NEHS proudly collaborates with Northern Illinois University (NIU) to offer graduating NEHS student members an extraordinary opportunity to study at NIU’s DeKalb, IL, campus. The NIU-NEHS William C. Johnson Scholarship not only celebrates academic excellence but also provides financial support to students who have demonstrated exceptional achievements and active engagement in NEHS chapter activities.
Applicants for this scholarship are encouraged to showcase their passion for English and related subjects such as literature, language, film, creative writing, and education. While declaring a major is not required at the time of application, a demonstrated and documented commitment to these fields strengthens each application.
Founded in 1895, NIU has evolved into a renowned, research-focused public institution attracting students globally. With over 100 diverse undergraduate programs spanning six colleges, NIU is committed to fostering educational excellence and experiential learning. Students, whether from Illinois or beyond, benefit from the same tuition rates, ensuring access to NIU’s enriching academic environment.
Awards
The scholarship award varies but is not less than $1,000.
Eligibility
- Applications can be made by a current or former (in the case of two-year college transfer students) NEHS student members of an NEHS active chapter.
- Applicants must have completed an admission application to NIU before beginning the scholarship application.
- Applications must be completed by January 31 for admission in the fall of the same year.
Application process
- All submissions must be made via the NIU My Scholarships platform.
- Applicants must complete demographic data questions prior to submitting their general scholarship application.
- The general scholarship application will require applicants to submit the following information:
- A personal statement—this should detail the applicant’s interest in the study of English
- A brief statement regarding financial need
- List of activities/service/employment—this should include detailed reference to NEHS membership
- List of honors and awards
- Two yes/no questions
- Applicants will then be directed to the Recommended Opportunities page on the My Scholarships platform. Applicants should search for The William C. Johnson Scholarship and continue the application process.
Evaluation process
- All applications will be evaluated by the Northern Illinois University English faculty.
- Applications will be evaluated on the basis of 1) academic merit, 2) extracurricular activities and awards, and 3) quality of the personal statement.
- The scholarship will be given purely based on merit, not on the imperative that all funds should be spent annually.
