In its fourth year, CTA’s Red and Purple Modernization (RPM) scholarship program, created by CTA and RPM contractor Walsh-Fluor, helps Chicago teens pursue degrees in construction and engineering-related fields
Mayor Lori E. Lightfoot, the Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) and Chicago Public Schools (CPS) today announced that applications are now being accepted for the “CTA Elevating Futures Scholarship Fund”, an innovative program that provides a path for economically disadvantaged youth to pursue education and careers in construction and engineering.
Created in partnership with the Walsh-Fluor Design-Build team — the contractor for CTA’s historic $2.1 billion Red and Purple Modernization (RPM) Phase One Project — the scholarship program provides aid to students who plan to pursue four-year degrees in construction management, civil engineering, industrial engineering or systems engineering. Specifically, the scholarship program was created to help economically disadvantaged students to pursue an education in fields that historically create barriers for low-income students. The unique program provides $5,500 per year for four years, mentoring support and guidance in career development opportunities.
“It’s important as a city that we invest in our youth and prepare them to be leaders of tomorrow,” said Mayor Lightfoot. “This innovative scholarship program provides students from low-income backgrounds the opportunity to realize their potential to the fullest.”
“With every CTA project, we are committed to creating opportunity and promoting inclusion for Chicagoans across the city,” said CTA President Dorval R. Carter, Jr. “We are pleased to partner with Walsh-Fluor to offer these opportunities to students interested in careers in transportation, construction and engineering.”
“We are excited to offer this scholarship to our committed and talented class of 2023,” said CPS CEO Pedro Martinez. “Elevating Futures gives these students the opportunities they need to succeed and reflects a city-wide commitment to support our rising innovators and leaders.”
“These scholarship recipients are not only receiving financial and academic assistance, but they’re also getting work experience as interns in the construction and engineering fields,” Walsh-Fluor Project Executive David Shier said. “Our intent is for this program to provide everything these students need to launch successful careers.”
“The Elevating Futures Scholarship Fund has gone above and beyond to provide our financially under-resourced and first-generation Scholars with the financial supports, mentoring and internship opportunities they need for long-term success in science, technology, engineering and math,” said Jeffery Beckham, Jr., Chicago Scholars CEO. “Chicago Scholars is proud to partner with Walsh-Fluor and the CTA to deliver best-in-class opportunities for Chicago students.”
“The Elevating Futures scholarship has allowed me to bring my dream to a reality,” said Loyola University student Axel Hernandez, a past scholarship recipient. “I’ve always wanted to go to college and I want to be the first person in my family to graduate from college, and get a degree in Business Administration and create a construction business for me and my family.”
To date, eight students from across the city of Chicago, including the Back of the Yards, Bridgeport, Hegewisch, Humboldt Park, Portage Park, Rogers Park, and Austin neighborhoods, have received scholarships from the “CTA Elevating Futures Scholarship Fund,” which is administered by Chicago Scholars, a nonprofit dedicated to college access, and college-success leadership development for first-generation and low-income students in Chicago. Scholarships have been awarded to graduates of Lake View High School, Lane Tech College Prep, Gary Comer College Prep, EPIC Academy High School, William Jones College Prep, Sullivan High School, and Austin College and Career Academy.
The first-of-its-kind CTA initiative provides scholarships, mentoring support and career guidance for under-resourced college students. The scholarship program is administered by Chicago Scholars, a nonprofit dedicated to college access, college success and leadership development for first-generation and low-income students in Chicago.
This will be the fourth and final round of this scholarship. Donated by Walsh-Fluor to help offset tuition costs for CPS graduates, the $250,000 ‘CTA Elevating Futures Scholarship Fund’ will have provided 10 financial aid scholarships from 2020 through 2023. The students who are awarded scholarships are also eligible to apply for paid summer internships with Walsh-Fluor and the CTA.
Applications are due March 1, 2023. For more information about this program, visit CTA’s website or Chicago Scholars’ website.
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La alcaldesa Lightfoot, CTA y CPS anuncian que la beca “CTA Elevating Futures Scholarship Fund”
En su cuarto año, el programa de becas universitarias del proyecto de Modernización de las Líneas Roja y Morada (RPM, por sus siglas en inglés), creado por CTA y la compañía constructora del proyecto, Walsh-Fluor, ayuda a los adolescentes de Chicago a obtener títulos en carreras relacionadas con la construcción y la ingeniería
La alcaldesa Lori E. Lightfoot, la Autoridad de Tránsito de Chicago (CTA, por sus siglas en inglés), y las Escuelas Públicas de Chicago (CPS, por sus siglas en inglés) anunciaron hoy que se están aceptando solicitudes para la beca “CTA Elevating Futures Scholarship Fund”, un programa innovador que abre paso a los jóvenes desfavorecidos económicamente para que tengan estudios y carreras en construcción e ingeniería.
Creado en colaboración con el equipo de Walsh-Fluor Design-Build, la compañía constructora a cargo del histórico Proyecto de Modernización de las Líneas Roja y Morada Fase Uno (RPM) de 2,100 millones de dólares, el programa de becas brinda ayuda a estudiantes que planean obtener títulos de cuatro años en administración de la construcción, ingeniería civil, ingeniería industrial o ingeniería en sistemas. Específicamente, el programa de becas fue creado para ayudar a los estudiantes desfavorecidos económicamente a emprender una educación en campos laborales que históricamente crean barreras para los estudiantes de bajos ingresos. Este programa único proporciona $5,500 cada año durante cuatro años, apoyo de tutoría y orientación en oportunidades de desarrollo profesional.
“Es importante que la ciudad invierta en nuestros jóvenes y los prepare para que sean los líderes del mañana”, dijo la alcaldesa Lightfoot. “Este innovador programa de becas brinda a los estudiantes de bajos ingresos la oportunidad de desarrollar su potencial al máximo”.
“En cada proyecto de CTA, estamos comprometidos a crear oportunidades y promover la inclusión para los habitantes de Chicago en toda la ciudad”, dijo Dorval R. Carter, Jr., presidente de CTA. “Nos complace asociarnos con Walsh-Fluor para ofrecer estas oportunidades a los estudiantes interesados en carreras de transporte, construcción e ingeniería”.
