The Southeastern Illinois Community Foundation is now accepting applications for the Bruce V. Penwell, Jr. Nursing Scholarship. This annual scholarship supports aspiring nurses in Effingham, Shelby, and Christian counties, with a deadline to apply set for 11:59 p.m. on Tuesday, March 18, 2025.

The scholarship honors Bruce V. Penwell, Jr., a Pana, Illinois native and Beecher City High School graduate. After attending the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Penwell built a career in sales and marketing within the animal health industry. Despite his professional success, he maintained a deep connection to his rural roots, fostering a passion for supporting his community.

Eligible applicants must meet several criteria, including residency in one of the qualifying counties for at least six months in the past two years. They must also plan to pursue a nursing degree at an accredited school, maintain a minimum GPA of 2.62 on a 4.0 scale or 3.1 on a 5.0 scale over their most recent three semesters, and demonstrate financial need for nursing school expenses. Additionally, candidates should have a strong record of community service, particularly in healthcare or nursing-related activities, and commit to studying nursing each semester they receive the scholarship.

Applicants are required to submit their high school or college transcripts, ACT or SAT scores (if applicable), and financial aid information.

Interested individuals can begin their application by visiting southeasternillinois.org/students and completing the Southeastern Illinois Community Foundation Common Scholarship Application.

For further details, contact Kristen Bertrand, Program Officer, at 217-342-5413 or via email at kristen@southeasternillinois.org.