Illinois Judges Foundation Scholarship Opportunity

Scholarship Opportunity for Law Students

The Illinois Judges Foundation (IJF) is proud to support the next generation of legal leaders through its Harold Sullivan Scholarship Program—a collection of scholarships recognizing law students who demonstrate a commitment to service, integrity, and the pursuit of justice. New this year, the IJF introduces the Justice Mary Jane Theis Scholarship, one of several awards offered under the Harold Sullivan Scholarship umbrella, honoring Justice Theis’s legacy of leadership and dedication to the judiciary. Each year, the IJF awards multiple scholarships in varying amounts to students attending Illinois law schools. We are pleased to announce that the Foundation has increased its top scholarship award from $5,000 to $7,500, to be applied toward law school tuition and fees. Historically, the IJF has awarded multiple scholarships annually, with no set limit on the total number of awards that may be granted in any given year. Scholarship funds are paid directly to recipients’ law schools and applied toward tuition and other qualified educational expenses. In some cases, law schools may also provide matching funds, thereby increasing the total financial support available to each student.   

To be eligible for consideration, applicants must meet the following requirements: 

• Enrolled in an Illinois law school with at least one year remaining 
• Demonstrated financial need 
• Community service and/or pro bono experience 
• No close family member who is a judge

Apply at bit.ly/IJFscholarship no later than June 26, 2026 at 4:00 p.m. Central Time.

Applications and questions should be sent to Hon. Helaine Berger, (Ret.) and Hon. April G. Troemper, ijf@chicagobar.org