Rockford Sun

Rockford Promise has announced an expansion of its scholarship program in partnership with Rockford University and the City of Rockford. This collaboration aims to provide eligible students with fully-funded tuition to attend Rockford University, enhancing access to higher education for local high school graduates. The initiative is designed to support students living in the City of Rockford, offering them a pathway to a debt-free college education.

The new scholarship program will commence in the 2025 academic year. It allows graduates from public or private partner schools within Rockford city limits, who meet specific academic and financial qualifications, to attend Rockford University without paying tuition. The City of Rockford will contribute $500,000 annually towards the tuition of eligible students, funded through the casino tax from the Rockford Hard Rock Casino as part of the Casino Tax Revenue Investment Plan.

“This collaboration is a profound investment in Rockford’s future,” said Mayor Thomas McNamara. “By enabling our students to achieve their educational goals without the burden of tuition, we are not only supporting individual success but also strengthening our community's workforce and economic growth.” Additionally, Rockford University has pledged to cover any additional tuition costs that exceed this contribution.

Kaylene Groh, Executive Director of Rockford Promise, stated: "This partnership with Rockford University and the City of Rockford marks a transformative milestone in Rockford Promise's journey to making higher education accessible to all students within our community."

The scholarship aligns with Rockford Promise’s mission of supporting local students through scholarships, mentorships, and community engagement. Dr. Patricia Lynott, President of Rockford University, remarked: "This partnership with Rockford Promise and the City of Rockford marks a historic moment for our institution."

Eligible students must complete their FAFSA and admission applications by February 1 of their graduating year through the Rockford Promise website application. They must be residents of the City of Rockford, graduate from a high school within city limits, have a GPA of 3.0 or higher on a 4.0 scale, and qualify for Federal Pell Grants and Illinois MAP Grants.