“Nos entusiasma ofrecer esta beca a nuestra clase dedicada y talentosa de 2023”, señaló Pedro Martínez, director general de CPS. “Elevating Futures les brinda a estos estudiantes las oportunidades que necesitan para tener éxito y refleja un compromiso por parte de toda la ciudad de apoyar a nuestros líderes e innovadores del futuro”.
“Estos becarios no solo reciben asistencia financiera y académica, sino que también obtienen experiencia laboral como pasantes en los campos de la construcción y la ingeniería”, dijo David Shier, ejecutivo del proyecto de Walsh-Fluor. “Nuestra intención es que este programa proporcione todo lo que estos estudiantes necesitan para emprender carreras exitosas”.
“La beca Elevating Futures Scholarship Fund ha trabajado de manera exhaustiva para proporcionar a nuestros becarios de primera generación y de bajos recursos, los apoyos financieros, la tutoría y las oportunidades de participar en prácticas profesionales que necesitan para el éxito a largo plazo en ciencia, tecnología, ingeniería y matemáticas”, dijo Jeffrey Beckham, Jr., director ejecutivo de Chicago Scholars. “Chicago Scholars se enorgullece de asociarse con Walsh-Fluor y CTA para ofrecer las mejores oportunidades a los estudiantes de Chicago”.
“La beca Elevating Futures me ha permitido hacer realidad mi sueño”, dijo el estudiante de la Universidad de Loyola Axel Hernández, beneficiario de una beca anterior. “Siempre he querido ir a la universidad y quiero ser la primera persona en mi familia en graduarse de la universidad, obtener un título en Administración de Empresas y crear un negocio en construcción para mí y mi familia”.
CTA Elevating Futures Scholarship Fund es la primera iniciativa de CTA de su tipo y hasta la fecha ha proporcionado becas a ocho estudiantes a través de la ciudad de Chicago, incluyendo residentes de los vecindarios del Barrio de las Empacadoras, Bridgeport, Hegewisch, Humboldt Park, Portage Park, Rogers Park y Austin. El programa es administrado por Chicago Scholars, una organización sin fines de lucro dedicada al acceso a la universidad, el éxito universitario y el desarrollo de liderazgo para estudiantes de primera generación y de bajos ingresos en Chicago. Se han otorgado becas a graduados de Lake View High School, Lane Tech College Prep, Gary Comer College Prep, EPIC Academy, William Jones College Prep, Sullivan High School y Austin College and Career Academy.
Esta será la cuarta y última ronda de esta beca de $250,000, donada por Walsh-Fluor para ayudar a compensar los costos de las colegiaturas de los graduados de CPS. La beca CTA Elevating Futures Scholarship Fund habrá proporcionado 10 becas de ayuda financiera desde 2020 hasta 2023. Los estudiantes que reciben becas también son elegibles para solicitar prácticas profesionales de verano pagadas, en Walsh-Fluor y CTA.
Las solicitudes serán aceptadas hasta el 1.o de marzo de 2023. Para obtener más información sobre este programa, visite el sitio web de CTA o el sitio web de Chicago Scholars.
Mayor Lori E. Lightfoot, CTA President Dorval R. Carter, Jr., CPS CEO Pedro Martinez and Walsh-Fluor Design-Build Team announced today that two Chicago Public School seniors have been awarded scholarships from the “CTA Elevating Futures Scholarship Fund,” a program that provides financial assistance to CPS students who want to pursue construction and engineering-related college educations.
This scholarship program, created by CTA and Red and Purple Modernization (RPM) contractor Walsh-Fluor Design-Build Team, provides $5,500 each year for four years to economically disadvantaged students who plan to pursue studies in Science, Technology, Engineering, or Math (STEM) for engineering and construction-related degrees. The scholarship was launched in 2020 as part of the historic $2.1 billion RPM project.
This first-of-its-kind CTA initiative provides scholarships, mentoring support and career guidance for under-resourced college students. The scholarship program is administered by Chicago Scholars, a nonprofit dedicated to college access, college success and leadership development for first-generation and low-income students in Chicago.
This year’s winners will join six other CPS students who won the scholarship in past years and are now pursuing degrees in the construction and engineering fields. Project contractor Walsh-Fluor is sponsoring the scholarships. Scholarship recipients also can apply for paid internships on the RPM project.
“Investing in our youth is a critical step to strengthening our communities,” said Chicago Mayor Lori E. Lightfoot. “I congratulate our scholarship recipients who represent the best of our city and will shape our bright future. Our entire city is proud of them and their accomplishments.”
“The ‘CTA Elevating Futures Scholarship Fund,’ reflects our city’s commitment to our future leaders,” CPS CEO Pedro Martinez said. “We will continue to seek innovative partnerships that increase the number of opportunities for Chicago youth.”
“We strongly believe that all CTA projects are opportunities to lift up our communities and invest in our neighbors,” said CTA President Dorval R. Carter, Jr. “Students pursuing careers in transportation, construction and engineering are important for our city and our industry, and we applaud these individuals for taking this important step toward their futures.”
“Since its inception, the ‘CTA Elevating Futures Scholarship Fund’ has helped shape the future of many Chicago Scholars interested in pursuing higher education or careers in the ever-evolving fields of transportation, construction and engineering. We are incredibly grateful for the ongoing support of the City of Chicago, the Chicago Transit Authority, Chicago Public Schools and Walsh-Fluor,” said Jeffery Beckham Jr., CEO of Chicago Scholars. “Working alongside community leaders with the common goal of supporting our Chicago Scholars is a great honor and allows us to continue carrying out our mission.”
“What makes this program unique is the ongoing support each of our scholars receives,” said Walsh-Fluor Design-Build Team Project Executive Dave Shier. “We are truly invested in their success.”
“The Elevating Futures Scholarship has really helped me by supporting me financially and enabling me to further pursue a bachelor’s degree in business administration & management at Loyola University Chicago,” said Axel Hernandez, a current Elevating Futures Scholarship recipient.
The 2022 CTA Elevating Futures Scholars are:
Patrick Muyenzi, 19, Rogers Park
Patrick is graduating at the top of his class at Sullivan High School, where he has taken many honors classes and received recognition for his outstanding academic performance. A student-athlete, Patrick has been an active member of the school’s soccer and volleyball teams, and he enjoys discovering the city through his involvement with the West Town Bike Program. Patrick is also engaged in his local community, having served as an intern at his alderwoman’s office, consistently sharing his professionalism and intelligence when assisting constituents. Teachers and supervisors commend Patrick’s curiosity, thoughtfulness, drive, and leadership skills.
