The Illinois Education Foundation (IEF) is a public/private partnership that broadens opportunities to low-income, high-potential community college students by providing a comprehensive scholarship program. IEF scholarships combine “last dollar” financial assistance along with a full set of academic supports services-including mentoring, tutoring and academic advising-to empower more Illinois college students to achieve their degrees and reach their full potential.

Download a PDF file of our 2009 Annual Report

The music industry is a tough business, but Teddy Marrufo is determined to make the cut.  Teddy’s strong will and resourcefulness have helped him tackle the many challenges he’s faced.  Even without the support of his father, and without any financial aid, Teddy remained intent on attaining a college degree.  With hard work and the help of the Illinois Education Foundation, Teddy graduated this past spring from Wilbur Wright College, and will begin his studies at Columbia College Chicago this fall, pursuing a Bachelor’s of Arts in Music Business Management.  “I feel that the IEF has brought me closer to my five year goal.  With the skills I’ve built through the IEF mentoring program, I’m confident that in five years I will have my bachelor’s degree, and will be living in New York City while working for a major record label.”

Having Won Freedom, He Wants To Help Others

BY STEFANO ESPOSITO Staff Reporter
Chicago Sun-Times
May14, 2010

Program gives some City Colleges students a leg up

Chi Town Daily News
By Peter Sachs
May 2009

Program invests in student success

October 22, 2007 Chicago Sun-Times
By Dave Newbart

Cheryl Hyman Appointed as City Colleges of Chicago Chancellor

Press Release, City Colleges of Chicago
Chicago, IL – March 4, 2010

Can Community Colleges Save the U.S. Economy?

July 20, 2009 Time Magazine
by Laura Fitzpatrick/ Austin

No Size Fits All

June 2009 The New York Times
by Davis Brooks