Scholarship Awards - $2,500
Scholarship Application Deadline May 22nd, 2026
We are committed to academic advancement in the African American community and proud to continue the Chicago Defender Charities, Inc®. Bud Billiken® Scholarship Program. As the program is designed to encourage students and assist in the progression of their education, we believe this investment today will return a positive impact in our communities in the future.
REQUIREMENTS
Be a United States citizen
Resident of Illinois
Possess a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.6/4.0 scale
Open to students 17-21 years of age.
High school seniors to second year of undergraduate college
As a condition for receiving this scholarship, all recipients must attend the Chicago Defender Charities, Inc. Scholarship Recipient Meet & Greet on Friday, June 26th and the Scholarship Gala in person on Friday, July 10. Attendance at both events is mandatory. Unfortunately, if you are unable to attend either event for any reason, your scholarship will be forfeited without exception.
All Scholarship Finalists will also be required to share official Bud Billiken® hashtags on social media and post a video announcing their status as a Finalist as part of our public recognition and promotional efforts.
DOCUMENTS
Most recent official transcript
Two (2) letters of recommendation (1 academic and 1 non-relative, personal)
Proof of acceptance or enrollment in a college or university
VIDEO SUBMISSION
1-3 minute video answering the following topic:
How has your education prepared you for this rapidly changing world?
Have your educational goals changed in any way?
If so, how will those changes positively impact you, your family and your community as a whole?
Scholarship Application Deadline May 22nd, 2026
EVALUATION
Student applications are evaluated based on academic achievement, representation of community, and leadership.
Please note that members and relatives of the following are not allowed to participate in the scholarship program:
Employees of the Chicago Defender Charities, Inc®.
Members of the Board of Directors of the Chicago Defender Charities, Inc®.
Contractors of and with the Chicago Defender Charities, Inc®.
Vendors of and with the Chicago Defender Charities, Inc®.
Scholarships will be awarded at the Chicago Defender Charities, Inc. Scholarship Gala, Friday, July 10th, 2026.