Patrick plans to become an engineer, believing science can address almost any problem in the world. When he was younger, Patrick and his family lived in a refugee camp in Uganda after fleeing Congo for a better life. It was in the refugee camp where he taught himself how to construct a “do-it-yourself” flashlight, due to the lack of electricity there. This inspired him to pursue a degree in electrical engineering to learn how to build sustainable energy solutions. Patrick will be entering the College of Engineering at the University of Wisconsin-Madison in the fall.
Freddy Romero, 18, Austin
Freddy Romero attends Austin College and Career Academy, where he is valedictorian of his class. A well-rounded and hardworking student, he has excelled academically and received the Austin Math, Music and Art Awards. Outside of school, he has participated in various STEM-related activities, such as Project Exploration, the EXIGENT Pre-Calculus program, After School Matters’ Woods and Walls program, Code Next and Youth Chicago Apprentice, where he currently works in repairing technology used in CPS.
Freddy’s goal is to become a mechanical engineer so he can improve technology and machinery that can assist those with disabilities. He also hopes to improve his community in the future by creating a “Re-Start” enrichment program that would enable young people to discover their paths. Freddy is held in high esteem by his teachers, who commend his character, focus, and determination. Freddy will be enrolling in the pre-engineering program at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, where he plans to major in mechanical engineering or computer science.
For more information about this program, visit CTA’s website or Chicago Scholars’ website.
Treasurer Frerichs Expands Access to Higher Education
Treasurer’s Office Celebrates ‘529 Day’ to Increase Awareness of 529 College Savings Plans Among All Illinois Families
On May 29, Illinois State Treasurer Michael Frerichs’ office will celebrate ‘529 Day’ to increase awareness of the state’s highly-rated 529 College Savings plans – Bright Start and Bright Directions – in an effort to provide all Illinois families with greater access to higher education.
“We want to enable families to save for their children’s higher education and be comfortable investing their hard-earned dollars in a college savings plan,” said Michael Frerichs, Illinois State Treasurer. “We understand the desire parents have to save for their children’s future, as well as the potential apprehension to invest in college savings plans; therefore, my office has enhanced our 529 plans that offer a variety of investment options and flexibility for families.”
Treasurer Frerichs aims for all families to save for their children’s future. In Illinois, families with children are increasingly diverse. Today, hundreds of thousands of African American, Hispanic, and Asian children are enrolled in Illinois public universities and community colleges. In the future, the percentage of Illinois university and community college students from diverse backgrounds is only expected to rise. As such, the Illinois State Treasurer’s Office aims to help all families – from a wide variety of backgrounds – save for college.
Since first being elected in 2014, Treasurer Frerichs has worked to establish Bright Start and Bright Directions as two of the most accessible and affordable 529 plans in the country by cutting costs and eliminating annual account fees, minimum contributions and minimum balances.
These efforts have helped more and more Illinois families – from a range of incomes, ethnicities and races – to start saving for college. From 2015-2021, the growth rate of new IL 529 College Savings accounts opened by families making less than $30,000 annually increased by 81% and new accounts from families making $30,000-$49,000 increased by 76%. Over that same period, new accounts opened by Hispanic families increased 68% while African American new accounts increased by 51%.
To open an account, all you need is to be at least 18 years old, a Social Security Number (SSN) or an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) and a valid U.S. mailing address. Anyone can contribute to an account, and there are no enrollment fees, minimum contribution or minimum balance requirements to open or maintain an account. Furthermore, earnings are free from federal and state taxes if used for qualified education expenses, and up to $10,000 in contributions ($20,000 for married couples filing jointly) to an account are eligible for an Illinois income tax deduction. With Bright Start, you don’t even need a financial advisor, and it takes just approximately 10 minutes to open an account online.
To learn more about how to save for your child’s higher education through Illinois’ 29 College Savings plans, visit www.illinoistreasurer.gov. For more information about Bright Start, visit www.BrightStart.com, and for more information about Bright Directions, visit www.BrightDirections.com.
In its second year, CTA’s Red and Purple Modernization (RPM) scholarship program, created by CTA and RPM Phase One contractor Walsh-Fluor, helps Chicago youth pursue degrees in construction and engineering-related fields
Mayor Lori E. Lightfoot, CTA President Dorval R. Carter, Jr. and CPS CEO Dr. Janice Jackson announced today that three Chicago Public School seniors have been named recipients of the “CTA Elevating Futures Scholarship Fund”, launched by CTA and the Red and Purple Modernization (RPM) Phase One project contractor Walsh-Fluor in 2020.
The scholarship program provides $5,500 per year for four years to economically disadvantaged students who plan to pursue studies in Science, Technology, Engineering, Math (STEM) for engineering and construction-related degrees.
“Now more than ever, we must continue to provide gainful and enriching opportunities for our young people—who have suffered so much over the course of this pandemic,” said Mayor Lightfoot. “This innovative scholarship program will serve as the city’s latest youth enrichment initiative and give our young people access to financial aid and mentorship support as they pursue academic excellence. I want to thank our partners at CPS and the CTA for continuing to invest in the lives of our youth and providing them with the resources they need to build successful careers and participate in our city’s economic vibrancy.”
“At CTA, we are committed to investments in the communities we serve in addition to making important investments in our infrastructure to improve our service for customers,” said CTA President Dorval R. Carter, Jr. “By partnering with our contractor Walsh-Fluor, these scholarships open doors for students who might not otherwise be able to afford college, and giving them the chance to pursue education and build careers in the construction and engineering fields.”
“Ensuring students have the ability to attend college and pursue their dreams is an important step in achieving equity in public education,” said CPS CEO, Dr. Janice K. Jackson. “The ‘CTA Elevating Futures Scholarship Fund,’ will help ensure that students who want to pursue their career dreams don’t encounter a financial barrier when entering college. This scholarship is an important resource for our students and I want to thank the CTA for championing Chicago’s most deserving students.”
“After such a challenging year, we are pleased to build on last year’s success with three scholarship recipients,” said Dave Shier, Walsh-Fluor RPM Project Executive. “Our first-year scholarship recipients will be getting work experience this summer as interns in the construction and engineering fields.”
