Dorothy Silverstein Scholarship

YWCA Elgin will present two (2) $2,000 scholarships to adult females 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.

Scholarship applications are due by 11:59 p.m. on March 6, 2025!

*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.

To be eligible for this award, the applicant must:

  1. Be an adult female* 21 years of age or older

  2. Must reside in Elgin, IL

  3. Currently accepted or enrolled at a college, trade school, or certificate program.

  4. Beliefs/views must align with the YWCA Elgin’s Mission.

    *When stating female, the YWCA Elgin refers to anyone who identifies as female.

Award & Scholarship Criteria

Application Instructions

  1. The application must be typed.

  2. Incomplete applications will not be considered.

  3. Attach two letters of recommendation from individuals who can speak to your work ethic, dedication, and ability to succeed academically. These individuals can include colleagues, employers, and/or mentors.

  4. Attach a copy of your acceptance letter or proof of enrollment.

  5. Do not bind or staple application materials.

  6. Application and supporting material must be submitted by 11:59 p.m. on March 6, 2025. Applications can be submitted by email to info@ywcaelgin.org, online, or by mail/in person to YWCA Elgin, ATTN: Dorothy Silverstein Scholarship, 220 East Chicago Street, Elgin, IL 60120. If mailed, the YWCA Elgin must receive your application by the due date.

  7. Applications will be reviewed competitively, and each scholarship application will be scored on a 100-point scale. The point values for questions can be found on the application.

Selection Process

A panel of five judges will select the scholarship recipients. The panel of judges will be comprised of YWCA Elgin Board Members and Elgin Community Members.

YLAS Scholarship Image

If you do not receive a confirmation email after submission, please get in touch with the YWCA Elgin at info@ywcaelgin.org.