Hillman Scholars Recognized & Welcomed at Awards Dinner
Twenty-five scholars gathered at the home of Jennifer and Tom Hillman, St. Louis Community Foundation donors, on Wednesday, June 5, 2019, to celebrate the first college graduation class of the Hillman Scholars Program and to welcome and acknowledge the newest recipients of the Hillman Scholars Award for the 2019-2020 academic school year.
The Hillman Scholars Program was established in 2015 by the Hillman Family, Jennifer and Tom Hillman along with their children Max (Abby), Ben and Natalie. This scholarship fund was created at the St. Louis Community Foundation to provide financial assistance for (10) College Bound St. Louis students each year applying to a four-year accredited college/university, and who have demonstrated financial need. The Hillman family provides gap funding for selected students through a panel reviewed application process; and provides funding not only for students’ freshman year, but continued for up to three additional years through a reapplication process.
A primary goal of the Hillman Scholars program award is to help alleviate the financial burden that many students face at the conclusion of college. In addition, to enhance each student’s college experience through enrichment and better preparation for a successful career path following college. As a family, the Hillman’s believe in the importance of a college education and providing students an equal opportunity to use their special gifts to make a difference in the world.
“Our original vision was to provide gap funding for high school students coming out of College Bound’s college prep program. What we didn’t know at the time was that the program we had developed beyond the funding has truly been a gift to our family,” said Jennifer. “Getting to know and nurture our Hillman Scholars has enriched our family beyond our original expectations; we know we have had tremendous impact of the students that are engaging with us.”
As a Hillman Scholar, students are provided opportunities to engage in special events and opportunities to engage with other scholars, as well as hear from guest speakers, receive introductions to professionals in their field of interest to expand their networking skills, and attend professional development workshops.
Since starting the program in 2015, eight students who have received the Hillman Scholars award have graduated from college and will become the first class of Hillman Scholars Alumni.
If you are a student interested in the Hillman Scholars Program, application criteria and deadlines, materials are available here.
If you are a donor interested in creating a scholarship fund at the St. Louis Community Foundation, click here.