) was established by Jan Stewart in order to allow CAS Redbirds to pursue meaningful internship opportunities, regardless of location or pay, in order for students to enhance their career preparation.
Donald F. McHenry Visiting Professor of Diplomacy and International Affairs
This endowed chair in multilateral diplomacy was established by an anonymous donor. The purpose of the fund is to expand the scope of students' understanding of diplomacy and international relations. The endowed chair should be a visiting, full-time faculty appointment of two to three years and should teach policy oriented courses, give guest lectures in other ISU courses, participate in external activities to support the national and international reputation of the chair, and present one public lecture at Illinois State University each year. All earnings on the fund should be reinvested until the proceeds from the donor's estate arrive. Assets of this endowment are invested in the Illinois State University Endowment Investment Pool. The Donald F. McHenry Visiting Professor of Diplomacy and International Affairs was established to expand the scope of students' understanding of diplomacy and international relations. The endowed chair should be a visiting, full-time faculty appointment of two to three years and should teach policy oriented courses, give guest lectures in other ISU courses, participate in external activities to support the national and international reputation of the chair, and present one public lecture at Illinois State University each year. All earnings on the fund should be reinvested until the proceeds from the donor's estate arrive.
Roger and Joyce Eads Endowed Scholarship
The Roger and Joyce Eads Endowed Scholarship was established in 2019 to support students in the College of Arts and Sciences. Both Roger and Joyce were both recipients of financial assistance and they wish to help current ISU students obtain their degrees leading to increased career opportunities and satisfying social and personal lives.
Ed & Carol Lind Scholarship for International Experience
The Ed & Carol Lind Scholarship for International Experience was established by Ed & Carol Lind who came to ISU from Tremont and Bradley, Illinois, respectively. They met while both were living in Watterson Towers and, together, successfully navigated their first journey through the halls of Illinois State - Ed as a double major in History and Industrial Technology '76, and Carol as a comprehensive major in Art Education '75. After graduation, Ed earned his engineering license from the State of Wisconsin and began his lifelong career as an HVAC engineer. Carol was a stay-at-home mom and wife, doing volunteer work with groups ranging from the Jaycees to The American Cancer Society. They lived in Kalamazoo, Michigan while their daughter attended high school, before returning to central Illinois and ISU to continue their education - Ed earning his MS in History '07, and Carol achieving an MS '02 and PhD '07 in English Studies. She went on to serve as an adjunct faculty member in the ISU English Department until both retired in 2016. Since retiring, they have traveled extensively, visiting well over 25 countries. "This award is our way of leaving a lasting legacy to an institution that has given us so much over the years and to its students who may not have had the means to see the world and its astounding beauty and diversity as we have been fortunate enough to do." With this money, they hope to help the "Lind Scholar" stretch their Redbird wings and truly become a citizen of the world.
Additionally Supports: Lind Scholarship for International Experience
Greg and Mary Margaret Simpson Endowed Scholarship
The Greg and Mary Margaret Simpson Endowed Scholarship was established in 2018 to support an incoming freshman FTIC student majoring in a discipline within the College of Arts and Sciences.
Kenneth A. and Mary Ann Shaw Teaching Fellowship
Kenneth "Buzz" Shaw earned his undergraduate degree from Illinois State University in 1961 and became an assistant to Presidents Bone and Braden. During his 40-year career as an educator and leader, he held the titles of professor, president, and chancellor. He holds eight honorary degrees, is a renowned author, advisor, and consultant, and is a board member for many prestigious organizations. Mary Ann has been a long-time community servant dedicated to education, children's issues, and service learning. She was instrumental in bringing children's hospitals to the University of Wisconsin-Madison and to Syracuse, New York. The purpose of this fund is to recognize teaching excellence and to improve the teaching and learning environment in the College of Arts and Sciences at the University. Each year two talented teachers will be awarded a minimum of $3,500 to be used for professional development.
Additionally Supports: Buzz and Mary Ann Shaw Teaching Fellowship
Wilson Family Student Assistance Fund
The Wilson Family Student Assistance Fund was established in 2020 to provide support for students in the College of Arts and Sciences experiencing temporary financial hardship or need. Awards are determined on a case-by-case basis based on the funding available.
