The Scott D. Clarke Excellence in Student Leadership Scholarship

Scott D. Clarke is a 1981 Western Illinois University political science graduate who served in numerous campus leadership roles including a student member of the Board of Governors of State Colleges and Universities, Inter-Hall Council President and served as a member of numerous university boards and committees including those related to budget, curriculum, student affairs and accreditation. Following his graduation, he was selected by the Illinois Governor as a Governor’s Yearlong Fellow which began his 35-year career in public service. While in state government he held numerous positions including serving as the Commissioner of Banks and Trust Companies for the State of Illinois. Following his retirement from state government, Scott has continued his public service by serving with the American Red Cross in leadership roles in various disaster responses throughout the country, including Chairman of the Red Cross in Illinois and his service on the Illinois Terrorism Task Force. Scott has also been appointed by the Governor as a Commissioner of Volunteerism and Community Service.

CRITERIA:
This scholarship is established to recognize a student who:
• Has demonstrated significant involvement in campus life by participating in and demonstrating achievement in a student organization or organizations in leadership roles. This participation can be through student affairs/activities or academic related organizations; this involvement and participation has helped to instill pride for Western Illinois University among others.
• Has worked to make Western Illinois University a better place for students; enhancing the student experience;
• Has been involved in contributing to the community through outreach;
• Has shown a commitment to academic success and has a G.P.A. of 3.0 or higher;
• Has made a significant impact on campus life for their peers and colleagues;
• Is a sophomore, junior, senior, or graduate student with the stated intention of returning to the University for the fall semester following the date of his/her selection.