Dorothy Silverstein Scholarship
YWCA Elgin will present a $2,000 scholarship to an adult female 21 years of age or older residing in Elgin, IL, who will be pursuing a higher education. Higher education can include a college degree, certificate program, or trade school. Applicants will be required to show proof of enrollment.
The YWCA Elgin is not accepting applications at this time. Please check back in January of 2026.
*When stating female, the YWCA Elgin refers to anyone who identifies as female.
About Dorothy Silverstein
Dorothy was born November 23, 1917, in Peabody, Massachusetts, to Polish/Russian immigrants. Dorothy was a sickly child who had tuberculosis, among other serious ailments. Dorothy missed a great deal of school but nevertheless graduated as Class Valedictorian from Peabody High School in 1936. Dorothy was able to attend Radcliffe College (now Harvard University) due to the generosity of a scholarship from the Peabody Women’s Club. She went on to have a successful career in banking at the Irving Trust Company (now Bank of New York), overcoming sexism, anti-Semitism, and resentment by some of her academic credentials. At the Irving, Dorothy became a mentor to many and a legend to all. Education and professional fulfillment were of utmost importance to her, and she encouraged all who came into her life to keep reaching for the next step.
Dorothy Blanche Silverstein passed away peacefully at home on March 25, 2022, at 104.
CONGRATULATIONS
CONGRATULATIONS
Introducing the 2025 Dorothy Silverstein Scholarship Recipient: Marielena Nunez
We are thrilled to recognize Marielena Nunez as this year’s Dorothy Silverstein Scholarship Award recipient! Marielena is a dedicated student at Elgin Community College, working toward her Bachelor’s degree in Psychology with a powerful vision: to become a psychologist and art therapist for children from immigrant backgrounds.
As President of We Rise ECC, Marielena leads initiatives like immigration legal clinics and scholarship workshops, making real change on campus and in the community. Her unwavering commitment to advocacy, mental health, and education truly embodies the spirit of this award.