Jennifer Samson Memorial Scholarship Fund Grant

The Jennifer Samson Memorial Scholarship Fund, established by The Community Foundation for McHenry County, honors the memory of a talented artist and advocate. It provides annual awards to graduating high school students in McHenry County who have actively participated in musical theater. This scholarship not only supports educational pursuits but also continues Jenn's legacy of love for the arts and her commitment to equal rights and community service. Applicants must demonstrate involvement in musical theater during their high school years.

The Community Foundation for McHenry County
The Community Foundation for McHenry County (CFMC) is a 501(c)(3) tax-exempt public charity created by and for the residents of McHenry County. Originally known as the McHenry County Community Foundation, we were established to provide a sustainable source of charitable giving for local nonprofit organizations and students.
Today, CFMC is the county’s leading philanthropic organization. We manage more than 100 charitable funds and work with individuals, families, businesses, and nonprofits to support meaningful causes throughout the county. Each year, we grant approximately $1.5 million to nonprofit agencies serving local residents and $50,000 in scholarships to students annually by supporting their pursuit of a secondary education.
Jennifer graduated from Huntley High School in 2010 and earned a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Theater Performance with a minor in Music from the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater in 2014. A talented and creative individual, Jenn lived for music, theater, dance, and the visual arts. She played the French Horn and Mellophone with her school bands and orchestra, participated in Horn Fest at Whitewater, and performed with UAC Theater and Vero Voce Theater Company. She also sang with the Madison Chamber Choir and performed at the Bristol Renaissance Faire. Jenn’s artistic touch can still be seen in the murals she painted in schools in Huntley and Elgin. Known for her giving heart and kind spirit, she made a lasting impact on family, friends, fellow performers, and even strangers through her presence, humor, and love.Jenn was also a passionate advocate for equal rights, animal welfare, and the preservation of the planet. Her creative brilliance, bright smile, and genuine love will forever be remembered by those who knew her. In her memory, the Jennifer Samson Memorial Scholarship Fund was established to provide annual awards to graduating McHenry County high school students who actively participated in musical theater during their high school years. This scholarship assists students in pursuing a two-year or four-year college degree, continuing the legacy of Jenn’s love for the arts.

Eligibility

Applicants must be a McHenry County high school graduating student.Applicants must exhibit musical theater involvement throughout high school.Preference will be given to an applicant who has performed as an actor/performer in musical theater in high school.