Redbird 5 Scholarship
The Redbird 5 Scholarship was established by Mark Burker '85, MS '87, Jeff Charnogorsky '85, Bob Freitag '84 and Tom Pfeiff '83 and in November, 2006, Larry Apfelbaum ISU '83 BS. The friendship these five built as students at ISU has continued long past graduation. Each credits ISU with providing a basis for the success he as enjoyed. Through the Redbird 5 Scholarship, Mark, Jeff, Bob and Tom seek to give back to the University that has given them so much. More importantly, the Redbird 5 Scholarship allows these men the opportunity to make a difference in the life of a current ISU student by providing financial support to a student who might otherwise be unable to obtain an ISU education. The Redbird 5 Scholarship was established by Mark Bruker '85, MS '87, Jeff Charnogorsky '85, Bob Freitag '84 and Tom Pfeiff '83 and in November, 2006, Larry Apfelbaum ISU '83 BS. The friendship these men built as students at ISU has continued long past graduation. Each credits ISU with providing a basis for the success he has enjoyed. Through the Redbird 5 Scholarship, Mark, Jeff, Bob, Tom and Larry seek to give back to the University that has given them so much. More importantly, the Redbird 5 Scholarship allows these men the opportunity to make a difference in the life of a current ISU student by providing financial support to a student who might otherwise be unable to obtain an ISU education.
Diane Zosky Access for Opportunity Scholarship
The Diane Zosky Access for Opportunity Scholarship Fund was established to assist students that are majoring in the College of Arts and Sciences as well as pursuing a minor in Latin American and Latino/a Studies or African American Studies.
Carl Heldt Scholarship
The intent of the Carl D. Heldt Scholarship, named for a 22-year member of the ISU faculty, is to enable natural sciences students of promise who are otherwise unable, to attend ISU free from the cost of tuition and fees. Each candidate must be admitted as an incoming full-time freshman or transfer student and enrolled in one of the natural sciences. The candidate must demonstrate financial need and willingness to supplement this scholarship by work while attending ISU, be a multi-talented Illinois high school graduate who can be expected to contribute to society in meaningful and exceptional ways, submit two letters of recommendation, and demonstrate strong academic achievement evidenced by an enrolling cumulative GPA of at least 3.0 on a 4.0 scale and continued academic success while at ISU. Assets of this endowment are invested in the ISU Endowment Investment Pool. The Carl D. Heldt Scholarship, named for a 22-year member of the ISU faculty, supports natural sciences students of promise who are otherwise unable to attend ISU with the cost of tuition and fees. Each candidate must be admitted as an incoming full-time freshman or transfer student and enrolled in one of the natural sciences. The candidate must demonstrate financial need and willingness to supplement this scholarship by working while attending ISU and must be a multi-talented Illinois high school graduate who can be expected to contribute to society in meaningful and exceptional ways.
Bird Seed Scholarship for Arts and Sciences
The Bird Seed Scholarship for Arts and Sciences Majors was established by Tom Ochs in order to financially assist students studying in any major in the College of Arts and Sciences at Illinois State University.
Barbara Lee Aubertine Scholarship for College of Arts and Sciences
The Barbara Lee Aubertine Scholarship for College of Arts and Sciences provides financial assistance for students majoring in English, literature or journalism. The scholarship was established by Matt Aubertine to honor his mother, Barbara Lee Aubertine. Matt's appreciation for the value of good writing, grammar, and enlightening others was shaped by the influence of his mother.
COUNTRY Financial College of Arts and Sciences Scholarship
COUNTRY Financial College of Arts and Sciences Scholarship to support students majoring in Liberal Arts including any and all noted on the proposal to COUNTRY Financial.
Connie Johnson Heins Back-A-Bird Scholarship
The Connie Johnson Heins Back-A-Bird Scholarship was established by Connie Heins in order to support a student pursuing secondary education in English or French.
Laurine Reiske Scholarship
This endowment was established in 2005 with a gift from the John W. Reiske estate. The scholarship is awarded to a student at the sophomore level or above enrolled in the College of Arts and Sciences. Assets of this endowment are invested in the Illinois State University Endowment Investment Pool. This endowment was established in 2005 with a gift from the John W. Reiske estate. The scholarship is awarded to a student at the sophomore level or above enrolled in the College of Arts and Sciences.
Additionally Supports: Laurie Reiske Scholarship
The Glaser Family Teacher Education Scholarship Fund
The Glaser Family Teacher Education Scholarship Fund was established to financially assist students who are wanting to pursue a career in the field of education.
Robert J. Glaser Memorial Scholarship Endowment
The Robert J. Glaser Memorial Scholarship Endowment was established in 2016 by Robert J. Glaser. Mr. Glaser graduated in 1958 from Illinois State Normal University with a teaching degree, and a MS in 1963. He retired from teaching in 1993. The scholarship provides financial support for students with a declared major in the field of economics, history, politics and government, or sociology and anthropology and may be applied toward tuition, room and board, fees and books associated with the recipient's studies.