The Illinois Sheriffs' Association announces that it will be awarding over $58,000 in college scholarships throughout the State of Illinois to students wishing to pursue higher education during the 2026-2027 academic year.  The scholarships are to be applied to tuition, books, and fees only.  The sudent must be enrolled full-time at a certified institution of higher learning.  Online learning is also acceptable.

Sheriff Mike Walker, DeWitt County, wiill be awarding 1 scholarship in the amount of $500.  

There will be no restriction on any applicant for reason of race, age, creed, color, sex or national origin.  The only limitations are as follows:

• Applicants must be permanent Illinois residents
• Students must be enrolled as a full-time student during the 2026-2027 school year (excluding summer session)

Applications are now available at the DeWitt County Sheriff's Office, the ISA Website https://www.ilsheriff.org/youth-2/, or by clicking here.  Students must complete the application, answer the essay question, and return all documentation to the DeWitt County Sheriff's Office, 101 W. Washington St., Clinton, Il 61727 by March 13, 2026 (must be postmarked by this date).  For more information, please contact the DeWitt County Sheirff's Office, Illinois Sheirffs' Association, high school advising center, or college financial aid office.