“The ‘CTA Elevating Futures Scholarship Fund’ has been a pivotal opportunity for our Chicago Scholars engaging in STEM education and careers. In a year when financial support for higher education, as well as career training, has been limited, we are grateful for the ongoing support of the City of Chicago, the Chicago Transit Authority, Chicago Public Schools and Walsh-Fluor to these students,” said Jeffery Beckham, Jr., CEO of Chicago Scholars. “We are proud to create pathways alongside community leaders for our Chicago Scholars who are committed to the pursuit of higher education.”
The program was created in 2020 as part of the CTA’s historic $2.1 billion Red and Purple Modernization Phase One (RPM) project. Last year three students were awarded scholarships as well, with each student now pursuing degrees in the construction and engineering fields. Project contractor Walsh-Fluor Design-Build team is sponsoring the scholarships and making paid internships on the RPM project available to scholarship recipients.
The first-of-its-kind CTA initiative provides scholarships, mentoring support and career guidance for under-resourced college students. The scholarship program is administered by Chicago Scholars, a nonprofit dedicated to college access, college success, and leadership development for first-generation and low-income students in Chicago.
Donated by Walsh-Fluor to help offset tuition costs for CPS graduates, the $250,000 ‘CTA Elevating Futures Scholarship Fund’ will provide 10 financial aid scholarships from 2020 through 2023 for students who plan on majoring in science, technology, engineering, math (STEM) for engineering and construction-related degrees. Students who are awarded scholarships will also be eligible to apply for paid summer internships with Walsh-Fluor and the CTA.
The 2021 CTA Elevating Futures Scholars are:
Sabine Ramirez, 18, Hegewisch
Sabine is the top-ranked student in her class at EPIC Academy High School, where she has taken an advanced course load, including many AP and honors classes. She is passionate about mechanical engineering and plans to pursue a career in the field. Ultimately, Sabine would like to create solutions with STEM for disparities in our world. She loves the design element of engineering and has been able to explore this through various STEM programs including Project Syncere. Her ultimate goal is to become the head engineer of her entrepreneurial project to create a new generation of self-reparative robots designed for industrial and military settings and workspaces. Sabine would like to support increased STEM education in elementary schools by developing robotics kits for entry-level STEM learning. Teachers note that Sabine is a role model for her classmates, demonstrating strong intelligence, deep curiosity, positivity and a tireless work ethic. Sabine has been admitted to engineering programs at Purdue, the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, the University of Michigan and Boston University, and is currently finalizing her college decision.
Ricky Ho, 17, Bridgeport
Ricky attends William Jones College Prep, where he has followed a four-year, pre-engineering course, taking advanced computer science and math classes, along with honors civil engineering and architecture. Ricky is a dedicated student who has always been passionate about computers. He believes the endless possibilities in computer science allow us to solve issues in any industry, and he aspires to work for a large tech company developing solutions utilizing artificial intelligence. In particular, he is interested in creating improvements in transportation safety through autonomous driving. Ricky has explored web development and coding through camps and internships which have taught him valuable technical skills and fueled his love for computers. Teachers commend Ricky for his hard work, problem-solving abilities and positive influence on others. Ricky will be pursuing a degree in computer science at the University of Michigan.
Axel Hernandez, 19, Back of the Yards
Axel attends William Jones College Prep, where he has taken a rigorous course load, including four AP classes in his senior year. He plans to pursue a career in business administration and management to create a better future for himself and his community. Axel has been working for his family’s construction company since he was 15 years old. Guided by his father, he is learning about the business and taking on an increasing amount of management responsibilities. Plus, he has been developing his business skills through freelance visual art and video production work with various companies and gaming organizations. At school, Axel is involved in several organizations, including the Minority Leaders of Impact club, which seeks to empower minority students through service and diverse programming. Axel is determined, creative and hard working. Always prepared, he seeks to maximize efficiency in order to achieve his goals. Axel has been admitted to the schools of business at both Loyola University Chicago and DePaul University, and is currently finalizing his college decision.
For more information about this program, visit CTA’s web site at transitchicago.com/rpm/workforce-opportunities or Chicago Scholars’ web site at chicagoscholars.org/elevatingfutures.
La alcaldesa Lightfoot, CTA y CPS anuncian a los estudiantes ganadores de la beca “CTA Elevating Futures Scholarship Fund” del ciclo 2021-2022
En su segundo año, el programa de becas del Proyecto de Modernización de las Líneas Roja y Morada (RPM, por sus siglas en inglés) de CTA, creado por CTA junto con Walsh-Fluor, la compañía constructora del proyecto RPM Fase Uno, ayuda a los jóvenes de Chicago a estudiar para obtener títulos en carreras de construcción e ingeniería
Lori E. Lightfoot, alcaldesa de Chicago; Dorval R. Carter Jr., presidente de CTA; y la Dra. Janice Jackson, directora general de CPS, anunciaron que tres estudiantes del último año de preparatoria de las Escuelas Públicas de Chicago (CPS) fueron nombrados beneficiarios de la beca “CTA Elevating Futures Scholarship Fund”, lanzada en el año 2020 por CTA en conjunto con Walsh-Fluor, la compañía constructora del Proyecto de Modernización de las Líneas Roja y Morada (RPM) Fase Uno.
El programa de becas proporciona 5,500 dólares al año durante cuatro años a estudiantes desfavorecidos económicamente que planean estudiar carreras de ciencia, tecnología, ingeniería o matemáticas (CTIM) para obtener un título en los campos de la ingeniería o la construcción.
“Ahora más que nunca, debemos seguir brindando oportunidades provechosas y enriquecedoras a nuestros jóvenes, quienes han sufrido mucho durante esta pandemia” señaló la alcaldesa Lightfoot. “Este innovador programa de becas funcionará como la más reciente iniciativa de enriquecimiento educativo para la juventud de la ciudad y le dará a nuestros jóvenes acceso a ayuda financiera y apoyo de mentores mientras se dedican a la excelencia académica. Quiero agradecer a nuestros socios en CPS y CTA por continuar invirtiendo en las vidas de nuestros jóvenes y por brindarles los recursos que necesitan para desarrollar profesiones exitosas y participar en el dinamismo económico de nuestra ciudad”, añadió.
