Lloyd K. Johnson Foundation Grant to support Long Distance Students and Student Services

Cook County Higher Education (CCHE) has received an $60,000 grant from the Lloyd K. Johnson Foundation for the 22-23 school year. The grant is comprised of two components: a $30,000 grant for tuition scholarships for Cook County residents enrolled in long distance post-secondary degree or certificate programs and a $30,000 grant to support CCHE’s student support services.

CCHE is working with over 50 students currently enrolled in long distance education while continuing to work and live in Cook County. The tuition scholarships are administered by CCHE’s Scholarship committee which is comprised of CCHE board members and interested community members.

This summer, CCHE received 10 scholarship applications and was able to provide tuition help for each applicant. Scholarships were offered for students enrolled in nine different institutions to study social work, nursing, law, septic design and psychology. All of this education can be put to good use in Cook County.

The second half of the scholarships will be distributed in December for the spring term. Residents interested in going back to school via long distance education should consider applying. Students do not need to have a prior relationship with CCHE to access the funds.

The second component of the Lloyd K. Johnson Foundation’s generous grant funds CCHE’s student support programming. At the CCHE building, long distance students have 24-hour access to computers, internet, study space and ITV equipment.

CCHE’s Student Support Coordinator, Lenna Stever-Sobanja, provides on-site advocacy for any student needing support. Lenna assists Cook County students with program research, completing applications, course scheduling, filing for financial aid (FAFSA), on-line course orientation and proctoring exams. She connects students with free tutoring services and advocates for them when they encounter difficulties. All of these services are free to the student and supported by the Lloyd K. Johnson Foundation’s grant. For more information about CCHE student services or scholarships, please contact Karen Blackburn, Executive Director at (218) 387-3411.