The Rotary Club of Naperville is now accepting applications for its highly anticipated 2026 scholarship program, designed to support local high school seniors who demonstrate outstanding academic achievement, leadership potential, and a strong commitment to serving their communities. This initiative continues the Rotary Club’s long-standing tradition of fostering the next generation of leaders by providing financial assistance to deserving students pursuing higher education.
The scholarships are open to high school seniors residing in Naperville’s School Districts 203 and 204, including students attending both public and private schools within the district boundaries. This expanded eligibility ensures that a wide range of students from various educational backgrounds have the opportunity to apply and benefit from this program.
Maria Caselli, the Chair of the Rotary Club of Naperville Scholarship Committee, shared her enthusiasm for the program. She highlighted the club’s dedication to “investing in the future of our community” by empowering students to take the next steps in their academic journeys. Caselli also noted that the scholarships reflect the Rotary’s core values of service above self and its ongoing efforts to develop future leaders who will actively contribute to both their local communities and the global society.
The application deadline for the 2026 scholarships is March 8. Students interested in applying are encouraged to complete their applications before the cutoff to ensure their consideration. The Rotary Club plans to announce the scholarship recipients by April 17. A celebration event will be held on May 7 at Meson Sabika, a historic Naperville venue, where the awardees will be publicly recognized for their achievements.
The scholarship program offers more than just financial support—it serves as an opportunity for students to become part of a larger network of community-minded individuals. Previous recipients have gone on to make significant contributions in various fields, embodying the Rotary’s ethos of community service and leadership.
To apply, students can visit the Rotary Club of Naperville’s website or contact Maria Caselli at mcaselli@napervillerotary.com for further details. The Rotary Club encourages all eligible students to take advantage of this opportunity to advance their education and future career prospects.
This initiative is just one example of the Rotary Club’s broader impact on the community, as it continues to support local initiatives, foster volunteerism, and contribute to the well-being of Naperville and beyond.
