City Treasurer Launches “Empowerment Scholarships” for New College Students
City Treasurer Launches “Empowerment Scholarships” for New College Students
Chicago City Treasurer Melissa Conyears-Ervin announced the Chicago Treasurer’s Office (CTO) will award its first-ever Empowerment Scholarships to first-year students entering a two or four-year accredited institution in the fall of 2023. The one-time, $5,000 award to students residing in Chicago will be presented during the CTO’s “Financial Youth Symposium and Step Show” program at Chicago State University on August 31.
“The Empowerment Scholarship program reflects our commitment to education, which is an important pathway to build confidence, break down barriers, and open doors to a better life and a brighter future,” said Treasurer Conyears-Ervin.
The Empowerment Scholarship is the first being awarded to Chicago students as part of the CTO’s 2023-2024 college scholarship program sponsored by community partners BMO, Discover, and Providence Bank & Trust. To be eligible for the $5,000 award, which can be used to pay for any education-related expenses, a student must be enrolled in an institution of higher learning in the fall of 2023 and submit a completed application, including an essay, high school transcripts and other materials, to monique.cook-bey@cityofchicago.org by 11:59 pm on Sunday, August 6.
Scholarship Essay Questions and Rules
• Submit a typed essay (no more than 500 words in length) answering your choice of any one of the four following questions:
o The CTO aims to foster financial literacy and education among residents. Describe a
personal experience that highlights the importance of financial education and explain how
you plan to contribute to financial literacy programs and initiatives in your community.
o The CTO emphasizes the importance of technology and innovation in financial services.
Describe an innovative idea to make financial services, such as loans for a new home or
to grow a small business, more accessible to more people in communities of color.
o The CTO places great importance on community engagement. Share a significant
community service or volunteer experience that you had and explain the impact you made
in the community and what inspired you to help others.
o Describe your personal experiences and aspirations align with the mission of the CTO to
promote racial and economic equity. Explain how the Empowerment Scholarship will
enable you to help create a more equitable and inclusive society.
Documents required to be submitted with the application
• One letter of recommendation from either a teacher, advisor, employer, or another who can speak to academic ability, character, and potential (family and relatives are excluded)
• Proof of Chicago residency (i.e., Driver’s License, State ID, or Academic Letter)
• Resume
• Unofficial transcript from high school, such as a print-out from student portal
• Enrollment verification from a two- or four-year accredited college or university
For additional information about this scholarship program and the Chicago Youth Symposium, contact
monique.cook-bey@cityofchicago.org or visit www.chicagocitytreasurer.com.
Opportunities to pursue additional CTO college scholarships will be available in the fall. Details will be
announced later.
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