The importance of the NGS Scholarship was mentioned in the Chicago Sun-Times on July 18, 2025, by journalist Lashaunta Moore in a “Next Voices” article. She indicated the NGS Scholarship plaque and monetary award motivated and assisted her in obtaining her degree at St. Xavier University. Our program was delighted to have her reaffirm the success of the scholarship award on students and their goals.

Remember our students, the Norman G. Swenson (NGS) Scholarship Program continues our efforts to help new community college students with their hopes and struggles, many of which still sound familiar:

“I am the first in my family to graduate from college and this award would be an amazing first step.”

“We are all unique in our own way, but when people choose to help each other out, it shows how beautiful our society can be.”

“I believe that people can rise above life’s hardships by seeking a better quality of life through their community college.”

“[This scholarship] would be a huge motivator to continue to work hard in school, work, and all areas of my life.”

“It is my dream to care for patients and their families in a Chicago-area hospital.”

“Due to family commitments, paying for school is always difficult.”

“At age 54, I was working a hum-drum job. Through college, I learned new knowledge and skills which changed my thinking and actions, resulting in new life-fulfilling opportunities.”

“[I] look forward to the day when I can be the person who can inspire students to learn and grow.”

Continue your commitment to students from the community colleges by donating to the NGS Scholarship Fund in 2026. Every year, Local 1600 selects and awards scholarships to one from each college represented by CCCTU. The award amount is based on the donations from our members.