We are proud to offer three scholarship opportunities to high school students in 11th or 12 grades throughout McLean County. 

The McLean County Republicans have announced a student essay scholarship program to commemorate the nation’s upcoming 250th anniversary. The awards will be presented Saturday, May 30, during a Freedom Fest kickoff celebration at the American Hungarian Club, 1520 Calhoun, Bloomington

High school students in grades 11-12 who reside in McLean County are invited to submit a 400-500-word essay on the topic: “Two-hundred and fifty years of American Freedom—What does that mean to me?” The competition offers three prizes: $1,776 for first place, $1,000 for second, and $500 for third.

Entries must include the student’s name, parent’s name, address, contact information, and registered school. Submissions may be emailed to [email protected]  or mailed to McLean County Republicans, 202 S. Eldorado, Suite C1, Bloomington.

The deadline to enter is May 15, 2026, with winners to be notified by May 20.