Dear Alumni and Friends:

At my inauguration six months ago, I announced my goal of doubling the number of Presidential Scholarships offered to incoming NEIU students. Since that time, the Presidential Scholars fund has grown to almost $30,000.

The Presidential Scholarship Program awards merit-based scholarships to cover full tuition, fees and a book allowance for entering freshmen who have demonstrated academic excellence. Renewable for up to three years, this is the University's most prestigious academic scholarship. Three new students were selected to receive this award for the 2007-08 academic year. I would like to welcome an additional three freshmen each year, until we reach our goal of 24 Presidential Scholars on campus.

In addition to increasing the number of awards available, the University would also like to increase its applicant pool. On February 18, we welcomed qualified high school students to a special information reception where representatives from the College of Arts and Sciences, the College of Education and the College of Business and Management presented information about academic programs and campus life.

Elizabeth Perkins, one of our current Presidential Scholars, addressed the high school students about her experiences at NEIU thus far. She commented, "I've always had a passion for physics and astronomy, but in high school I wasn't sure I'd be able to pursue that. But here at Northeastern my physics professor has spent his free time talking with me and teaching me new things. Now I'm working at the Adler Planetarium and plan to eventually pursue astrophysics. I'm growing and learning a lot more than I ever have before. I'm really, really pleased."

The Presidential Scholars Program is changing the lives of students at NEIU. With the continued support of alumni, faculty, staff, and friends of the University, our goal of doubling the number of scholarship recipients will become a reality. To learn more about how you can support our Presidential Scholars, click here.

Applications for the Presidential Scholarship Program will be accepted through April 15. For more information, contact Michelle Morrow, director of scholarships and retention, at m-morrow@neiu.edu or (773) 442-4606.