Scholarships
Youth Scholarships
The Italian-American Society of Peoria awards scholarships to high school seniors or college undergraduates of Italian descent annually to assist in obtaining advanced education in their chosen field of endeavor.
Anthony Montefusco Sr. Memorial Scholarship
This scholarship is commonly known as the “internal” scholarship, named in memory of one of the Society's founding fathers and first president, Anthony Montefusco Sr. Candidates for this award must be children or grandchildren of Society members deemed in good standing, having been a member for a minimum of five years. The scholarship may be used to defray the cost of tuition, books, or other academic expenses at the recipient's selected college or university. A maximum of $1000 is awarded to each recipient. Members may request applications and selection criteria by writing to the Italian-American Society of Peoria Scholarship Committee at P.O. Box 6276, Peoria, Illinois, 61601.
Robert L. Facker Memorial Scholarship at ICC
This scholarship is offered as a grant through the Educational Foundation at Illinois Central College (ICC) in East Peoria, IL, named in memory of six-time past president and member for over 50 years, Robert L. Facker. It was established to encourage young men or women of Italian descent to further their education at ICC. The scholarship may be used to defray tuition costs, lab fees, books, etc. associated with attending Illinois Central College. Currently, the Society offers two annual scholarships of $1000 each. Applications may be obtained by visiting the ICC Financial Assistance Office, writing them at One College Drive, East Peoria, Illinois, 61635-0001, or visiting their website icc.edu/admissions/scholarships/
The Italian-American Society of Peoria is responsible for providing input as to the selection criteria and guidance for the final candidate selection. Students are eligible to receive a maximum of two total scholarships (a combination of the Internal and Illinois Central College scholarships), but not in the same academic year. Students are ineligible to receive the same scholarship in consecutive years.
The Society has provided almost $90,000 in scholarships since inception of the program, and has helped provide many youth the opportunity to pursue their dreams through continuing education.
For details as to how you can make a contribution to the scholarship fund, contact the Scholarship Committee Chairman. It is an excellent way to support the Society and today's youth of Italian descent.