We empower hardworking, high-achieving students to pursue higher education and build a lasting legacy of academic excellence.

Application Details

Who can apply?

Scholarships are open to all high school seniors, students with GED diplomas, undergraduate (2-year or 4-year) college students, and students at vocational or trade schools who meet the program requirements.

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Any requirements?

Applicants must have a GPA of 3.0 or higher, an annual adjusted gross family income of $65,500 or less, and reside in Illinois’ Cook, Dupage, Kane, Lake, or Will counties for at least six months.

Full list of requirements >>

When’s the deadline?

We only accept applications from January 1– March 31st for the current year’s scholarships.

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Scholarship Highlights

  • Sylvia DeRosa was a cherished grandmother, mother, friend and well-known figure in Chicago’s restaurant scene.

    She spent over 40 years at hotspots like Rosebud and Capri, where her warmth and humor left a lasting impression on everyone—from regulars to celebrities like Frank Sinatra and Dolly Parton.

    Above all, Sylvia’s heart belonged to her family. A devoted matriarch to four children and seven grandchildren, she led with love, strength, and compassion. Though deeply missed, her legacy lives on in the lives she touched and the family she so deeply cherished.

  • Sarah Veatch was a deeply loved daughter, sister, aunt, friend, and devoted follower of Christ, remembered for her strength, compassion, creativity, and gentle spirit. 

    Born in 1990 and raised in Barrington, IL, she was active in ballet, soccer, Tae Kwon Do, and especially gymnastics, where she shined as part of the Barrington High School team. Though her life was tragically cut short at age 26, Sarah touched many through her empathy, love for children and animals, and creative talents in writing and photography. She lived selflessly, serving others through church ministries and sponsoring children through World Vision. Her legacy lives on through a memorial scholarship fund, helping others pursue hope-filled futures—just as she would have wanted.

  • Margaret "Marge" Snelten was a vibrant, fun-loving, and fiercely independent matriarch deeply devoted to her family. 

    A loving wife to John and mother of four, she was adored by her ten grandchildren for her magical imagination and playful spirit.

    Orphaned at age nine during the Great Depression, Marge faced immense hardship but was determined to pursue her education. Despite opposition from her guardians, she worked various jobs from a young age to afford school supplies and eventually became the first in her family to graduate high school in 1939. A true trailblazer, she also advocated for girls’ youth sports in Chicago and championed the importance of education and self-reliance for young women. Her strength, determination, and legacy continue to inspire her family today.

  • Vic was known as one of the “good guys”—a hardworking, kind, and deeply loyal man. 

    He spent his career in construction, starting with his grandfather’s curb and gutter company. Married to his high school sweetheart, Carol, since 1964, they raised two children and later welcomed grandchildren who were the light of his life.

    Vic was admired for his integrity, sense of humor, and dedication to both work and family. Even during his toughest battles, he remained an uplifting presence, inspiring those around him. He will be forever remembered as a hero, mentor, and loving family man whose spirit lives on in the hearts of those who knew him.

  • John Liberatore was a larger-than-life figure known for his generosity, strong values, and deep love for others. 

    Born in 1952 and raised in the Elmwood Park/Norridge area, he was shaped by his Italian-American Catholic upbringing, emphasizing family, hard work, and respect. Married to Debbie for 35 years and a devoted father to Erica, John worked in the funeral industry for over 40 years and was a proud member of Teamsters Local 727.

    He was admired for his kindness, sense of humor, sharp style, and presence that lit up any room. A strong supporter of the Palumbo Family Foundation, John played a key role in awarding scholarships to deserving students. His sudden passing in 2014 left a deep void, but his legacy of love, service, and loyalty continues to inspire those who knew him.

  • Paul Salce was a fun-loving, generous, and deeply caring man who left a lasting impact on everyone he met.

    Born in 1931 to Italian immigrants, Paul was inspired by his father's resilience and success in the construction industry, eventually founding his own company serving the City of Chicago.

    While he loved his work, Paul's greatest joy was his family. Married to his beloved Claudia since 1955, he proudly raised three children and was blessed with eight grandchildren. Known for his unmatched sense of humor, practical jokes, and ever-present Parodi cigar, Paul could light up any room. His passing left a deep void, but his spirit lives on through cherished memories and the vibrant personalities of his children and grandchildren.

  • James was a devoted father, a man of deep faith, and someone known for his kindness and generosity. 


    Passionate about both his family and the tire business, he also had a remarkable sense of humor and a gift for sales. His dedication, work ethic, and ability to make others laugh left a lasting impact. Though his passing has left a deep void, his family vows to carry on his legacy and the spirit of Cassidy Tire with pride and love.

  • Mayor Donald E. Stephens was deeply committed to the Village of Rosemont, Illinois. 


    As a pioneer, he led its incorporation in 1956 and transformed it from a small community into a top national destination for meetings, conventions, and tradeshows. He developed major venues like the Donald E. Stephens Convention Center, Allstate Arena, and Rosemont Theatre, attracting millions of visitors annually. He also brought in numerous hotels, restaurants, and commercial developments, boosting the local economy. In 2016, a statue was unveiled in his honor to commemorate his lasting impact on Rosemont’s growth and prosperity.

  • Jim Althoff’s life was defined by hard work, devotion to family, and service to his community. 


    Married to Joan for 62 years, they raised seven children in McHenry, where he was a constant, loving presence. He gave back through decades of leadership, including founding the McHenry Township Volunteer Fire Department, serving on the District 156 School Board, and being appointed to the Illinois State Universities Board of Governors. He also built a successful business, Althoff Industries, from humble beginnings. His legacy of generosity includes donating land and funding public amenities. He is deeply missed by his wife, children, and 13 grandchildren.

  • Patricia Burke was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, and friend, remembered most for her deep love of family. 


    Married to Martin Burke, they raised four children and were blessed with ten grandchildren, all of whom she adored and supported. Pat loved cooking and sewing, often using her talents to comfort others. Her strong faith guided her life, and she was passionate about the importance of education, encouraging her children and grandchildren to pursue their dreams. Pat lived a joyful life centered on family, faith, and kindness, and her legacy lives on through the many successes of those she loved.

  • Jim Cavanaugh was a devoted family man and a perfectionist who gave his all to everything he did. 

    Born in 1934, he developed an early interest in road construction, eventually earning a Civil Engineering degree from Bradley University. He married his high school sweetheart, Barbara, and together they raised four children and enjoyed nine grandchildren, who affectionately called him "Pops."

    Jim spent 32 years at Palumbo Excavating, rising from field engineer to Vice President, and played a key role in building many of Illinois’ roads. Outside of work, he was a passionate gardener known for his beautiful yard and his willingness to help his family. Though he has passed, Jim's legacy lives on in the roads he built, the family he loved, and the peaceful beauty of nature he so cherished.