“En CTA nos comprometemos a invertir en las comunidades que servimos, además de realizar inversiones importantes en nuestra infraestructura para mejorar el servicio a nuestros clientes”, declaró Dorval R. Carter, Jr., presidente de CTA. “Al asociarnos con la compañía constructora Walsh-Fluor, estas becas abren la puerta a estudiantes que de otra forma no podrían cubrir el costo de una educación universitaria, dándoles la oportunidad de dedicarse a estudiar y desarrollar carreras en los campos de la construcción y la ingeniería”.
“Asegurar que los estudiantes puedan ir a la universidad y dedicarse a la profesión de sus sueños es un paso importante para lograr la equidad en la educación pública”, dijo la Dra. Janice K. Jackson, Directora General de CPS. La beca ‘CTA Elevating Futures Scholarship Fund’ ayudará a asegurar que los estudiantes que quieren dedicarse a su profesión ideal no se enfrenten a una barrera financiera al entrar a la universidad. Esta beca es un recurso importante para nuestros estudiantes y quiero agradecer a CTA por impulsar a los estudiantes de Chicago que más se lo merecen”.
“Tras un año lleno de retos, nos da mucho gusto seguir con el éxito del año pasado, otorgando tres becas más”, mencionó Dave Shier, ejecutivo de Walsh-Fluor, la compañía constructora del proyecto RPM. “Los recipientes del primer año de nuestra beca obtendrán experiencia laboral este verano al realizar prácticas profesionales en las áreas de construcción e ingeniería”.
“La beca ‘CTA Elevating Futures Scholarship Fund’ ha sido una oportunidad clave para nuestros alumnos becados de Chicago que se dedican a las carreras de CTIM. En un año en el que el apoyo financiero para la educación superior y el entrenamiento profesional han sido limitados, estamos muy agradecidos con la Ciudad de Chicago, la Autoridad de Tránsito de Chicago, las Escuelas Públicas de Chicago y Walsh-Fluor, por su apoyo continuo a estos estudiantes”, declaró Jeffery Beckham, Jr., director general de Chicago Scholars. “Estamos orgullosos de abrir caminos junto con varios líderes de la comunidad para los alumnos becados de Chicago que están comprometidos con obtener una educación superior”.
El programa fue creado en 2020 como parte del histórico proyecto de 2,100 millones de dólares de CTA, el Proyecto de Modernización de las Líneas Roja y Morada Fase Uno. El año pasado, otros tres estudiantes recibieron becas, y cada uno de ellos está estudiando para obtener un título en los campos de la construcción y la ingeniería. La compañía constructora del proyecto, Walsh-Fluor Design-Build, patrocina las becas y ofrece prácticas profesionales pagadas en el proyecto RPM disponibles para los beneficiarios de la beca.
Esta iniciativa de CTA, la primera en su tipo, proporciona becas, orientación profesional y el apoyo de mentores para estudiantes universitarios de bajos ingresos. El programa de becas es administrado por Chicago Scholars, una organización sin fines de lucro dedicada al acceso a la universidad, el éxito universitario y el desarrollo de liderazgo para estudiantes de primera generación y de bajos ingresos en Chicago.
Walsh-Fluor donó 250,000 dólares al “CTA Elevating Futures Scholarship Fund” con el fin de compensar los costos de las colegiaturas universitarias para los graduados de CPS. Los fondos permitirán proporcionar, en el período comprendido entre 2020 y 2023, diez becas de ayuda financiera a estudiantes que planean estudiar ciencia, tecnología, ingeniería o matemáticas (CTIM) para obtener títulos de ingeniería o construcción. Los estudiantes que reciban becas también serán elegibles para solicitar prácticas profesionales de verano pagadas tanto en Walsh-Fluor como en CTA.
Los CTA Elevating Futures Scholars son:
Sabine Ramirez, 18, Hegewisch
Sabine es la alumna más destacada de su clase en EPIC Academy High School, donde ha tomado una serie de cursos avanzados, incluyendo muchos cursos AP (de colocación avanzada) y de mención honorífica. Le apasiona la ingeniería mecánica y planea dedicarse a una profesión dentro de dicha área. A Sabine le gustaría crear soluciones para las desigualdades de nuestro mundo a través de CTIM. Dentro de la ingeniería, le encanta el diseño; y ha podido explorar esta área a través de varios programas CTIM, entre los cuales se encuentra Project Syncere. Su meta principal es llegar a ser la ingeniera líder de su propio proyecto emprendedor para crear una nueva generación de robots autoreparadores, diseñados para espacios y lugares de trabajo industriales y militares. A Sabine le gustaría apoyar el incremento de la educación CTIM en escuelas primarias a través del desarrollo de kits robóticos para el aprendizaje STEM de nivel básico. Sus maestros han señalado que Sabine es un modelo a seguir para sus compañeros de clase, ya que demuestra gran inteligencia y curiosidad, una actitud positiva y una ética de trabajo incansable. Sabine ha sido aceptada en programas de ingeniería en Purdue, la Universidad de Illinois en Urbana-Champaign, la Universidad de Michigan y Boston University; actualmente está decidiendo a qué universidad asistir.
Ricky Ho, 17, Bridgeport
Ricky va a la escuela William Jones College Prep, donde ha cursado un programa de cuatro años de, preingeniería, tomando cursos avanzados de ciencias de la computación y matemáticas, así como cursos de mención honorífica de arquitectura e ingeniería civil. Ricky es un estudiante aplicado al que siempre le han apasionado las computadoras; cree que las posibilidades infinitas en las ciencias de la computación nos permiten solucionar problemas en cualquier industria, y aspira a trabajar en una compañía de tecnología desarrollando soluciones que utilicen inteligencia artificial. Le interesa mucho mejorar la seguridad del transporte a través del manejo de vehículos autónomos. Ricky ha explorado las áreas de desarrollo web y la programación en campamentos y prácticas profesionales que le han enseñado valiosas habilidades técnicas y aumentado su gusto por las computadoras. Diversos maestros elogian a Ricky por su esfuerzo, su habilidad para resolver problemas y su influencia positiva en otros. Ricky estudiará para obtener un título en ciencias de la computación en la Universidad de Michigan.
