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Spirit of Lincoln Endowment Fund
Investment in this fund allows us to expand our efforts to highlight the accomplishments of distinguished Illinoisans and to ‘pay it forward’ by encouraging excellence and principled civic engagement in young leaders. Our goals include: 1) connecting Student Laureates with senior members of The Lincoln Academy of Illinois who can act as mentors and encouragers; and 2) instilling in the next generation a commitment to lead “in the spirit of Abraham Lincoln” to the betterment of humanity.
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Convocation
Convocation
Support & Tickets
Join us in honoring the 2020 Laureates. If you cannot attend, you can still contribute to the celebration. Click to see the options for giving, recognition, and tickets.
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Membership
Membership
Join us and become involved in our growing organization that celebrates contributions of citizens and helps build new leaders.
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Student Laureate
Student Laureate
Sponsorships
Our next Student Laureate awards ceremony will be November 7, 2020. Ceremony and ticket information will be posted here soon.
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"From being homeless to witnessing my mother lose everything in a fire, I often found myself overwhelmed by chaos and uncertainty. It was during these unfortunate times that I would turn to East-West University as my sanctuary."
Our The Lincoln Academy of Illinois Student Laureates continue to inspire us to live life without taking it for granted. Take a look at these words from East-West University - Chicago's Stephany C. Starks.
"Making the choice to attend East-West University was, by far, the best decision I’ve made. This utopia serves as a safe haven, which allows me to discover and develop my skills and abilities while simultaneously encouraging me to pursue excellence in every aspect of my life.
From being homeless to witnessing my mother lose everything in a fire, I often found myself overwhelmed by chaos and uncertainty. It was during these unfortunate times that I would turn to East-West University as my sanctuary. From professors to counselors, I could always seek wise advice and guidance from anyone at the university.
As I reflect on my college experience, I become overwhelmed with a variety of emotions. Although I am slightly embarrassed that it took me five years to get to where I am today, this daunting feeling is immediately overshadowed by the excitement and glee that I incur, while pondering upon the endless opportunities available to me by obtaining a degree.
I’ve decided to dedicate my life to teaching. I want to teach, motivate and inspire others, the same way I was taught, inspired and motivated to change my life, by the staff at East-West University.
Receiving this award from the Lincoln Leadership Academy is an honor and I am extremely grateful for this opportunity. Not only has this moment has encouraged me even more, to pursue a career as a teacher, it will also serve as a constant reminder that through hard work and dedication, anything is possible. I can finally say that I am optimistic about embarking on the journey that lies ahead of me."
Way to go and way to lead, Stephany! I wish you continued success.
