State Representative Adam Niemerg (R-Dieterich) is reminding Illinois high school graduating seniors that there are several scholarships available to Illinois citizens who will be attending an Illinois college or university. The Township Officials of Illinois (TOI) have $2,000 scholarships available, and interested students must write a 500-word essay on “the Role of Township Government in Today’s Society and in the Future.”
“This year we are celebrating America’s 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence and it is fitting to talk about the role of township government that was the first form of grassroots democratic government in America,” explained Rep. Niemerg, who received his college degree in history from Eastern Illinois University. “This is a wonderful opportunity for students to learn more about townships and demonstrate their knowledge.”
Niemerg points out that to be eligible, students must be a graduating senior from an Illinois high school, plan to attend an Illinois university/college as a full-time student, and have a history of extracurricular activities that demonstrate a willingness to accept leadership responsibilities (student government, club officer, etc.) or a commitment to civic responsibility and willingness to serve (community service projects, charitable institutions, etc.). The applicant must interview an elected township official who serves on a township board in Illinois and have the official’s signature, title, township/county attached with the essay.
You may learn more about this scholarship at www.toi.org and direct questions to 217-744-2212 or [email protected]. Completed applications must be mailed or emailed (PDF format only) to [email protected], postmarked no later than March 2, 2026 to:
Township Officials of Illinois
Attn: Scholarship Committee
3217 Northfield Drive
Springfield, IL 62702
Constituents may contact Rep. Niemerg’s district office at (217) 613-6036 or visit RepNiemerg.com with any questions.