Axel Hernandez, 19, Back of the Yards
Axel va a la escuela William Jones College Prep, donde ha elegido una serie de cursos avanzados rigurosos, incluyendo cuatro cursos AP (de colocación avanzada) en su último año. Planea emprender una carrera en administración de empresas para crear un mejor futuro para él y su comunidad. Axel ha trabajado para la compañía constructora de su familia desde que tenía 15 años. Guiado por su padre, está aprendiendo sobre el negocio y adquiriendo cada vez más responsabilidades gerenciales. Además, ha estado desarrollando habilidades para los negocios a través de su trabajo independiente de artes visuales y producción de videos con varias compañías y organizaciones de videojuegos. En su escuela, Axel participa activamente en varias organizaciones, entre las que se encuentra el club “Minority Leaders of Impact”, el cual busca empoderar a estudiantes de minorías a través del servicio y la diversidad en la programación. Axel es decidido, creativo y esmerado. Siempre está preparado y busca maximizar la eficiencia para alcanzar sus metas. Axel ha sido aceptado en las escuelas de negocios de Loyola University Chicago y DePaul University, y actualmente está decidiendo a cuál universidad asistir.
Para más información sobre este programa, favor de visitar el sitio web de CTA en transitchicago.com/rpm/workforce-opportunities o el sitio web de Chicago Scholars en chicagoscholars.org/elevatingfutures
In partnership with Red and Purple Modernization (RPM) contractor Walsh-Fluor and non-profit Chicago Scholars, CTA opens college scholarship program for low-income Chicago youth in program’s second year
CHICAGO – Mayor Lightfoot, the Chicago Transit Authority (CTA), and Chicago Public Schools (CPS) recently announced that new applications are now being accepted for the “CTA Elevating Futures Scholarship Fund”, an innovative program that provides a path for economically disadvantaged youth to pursue education and careers in construction and engineering.
Created in partnership with the Walsh-Fluor Design-Build team — the contractor for CTA’s historic $2.1 billion Red and Purple Modernization (RPM) Phase One Project — the scholarship program provides aid to students who plan to pursue four-year degrees in construction management, civil engineering, industrial engineering or systems engineering.
“It’s important that as a city we continue to invest in our youth and prepare them for the future,” said Mayor Lightfoot. “The CTA’s innovative scholarship program provides opportunity to hard-working students from low-income backgrounds, helping them achieve their potential in an especially challenging world.”
“With every CTA project, we are committed to creating opportunity and inclusion for Chicagoans across the city,” said CTA President Dorval R. Carter, Jr. “With potential future labor shortages in these industries, there is a growing opportunity for our youth to enter occupational fields in which they have been historically underrepresented.”
The “CTA Elevating Futures Scholarship Fund” was created by CTA in 2019 and is now in its second year. Walsh-Fluor is funding the program with $250,000 for 10 scholarships between 2020 and 2023. Students who are awarded scholarships are also eligible to apply for paid summer internships with Walsh-Fluor. The program is administered by Chicago Scholars, a mentoring and leadership development organization that helps first-generation college students and students from under-resourced communities navigate transitions into college, through college and on to careers.
“We have so many students who work hard and are committed to their education and need financial assistance to achieve their dreams,” said CPS CEO Dr. Janice K. Jackson. “The ‘CTA Elevating Futures Scholarship Fund,’ lessens the barriers they face and gives them the opportunities they need to succeed, especially during such difficult times.”
“Chicago Scholars is proud to partner with the CTA and Walsh-Fluor and create important opportunities for CPS students through the ‘CTA Elevating Futures Scholarship Fund’,” said Jeffery Beckham Jr., Chicago Scholars Interim CEO. “This fund will elevate opportunities for our financially under-resourced and first-generation Scholars beyond college access as they continue on the path to becoming young professionals and leaders within Chicago’s STEM industry.”
Program details and timeline
- The application period opened Dec. 10, 2020 and applications will be due March 1, 2021. To apply, click here.
- Up to three scholarships will be awarded of $5,500 a year for four years per winner.
- Scholarship winners will be announced on April 15, 2021.
- Eligible students must be enrolled in a CPS or CPS-supported high school and currently part of the Chicago Scholars program. Chicago Scholars recruits from all 77 community areas of the city and has student representation from 75 CPS and CPS-supported high schools.
- Eligible students must be enrolled in STEM coursework, have a grade point average of at least 3.0, and have a good attendance record.
In 2020, three CPS students were awarded scholarships. Learn more about them here and check out a video of them here.
La beca “CTA Elevating Futures Scholarship Fund” ya está aceptando solicitudes
En alianza con Walsh-Fluor, compañía constructora del Programa de Modernización de las Líneas Roja y Morada (RPM, por sus siglas in inglés) y la organización sin fines de lucro Chicago Scholars, CTA abre el programa de becas universitarias para jóvenes de bajos ingresos de Chicago en el segundo año del programa
CHICAGO – La alcaldesa Lightfoot, la Autoridad de Tránsito de Chicago (CTA), y las Escuelas Públicas de Chicago (CPS) anunciaron el pasado 29 de diciembre que ya están aceptando nuevas solicitudes para la beca “CTA Elevating Futures Scholarship Fund”, un programa innovador que brinda una opción a los jóvenes desfavorecidos económicamente para que puedan emprender su educación y estudiar carreras de construcción e ingeniería.
Creada en conjunto con el equipo de Walsh-Fluor Design-Build, la compañía constructora a cargo del histórico proyecto de 2,100 millones de dólares de CTA, el Proyecto de Modernización de las Líneas Roja y Morada Fase Uno de CTA (RPM), el programa de becas proporciona ayuda financiera a estudiantes que planean estudiar carreras de cuatro años de administración de la construcción, ingeniería civil, ingeniería industrial o ingeniería en sistemas.
“Es importante que en nuestra ciudad sigamos invirtiendo en nuestros jóvenes y preparándolos para el futuro”, declaró la alcaldesa Lightfoot. “Este innovador programa de becas de CTA brinda oportunidades a estudiantes diligentes de bajos ingresos, ayudándoles a desarrollar su potencial en un mundo lleno de retos”.
“En cada proyecto de CTA, nos comprometemos a crear oportunidades y una mayor inclusión para los habitantes de Chicago por toda la ciudad”, señaló Dorval R. Carter Jr., Presidente de CTA. “Debido a la posible escasez de mano de obra en estas industrias en el futuro, existe una oportunidad cada vez más amplia para que nuestra juventud tenga acceso a ocupaciones en las que no han tenido suficiente representación en el pasado”.
