Chamber Community Scholarship
giving back.
The Effingham County Chamber believes in the power of education to strengthen our community. Through scholarships and continued support of local learners, we invest in the people shaping the future of Effingham County.
Invest in Effingham County’s Future.
donateEffingham County Chamber Community Scholarship
Our sole purpose is to support local students and adult learners by providing financial assistance for continuing education. The program promotes personal and professional development, encourages civic and community engagement, and helps strengthen the future workforce of Effingham County. It’s one way the Chamber invests in the long-term success of the region.
Scholarship Program
Each year, we award $1,000 scholarships to high school seniors and adult learners pursuing secondary education. The Jack Graham Scholarship, created in 2021, honors local visionary Jack Graham and supports students entering healthcare, childcare, or vocational trades
Since 1996, we’ve awarded over $264,000 to 226 recipients. Applicants must be Chamber members (or family/employees) or Effingham County residents—Illinois college attendance preferred.
Scholarship count depends on sponsor support. Call Membership Director Becky Brown at (217) 347-6283 to learn how you can invest in the future of Effingham County today!
Pictured Back row (left to right): Breanna Shull, Harsh Patel, Paul Huber and Morgan Hafler
Pictured Front row (left to right): Addie Cutright, Rachel Metcalf and Grace Schumacher
“The Chamber’s scholarship program is one of the most meaningful ways we invest in our community. By supporting local students and adult learners, we’re helping ensure Effingham County continues to grow with strong, skilled, and engaged individuals.”
Katie Koester
Effingham County Chamber President & CEO
“I am incredibly thankful for and truly honored to receive this scholarship! As I reflect on my journey, I am filled with gratitude for all the support that has helped me reach this point. The Chamber Scholarship has supported me both financially and professionally. The gift of this scholarship has lessened the financial burden of being a student throughout my undergraduate studies. Additionally, I had the opportunity to connect with community members throughout the application and interview process!
I am currently a senior at Southern Illinois University Edwardsville (SIUE), pursuing my degree in Biomedical Sciences. During the Summer of 2024, I dedicated much of my time to studying for the Dental Admissions Test (DAT). I took the test in August, and I am thrilled to share that I achieved a great score! I am now preparing to apply for dental school in the upcoming application cycle with hopes of matriculating in the Fall of 2026.
Upon completing dental school, my goal is to return to the Effingham area … I am eager to pay it forward one day. I aspire to be an active and informed dental provider and member of the community. I am so grateful for all the generosity that has gotten me to where I am today, and I am eager to pay it forward one day.
I am excited for what the future holds and for the opportunity to continue pursuing my passion for dentistry and helping others.”
Maria Poston
2022, 2025 Scholarship Recipient
Past Scholarship Recipients
- Morgan Hagler (Jack Graham Scholarship)
- Halle Meyer