Online Application

WARREN “BILLY” CHERRY SCHOLARSHIP APPLICATION — 2026

This application must be received by Friday, March 6, 2026. Applications received after this date will not to be considered. All materials are confidential and will be used exclusively for the selection of Cherry Scholars. If you have questions or need help filling out the application, please email Bill Speth (bill.cherryscholarship@gmail.com) or call Robert Reece, President (847-612-7767).

E-Mail Applications, Transcripts and Recommendation Forms to:

Bill Speth – bill.cherryscholarship@gmail.com

Instructions

• You can submit your Application online using the online form on this page but you must be registered to do so. When you visit this page after log in, you will see the six-part online application when you scroll down. The form will allow you to complete, save and submit your application. Note: If you are not logged in, you will not be able to view the online application. Registering is easy. Just click on REGISTER at the top of the page to create your user name and password.
• Complete this application online at www.cherryscholarship.org/application-form/. The application deadline is Friday, March 6, 2026. Applications received after March 6 will not be considered. March 6, 2026.

Transcripts:

• Arrange to have an official transcript sent from ETHS
• Arrange to have transcripts from all other high schools, colleges, or universities you have attended.
• You must send a complete set of transcripts, even if you have applied before.
• Request transcripts from ETHS and from appropriate offices at other institutions at least ONE MONTH before the application deadline to give the school(s) time to process your request.

Recommendations:

• Arrange for recommendation letters from two adults with whom you have had a professional relationship within the past five years (teacher, counselor, coach, sponsor of an extra-curricular activity, job supervisor, clergy).
• Those who write these recommendations should NOT be related to you. Please ask them to e-mail their recommendation to Bill Speth (bill.cherryscholarship@gmail.com).
• Your application will be ‘complete’ when all transcripts and letters of recommendation are received. Transcripts and letters of recommendation must be received by March 14, 2025. Late or incomplete applications will not be considered.

Qualifications

• Graduating senior or graduate of Evanston Township High School; ETHS student with G.E.D.
• Pursuing associates, undergraduate or graduate degree in education, social work or in a field that emphasizes guidance of youth.
• Enrolled as a full-time (at least 12 credit hrs. per semester or annual equivalent) or part-time (at least 6 credit hrs. per semester or annual equivalent) student

Selection Criteria

• Success in overcoming poor academic achievement, lack of focus, or other personal challenges
• Intention to pursue a career that requires guiding young people
• Leadership and community involvement
• Evidence of compassion, commitment and love of children
• Demonstrated need for financial assistance

Important: If you are selected as a finalist, you must attend an IN-PERSON interview on April 12, 2026. Finalists who are not physically present for their interview on April 12 will not be eligible to receive a Cherry award. Please plan your schedules accordingly.