APPLICATION DEADLINE IS APRIL 15, 2026

The Joanne Kluessendorf Memorial Scholarship supports undergraduate students who are pursuing careers that advance public understanding of Earth science, geology, and the dynamic systems that shape our world.  Area of study must include the Earth Sciences, (including but not limited to: Earth Science, Geology, Environmental Science, or Natural History Museum Programs.)
 
Eligible applicants should be preparing for any profession dedicated to educating others about Earth processes, natural resources or geologic history such as (but not limited to):
 

• college or university faculty,
• K–12 science teachers,
• museum educators or curators,
• park interpreters, or
• outreach specialists

​Eligibility Requirements (printable)

• Applicant must be entering their Junior or Senior year of college and be pursuing undergraduate work only, on a full-time basis. Students completing their final requirements including a final semester of student teaching are also eligible to apply.
• Applicant must have an Illinois connection through personal background, college location, or future career plans.
• Applicant must be majoring, or intends to major, in a curriculum which will be compatible with a career in education.  Area of study must include the Earth Sciences, (including but not limited to, Earth Science, Geology, Environmental Science, or Natural History Museum Programs.)
• Applicant should have a grade point average of at least a 3 on a 4 scale (or 4 on a 5 scale).  An application from a student with a lesser grade point average may be considered in exceptional circumstances.
• Selection criteria are based in part on the applicant’s financial need, character, attitude, community involvement, and achievements.

​An applicant must submit the following information:

1. Completed Application Form.
2. One or two letters of recommendation.
3. College transcript. (A photocopy is acceptable)
4. Original essay between 300 and 500 words in length.   (Students should not submit the same essay from a previous year)

• In your essay, outline your interest in and/or connection to Earth Science or Geology education;
• how you will apply your education and training to raising awareness of earth science and/or geology in Illinois
• your goals;
• why you chose to apply for this scholarship; and
• explain your financial need for the scholarship.
• (optional) your FAFSA Student Aid Report or other proof of financial need.

 Submit completed application on or before April 15, 2026, using one of the methods below. Incomplete applications and applications submitted after the due date are subject to rejection.

Apply Online

Printable Application Form