OPALGA+ SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAM

Young LGBTQIA+ people face unique challenges in high school and college. Students with LGBTQIA+ parents have distinct experiences shaped by their families. The OPALGA+ Student Scholarship Fund provides financial support for the post-high school education of local students who have demonstrated service and advocacy to the LGBTQIA+ community and/or the larger community. Scholarships are awarded in varying amounts up to $5,000 and are currently open for applications through February 2023.

Local high school seniors are invited to apply for scholarships and are selected based on their demonstrated service, activism and understanding of the LGBTQIA+ community. Since 2014, we have awarded over $135,000 in scholarships. In 2022, seven area students received $26,000 in scholarships to attend University of Chicago, Knox College, Loyola University, Creighton University, Illinois Institute of Technology, and Concordia University. Congratulations to our 2022 scholarships recipients. 

The 2023 Scholarship Gala will be Saturday, October 21st at 6PM at the 19th Century Club in Oak Park. Tickets are $100 per person if purchased before September 30. The scholarship program depends on the year-round generosity of OPALGA+ members and community support. Please support our scholarship program.