Illinois Conservation Foundation Offers 2026 Scholarships

Up to four $2,000 scholarships available for Illinois high school seniors committed to conservation

Jan. 27, 2026 at 1:15pm

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The Illinois Conservation Foundation is accepting applications for its 2026 Conservation Achievement Scholarships, which will award up to four one-time scholarships of $2,000 each to Illinois high school seniors dedicated to preserving, protecting, enhancing or promoting the state's natural resources. One scholarship is reserved annually for a dependent of an Illinois Department of Natural Resources employee.

Why it matters

The scholarships aim to invest in the next generation of conservation leaders in Illinois, supporting students who are already making meaningful contributions to their communities through environmental stewardship and public service.

The details

Applicants must be Illinois residents and seniors enrolled in an Illinois high school during the year the scholarship is awarded. Applications must be received by March 1. Since the program began in 2005, the foundation has awarded $194,000 to 95 Illinois students.

  • The application deadline is March 1, 2026.
  • The scholarships will be awarded in 2026.

The players

Illinois Conservation Foundation

A nonprofit organization committed to protecting Illinois' natural resources for future generations.

Natalie Finnie

Director of the Illinois Department of Natural Resources and chair of the Illinois Conservation Foundation Board of Directors.

Jenny Vaughn

Executive director of the Illinois Conservation Foundation.

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What they’re saying

“The Conservation Achievement Scholarship reflects our commitment to investing in the next generation of conservation leaders. These students are already making meaningful contributions to their communities, and this support helps them continue that work through education and service.”

— Jenny Vaughn, Executive Director, Illinois Conservation Foundation

“Supporting young people who care deeply about Illinois' lands, waters and wildlife strengthens the future of conservation statewide. This scholarship highlights the importance of stewardship and public service at an early stage.”

— Natalie Finnie, Director, Illinois Department of Natural Resources; Chair, Illinois Conservation Foundation Board of Directors

What’s next

The application deadline is March 1, 2026, and the scholarships will be awarded later that year.

The takeaway

The Illinois Conservation Foundation's scholarship program is investing in the next generation of environmental stewards, supporting high school seniors who have demonstrated a commitment to preserving and protecting the state's natural resources.