The Wentcher Foundation Board of Directors and Staff officially welcomed the 26th Class of Wentcher Scholars on June 11, 2023 at its Annual Celebration held at the University Club of Chicago. The Foundation was honored to celebrate the remarkable achievements of these exceptional students with their families and friends as they embark on their next chapter in college. Incoming scholars were selected based on their academic excellence, financial need, and depth of character from an incredibly competitive, diverse pool of more than 600 applicants representing more than 75 high schools across the Chicago areas. 105 new scholarships were awarded this year, reflecting a 4-year commitment of $3.7 million in funding over the next four years and bringing the Foundation’s total scholarship funding to more than $23 million since inception. Approximately 90% of the incoming scholars identify as a student of color and more than 50% are the first person in their family to attend college. We cannot wait to see what all they will accomplish in college and the positive, long-term impact they will have on their communities in the years ahead.
