Community Foundation of Macon County Announces Adult Scholarship Program

The Community Foundation of Macon County announces a new educational scholarship opportunity available to individuals age 24 or older who live in Macon County and either currently attend, or plan to attend, Richland Community College or Millikin University. Applications for this nontraditional student scholarship program open Jan. 1 on the foundation’s website. Scholarship awards can range up to $2,500 per individual.

“We have seen a growing need for nontraditional scholarships,” said Natalie Beck, CEO of The Community Foundation of Macon County. “Amid shifting economic realities brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic, Macon County adults from all social, economic and ethnic backgrounds are pursuing educational opportunities in greater numbers than in past years. The pandemic has created new hardships for many community members, including job furloughs, job losses and struggles to navigate remote learning for their children while still trying to work. These individuals aspire to complete college degrees or vocational training as a way to bring good outcomes out of difficult circumstances.”

The adult scholarship program for Macon County nontraditional students supports two- and four-year degrees, a master's degree and vocational training at Richland Community College and/or Millikin University.

Eligibility requirements:

  • Applicants must be Macon County residents age 24 or older.
  • Applicants must demonstrate legal residency in Macon County for at least the past year. Documentation such as housing receipts, utility bills, tax forms or a voter's registration card may be used to verify residency.
  • Selected applicants must attend Richland Community College or Millikin University.
  • Applicants must have interrupted their education, at some point, for at least three years.
  • Financial need is considered when determining award recipients. Applicants must provide relevant financial documents for The Community Foundation of Macon County to review, including a completed FAFSA form (available at fafsa.gov).

Available funding:

Scholarship awards range up to $2,500 per individual and may be used for tuition, course/program-related fees and books. The Community Foundation of Macon County will provide total funding for the adult scholarship program of $38,000 annually over two scholarship cycles yearly, spring and fall. Selected applicants may apply for successive semesters of scholarship support.

The application portal for Fall 2021 funding opens Jan. 1 and closes March 1. For more information, visit this link.