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Norman G Swenson Scholarship Program 2021

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Cook County College Teachers Union Scholarship Program 2020 

Your career was committed to Community College students.  You heard their dreams and knew their challenges.  You helped them reach their goals.  Your union continues to hear their vision and thoughts every year through the Norman G Swenson (NGS) Scholarship Program:

“I am the first in my family to graduate from college and this scholarship would be an amazing first step.”

 “We are all unique in our own way, but when people choose to help each other out, it shows how beautiful our society can be.”

“I believe that people can rise above life’s hardships by seeking a better quality of life through their Community College.”

 “[I] grew up in a small village in Nepal. I have a goal to work with immigrants and refugees.”

 “[This Scholarship] would be a huge motivator to continue to work hard in school, work, and all areas of my life.”

 “It is my dream to care for patients and their families in a Chicago-area hospital.”

 “Due to family commitments, paying for school is always difficult.”

 “At age 54, I was working a hum-drum job. Through college I learned new knowledge and skills which changed my thinking and actions resulting in new life fulfilling opportunities.”

 “[I] look forward to the day when I can be the person who can inspire students to learn and grow.”

Continue your commitment to students from the Community Colleges by donating to the NGS Scholarship Fund in 2021.  Every year, Local 1600 selects and awards scholarships to 14 students, one from each college represented by CCCTU.  The Scholarship Award is based on the donations from our members.  Please be generous!  You can contribute now by clicking donate.

The COVID 19 Pandemic Is Impacting Our Students

“Due to COVID 19, my father and I are not employed.”

“Pandemic has been very difficult for me due to the lack of funds.”

In 2020 the Scholarship Program had its COVID 19 challenges.  The Scholarship application deadlines were postponed twice.  The application form requirements had to be revised to accommodate restrictions to college campuses, cancellation of outside activities, and verification of records.  Still, the need for student assistance was greater than ever.  The Scholarship Committee increased the award from $1,000 to $1,200. With the help of our Chapter Chairs, applications were submitted.  Winners were found at 12 Local 1600 colleges:  

Horace Bernabe/Daley                       Carrie Dixon/Kennedy King                 Caitlin Sobotka/Malcolm X

Mercy Ekpo/Olive Harvey                   Precious Taiwo/Truman         Argeniz Tinoco/Washington

Mahmoud Nobakhti/Wright               Nathan Malewicki/Harper                  Destiny Herrera/Morton

Jazmin Mercado/Moraine Valley                   Rashard Blakemore/Prairie State       William Nedrow/Triton

With the eventual cancellation of the Local 1600 Social Event, the Award Presentation was postponed twice.  At the October Executive Board Meeting, $14,400 of NGS Scholarship Awards were finally presented.  Through Zoom technology, we were able to see and hear the winners give heartfelt gratitude for their award.

The 2020 Program was a success with the help of 99 Generous Donors, the Local’s Rebate from Retiree Dues, and the time given by the Scholarship Committee, Chairs, and Local 1600 Staff.

“I am the part time care taker for my mom and a full time student.”

“Covid 19 pandemic has taken a toll on my mental health”

Your Donation is Needed in 2021!

After a year of the COVID 19 Pandemic, student needs are even greater.  Many of our students are experiencing financial hardships, increased caregiving, and many related COVID 19 challenges.  In response, our Scholarship Committee has increased the award from $1,200 to $1,500.  As retirees, we have been fortunate to have medical insurance, a strong pension, and a schedule permitting “sheltering” ourselves from the virus.  As we have in the past, let’s help our students in need reach their goals.

Join your Fellow Union Members in Raising Funds for the 2021 Scholarship Fund
Please be generous!  You can contribute now by clicking donate.


In appreciation for your donation, the Retiree Chapter offers you these complimentary gifts:

·        Donating $150 or more - Free Admission to the Local’s Social & Retiree Chapter Luncheon

·        Donating $75 or more – Free Admission to the Local’s Social or Retiree Chapter Luncheon

·        Donating $25 or more – small envelop sized gift

The Local’s Social is usually in May and the Retiree Chapter Luncheon is in September.  Because of COVID 19 we will be assessing the safety needed to hold these events in 2021.  Please note that any admissions owed to you from 2020 can be used in 2021 to attend both events or to bring a guest.


In Solidarity

Stay Safe and Healthy,

CCCTU Scholarship Committee:

Sal Attinello, Debra Callen, Maria Estrada, Lesa Hildebrand,

George Otto, Don Radtke, Phil Stucky, and Gail Wiot.
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Donations 

  • Stephanie Tarr
    • $150
    • 3 yrs
  • Sharon Silverman
    • $100
    • 3 yrs
  • Kathleen Hanahan
    • $50
    • 3 yrs
  • Roger Podewell
    • $75
    • 4 yrs
  • Eric Taylor
    • $40
    • 4 yrs
Donate

Organizer

Don Radtke
Organizer
Chicago, IL

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