2026 Sandra Koscielniak Graduate Scholarship
Offered by Association of Illinois Township Committees on Youth
About this scholarship
The 2026 Sandra Koscielniak Graduate Scholarship provides $1,000 to an Illinois resident preparing for a youth-focused human-services career. Applicants must be enrolled in or accepted to a master's program leading to an MSW or an MA/MS in social work, psychology, counseling, family therapy, recreation, or prevention with a youth emphasis. The Association of Illinois Township Committees on Youth also expects relevant experience in youth programs or social services, demonstrated leadership, and a clear plan to continue serving young people. The direct sponsor PDF asks for education, work experience, volunteer service, graduate program, degree, and career information. A complete packet includes a résumé, proof of graduate-school acceptance, two signed recommendation letters on letterhead from people who are not relatives or friends, and an essay describing educational goals. One recommendation must come from an organization where the applicant volunteered, and the essay must not exceed 300 words or the application is disqualified. Applicants may mail the assembled packet to the AITCOY trustee listed on the form. All materials must be received by 4:30 p.m. on September 11, 2026; the award is scheduled for October.
Eligibility
- Be an Illinois resident
- Be enrolled in or accepted to an approved master's degree program
- Pursue youth-focused social work, psychology, counseling, family therapy, recreation, or prevention
- Have experience in youth programs or social services and demonstrate leadership
- Submit a résumé and proof of graduate-school acceptance
- Provide two signed non-family recommendation letters, including one from a volunteer organization
- Write an educational-goals essay of no more than 300 words
- Ensure the complete packet is received by September 11, 2026 at 4:30 p.m.