La beca “CTA Elevating Futures Scholarship Fund” fue creada por CTA en 2019 y este es su segundo año. Walsh-Fluor está financiando el programa con 250,000 dólares para 10 becas entre 2020 y 2023. Los estudiantes a los que les otorgan una beca también califican para solicitar prácticas profesionales de verano pagadas con Walsh-Fluor. El programa lo administra Chicago Scholars, una organización de desarrollo de mentores y líderes que ayuda a estudiantes universitarios de primera generación y a estudiantes de comunidades de bajos recursos con la transición a la universidad, los cambios durante la universidad y la transición a carreras profesionales.
“Tenemos muchos estudiantes muy dedicados y comprometidos con su educación que requieren ayuda financiera para cumplir sus sueños”, declaró la Dra. Janice K. Jackson, Directora General de CPS. La beca ‘CTA Elevating Futures Scholarship Fund’ atenúa los obstáculos a los que se enfrentan y les brinda las oportunidades que necesitan para alcanzar el éxito, especialmente durante tiempos tan difíciles como los actuales”.
“En Chicago Scholars estamos orgullosos de aliarnos con CTA y Walsh-Fluor para crear oportunidades importantes para los estudiantes de CPS a través la beca ‘CTA Elevating Futures Scholarship Fund’”, dijo Jeffery Beckham Jr., Director General Provisional de Chicago Scholars. “Esta beca ampliará las oportunidades para nuestros estudiantes de bajos recursos y de primera generación más allá del acceso a la universidad, conforme sigan su camino a convertirse en jóvenes profesionales y líderes en las industrias CTIM de Chicago”.
Detalles y cronología del programa
- El período de solicitud comenzó el 10 de diciembre de 2020 y la fecha límite para las solicitudes es el 1.o de marzo de 2021. Para hacer una solicitud haga clic aquí.
- Serán otorgadas hasta tres becas de 5,500 dólares al año durante cuatro años para cada ganador.
- Se anunciarán los ganadores de las becas el 15 de abril de 2021.
- Los estudiantes elegibles deben estar inscritos en una escuela preparatoria de CPS o respaldada por CPS y deben ser parte del programa Chicago Scholars actualmente. Chicago Scholars recluta estudiantes de las 77 áreas comunitarias de la ciudad y tiene una representación estudiantil de 75 escuelas preparatorias de CPS o respaldadas por CPS.
- Los estudiantes elegibles deben estar inscritos en materias de CTIM, tener un promedio (GPA) de al menos 3.0 y tener un buen registro de asistencia.
En 2020, tres estudiantes de CPS recibieron becas; vea un video sobre ellos aquí.
CTA, RPM Contractor Walsh-Fluor and Chicago Scholars in 2020 Launched RPM Scholarship Program to Help Youth Pursue Education and Careers in Construction
Mayor Lori E. Lightfoot, CTA President Dorval R. Carter, Jr. and CPS CEO Dr. Janice Jackson announced today that three recent Chicago Public School graduates have been named recipients of the “CTA Elevating Futures Scholarship Fund”, the first students to be awarded these scholarships since the program was launched earlier this year [link to video]. 
The scholarship program provides $5,500 per year for four years to economically disadvantaged students who plan to pursue studies in Science, Technology, Engineering, Math (STEM) for engineering and construction-related degrees.
“As Chicago faces multiple challenges, now more than ever we must continue to find ways to increase equitable access to opportunity for all of our youth,” said Mayor Lightfoot. “Innovative programs like this scholarship program help give the financial and mentoring support these outstanding students need and prepare them to build careers and participate in our city’s economic vibrancy.”
“From the very start, the RPM project has been about making a better future for all Chicagoans: residents, riders, businesses and the workforce,” said CTA President Dorval R. Carter, Jr. “This program moves us closer to that goal by offering these remarkable students with the opportunity to pursue education and build careers in the construction and engineering fields.”
“Every CPS graduate deserves to be able to follow their postsecondary dreams without facing an insurmountable financial barrier,” said CPS CEO Dr. Janice K. Jackson. “Through the ‘CTA Elevating Futures Scholarship Fund,’ the CTA and Walsh-Fluor are providing a helping hand to some of our city’s hardest-working young adults.”
“We are proud of these three students and the work they’ve accomplished,” said Dave Shier, Walsh-Fluor RPM Project Executive. “We hope this scholarship not only brightens their present, but enables them to lead tomorrow’s engineering fields and truly become the city of Chicago’s next generation of homegrown leaders.”
“The commitment provided to Chicago Scholars’ students through the ‘CTA Elevating Futures Scholarship Fund’ is a game changer. Not only does it provide important financial support, it is proof that Chicago’s leaders see these three students as the leaders of tomorrow,” said Dominique Jordan Turner, CEO of Chicago Scholars. “We are proud of these students, and all of our Scholars, who are continuing to commit to their futures and education in these uncertain times.”
The program was created as part of the CTA’s historic $2.1 billion Red and Purple Modernization Phase One (RPM) project. Project contractor Walsh-Fluor Design-Build team is sponsoring the scholarships and making paid internships on the RPM project available to scholarship recipients.
The first-of-its-kind CTA initiative provides scholarships, mentoring support and career guidance for under-resourced college students. The scholarship program is administered by Chicago Scholars, a nonprofit dedicated to college access, college success, and leadership development for first-generation and low-income students in Chicago.
Donated by Walsh-Fluor to help offset tuition costs for CPS graduates, the $250,000 ‘CTA Elevating Futures Scholarship Fund’ will provide 10 financial aid scholarships from 2020 through 2023 for students who plan on majoring in construction management, civil engineering, industrial or systems engineering. Students who are awarded scholarships will also be eligible to apply for paid summer internships with Walsh-Fluor and the CTA.
The 2020 CTA Elevating Futures Scholars, featured in a video here, are:
Jorge Vargas, 17, Humboldt Park
Jorge graduated near the top of his class at Lake View High School and will pursue a degree in civil engineering at the University of Illinois at Chicago. He is passionate about engineering and fell in love with trains as a young child, when he would travel back and forth between New York and Chicago on the Amtrak. He believes the innovative power that civil engineers have can be of immense benefit to society, and he hopes to use his engineering skills for positive social impact. In the future, he aspires to combine his interest in civil engineering with his entrepreneurial spirit by developing an international high-speed transit company that works to combat climate change. His goals also include providing more accessible and affordable transportation around the city in order to address needs in transportation deserts and promote economic development.
