Hard Rock Casino of Northern Indiana in Gary is providing $250,000 in scholarships to 30 Gary high school graduates for full tuition at Indiana University Northwest. The Urban League of Northwest Indiana will screen applicants and determine the winners.
Applications for the “Do Well by Doing Good” scholarship program are being accepted up to Sept. 6.
The Urban League, IUN, and Hard Rock officials kicked off the program with a trademark Hard Rock guitar-shaped check presentation Wednesday at the casino.
Matt Schuffert, president of Hard Rock Casino Northern Indiana, said scholarship winners can begin their studies this fall.
“We believe it will assist Gary students achieve their education goals and we will work with the Urban League to really power the next generation of leaders,” he said.
“Today, we’re showing your dreams can come true in your hometown,” said Ellis Dumas, chief of staff for Gary Mayor Eddie Melton.
“Research shows that a lack of finances can be a barrier to education for a large portion of first-generation and low-income college students. This generous donation from Hard Rock serves as a commitment to eliminating financial barriers for Gary students seeking to pursue their career goals,” said Vaness Allen McCloud, president and CEO of the Urban League and also a Gary School Board member.
New Gary Superintendent Yvonne Stokes said it’s an exciting initiative for students.
“Gary Ready is future-ready,” she said of her new mantra. “We’re thrilled Hard Rock is giving this opportunity to our students.”
Interim IUN Chancellor Vicki Roman-Lagunas said the scholarships will create many student success stories.
“We could not be more grateful for Hard Rock’s and Urban League’s belief in the youth of Gary. These students are, without a doubt, our region’s future. This partnership is a premier example of the good that occurs when community partners’ visions align.”
To apply, see: https://ulofnwi.communityforce.com/ for more information about the scholarship program.
Here are the eligibility requirements for applicants:
— Must be accepted as an incoming freshman pursuing a two or four-year degree at Indiana University Northwest
— Students who graduated in 2024 from any Gary high school (public, charter, private, faith-based, or home-school)
— Must have a 2.5 GPA or higher and be a Core 40 graduate
— Must have completed 30-40 hours of community service/volunteerism
— Must complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) annually
— Must maintain a 2.5 GPA annually at IU Northwest
Carole Carlson is a freelance reporter for the Post-Tribune.
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