When alumni and community leaders like you reflect on the profound impact IC had on your life — the friendships, the mentors, the transformative experiences — there are many ways you can give back. One of the most direct ways to impact future students is by establishing a scholarship. 

It’s not just about generosity. It’s about creating real, tangible opportunities for students who might not otherwise have access to an IC education. Most students at IC rely on some form of financial aid, and scholarships are the lifeline that can turn dreams into reality. They’re not just financial support — scholarships help students overcome the obstacles that stand between them and their goals. And the impact? It’s often nothing short of life-changing.

The power of a scholarship

The creation of a new scholarship is an opportunity to shape a meaningful legacy tailored to your hopes for the future of Illinois College. Maybe it’s based on financial need, ensuring that a student who’s passionate and driven doesn’t miss out due to cost. Or perhaps it’s merit-based, rewarding academic excellence. Some choose to address a particular area of study such as education or to serve a specific population of students, such as military veterans. There’s also something deeply meaningful about setting up a scholarship in memory of a loved one or in honor of someone who made a significant difference in your life. 

Scott Belobrajdic ’86, a major gift officer, guides Illinois College donors as they explore options. He enjoys learning about which areas of the Hilltop donors are passionate about and crafting a scholarship that reflects their unique values. Belobrajdic has spent his career working in various roles in higher education. During that time he has seen a shift in the cost of education and the ability of students to reasonably afford an education. 

“Unlike today’s students, I was able to pay for college and living expenses myself, without help from my family, by working in the summer and during the academic year,” he said. “That is not possible for the vast majority of students today.”

Outstanding colleges are now providing more personalized services, technology, innovative learning environments and global experiences needed to prepare students to meet the evolving needs of the modern workforce. 

While some colleges and universities have been unable to adapt to meet the challenges of this moment, Illinois College continues to attract talented students and retain support from an engaged alumni community.

Why scholarships matter at Illinois College

Scholarships are more than just financial aid — they’re essential tools for attracting and retaining talented students at IC. Investments in scholarships can make the exceptional qualities of an Illinois College education accessible to a broader range of students. It ensures that those who would thrive at IC aren’t forced to go elsewhere because of cost. 

Take it from Karissa Duncan ’24, a recent graduate from the neuroscience program who has felt the profound impact of scholarships firsthand: “Having a community that invests in scholarships made choosing an Illinois College education possible for me. My parents and I often talk about how grateful we are that I have so much support at IC. It really helped lower the stress of enrolling at IC. It honestly changed my life.”

Two way to make an impact

Endowed scholarships

An endowed scholarship is a powerful way to leave a lasting legacy at Illinois College. Your initial gift is invested, and only the returns from that investment are used to provide scholarships to students year after year. This means your generosity continues to support students indefinitely, helping generations of IC students to learn and grow on the Hilltop. Many choose to continue to contribute additional gifts after seeing the impact that scholarships have on students. 

Whether you choose to fund your endowment with a single gift, spread it out over time, or include it in your estate plans, an endowed scholarship ensures your impact is both deep and enduring.

Annual scholarships

If you’re looking to make an immediate impact, an annual scholarship might be the perfect option. Your full gift is awarded to students right away, with your contributions directly funding scholarships each year. This approach allows you to see the immediate effects of your generosity and offers the flexibility to support a student on an annual basis. To maximize your impact, consider making a multi-year commitment to your scholarship, ensuring that the support continues as long as you choose.

Ready to make a difference?

Establishing a scholarship at Illinois College is more than just a gift — it’s a chance to leave a legacy that will shape lives for years to come. And with the support of the IC alumni team, creating a scholarship is simpler than you might think. Whether you choose to set up an endowed scholarship that will support students for generations or an annual scholarship that makes an immediate difference, your contribution will have a lasting impact. 

So, what are you waiting for? Reach out to the alumni engagement and advancement team Zach Wittmann ’10 and Scott Belobrajdic ’86 at 217.245.3046 to learn more. Your generosity will change the lives of students, just as Illinois College once changed yours.