Other recipients:
Jasmine Jackson, 18, Greater Grand Crossing neighborhood
Jasmine ranked first in her class of nearly 200 students at Noble Street Charter – Gary Comer College Prep and will study engineering at Howard University. Her goal is to become a civil engineer because it will allow her to merge her two passions: math and art. She loves the challenge of solving a difficult math problem and the satisfaction of expressing her creativity through art. As a civil engineer, she will bring her creative side to her projects while ensuring everything is mathematically correct. Jasmine plans to use her profession to make the world a better place, for example, by starting a program that would build tiny homes for people who are experiencing homelessness.
George Vintila, 18, Portage Park
After excelling at Lane Tech College Prep in advanced courses such as AP Physics C Electricity and Mechanics, AP Calculus BC, and AP Computer Science, George will be studying computer engineering at the Illinois Institute of Technology this fall. He believes that engineers hold the power to implement ideas to help ease economic inequality. He is excited about what he will learn through studying engineering in college and hopes that his efforts “will contribute to a cycle, where new students learn to engineer and apply their new-found proficiency to help others in need, who will then learn and do the same thing.” At school, George tutored other students through the Physics Club and focused on promoting renewable energies and recycling through the Environmental Club.
For more information about this program, visit CTA’s web site at transitchicago.com/rpm/workforce-opportunities or Chicago Scholars’ website at chicagoscholars.org/elevatingfutures.
For eligible freshmen, new aid program would help fully cover 2020-21 tuition, fees
Illinois high school students who graduate this coming spring with a 3.0 cumulative GPA or above might now be able to reap the benefits of a generous financial aid program at Northern Illinois University.
The new Huskie Pledge aims to make NIU more affordable for Illinois families with household incomes of $75,000 or less. For qualifying full-time students, the Huskie Pledge Program will provide a grant to help completely cover first-year tuition and general fees.
“Our Huskie Pledge is yet another step toward our goal of making a life-changing NIU education affordable and accessible to as many students as possible,” said NIU President Lisa Freeman, who announced the program during her Oct. 22 State of the University address. “If you’re a hard-working student, we want to help you succeed at NIU and beyond.”
Determined after factoring in a qualifying student’s initial institutional, federal and state aid (including Pell Grants and Monetary Award Program grants), a Huskie Pledge Grant will meet the amount of any remaining first-year expenses for tuition and general fees.
If income, enrollment and university GPA criteria continue to be met, the same Huskie Pledge Grant amount received during the initial year of NIU enrollment will be renewable for up to four additional years, regardless of increases or decreases in other aid during subsequent years.
The program is open to freshmen starting at NIU in the fall of 2020. Funding is limited, and students should apply for admission to NIU and file a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) or Illinois RISE Act application by the priority deadline of Feb. 1.
Key qualifying criteria for the award include the following:
- Illinois residency.
- A cumulative 3.0 grade point average at an Illinois high school.
- Graduation from high school during the 2019-20 school year.
- A family income of $75,000 or less.
- Family assets of $75,000 or less (as defined by the FAFSA).
- Fall 2020 enrollment at NIU as a full-time student.
Sol Jensen, vice president for the Division of Enrollment Management, Marketing and Communication, said the Huskie Pledge is designed to support the university’s mission as an institution providing access to and serving talented incoming students who reflect Illinois’ broad socioeconomic diversity.
“We think this is one of the more generous financial aid programs in the state, one that makes our university even more accessible to students of all backgrounds,” Jensen said. “If you’re a high school student currently carrying close to a 3.0 GPA, you should be checking out NIU to see if you qualify. We’re eager to see you become a Huskie.”
The Huskie Pledge Program is supported by funding from the State of Illinois.
In addition to need-based financial aid, thousands of NIU students each year receive grants and earn merit scholarships that have no family-income requirements. When students apply for admission to NIU, they are automatically considered for the merit aid.
Learn more about the Huskie Pledge. For general information on financial aid and merit scholarships at NIU, visit the Financial Aid and Scholarship Office website.
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Northern Illinois University is a student-centered, nationally recognized public research university, with expertise that benefits its region and spans the globe in a wide variety of fields, including the sciences, humanities, arts, business, engineering, education, health and law. Through its main campus in DeKalb, Illinois, and education centers for students and working professionals in Chicago, Hoffman Estates, Naperville, Oregon and Rockford, NIU offers more than 100 areas of study while serving a diverse and international student body.
This past weekend ComEd hosted fifty Chicagoland freshman students at the Art Institute of Chicago to further develop their STEM skills and enhance their understanding of the fundamentals of energy, smart-city technologies and sustainability. This session is a part of the ComEd HFS Chicago Scholars STEM Program that launched in December, offered exclusively to students in the HFS Scholars program, which helps socioeconomically-disadvantaged, and flourishing students attend top Chicago private high schools.
The STEM program includes five immersive workshops per academic year for four years where students gain project-based experience with the mentoring of professional engineers. The working session held on Saturday, March 2nd, was the third of the five workshops with the creative backdrop of the Art Institute of Chicago. Impressively, the students continue to show a consistent commitment to STEM education as well as a high level of engagement. ComEd mentor and Engineer for ComEd, Oke Chika also added to the students’ enthusiasm by leading interactive discussions regarding their future career opportunities and STEM applications in the real world.
Win a $1,000 scholarship to St. Sylvester School!
Enter the raffle at St. Sylvester Fest on October 7, 2017. The Winner will be announced the following week and will receive a $1,000 scholarship. To enter you must attend St. Sylvester Fest and MUST BE A NEW FAMILY. Tours to the school will also be offered during the fest. Share our post/page with family and friends so they can #DiscoverTheDifference. Stop by or call St. Sylvester School to set up a tour and get all enrollment questions answered.
The 2nd Annual St. Sylvester Fest is an annual festival held to gather everyone from the neighborhood/community for a day of fun, food and enjoyment for family and friends.
This year our festival will be held on Saturday, October 7, 2017 from 2:00 p.m. until 9:00 p.m. There will be a mass at 2:00 p.m.
The festival will have a DJ, live music, a beer garden and activities for children and their families.
The goal of this event is to raise much needed funds for the St. Sylvester Parish and School.
Tours of the school and church will be offered during the festival. There will also be a $1,000 scholarship raffle.