CHAMPAIGN – State Senator Scott Bennett (D-Champaign) recently honored 133 Champaign-area high school students who were named 2021-22 Illinois State Scholars by the Illinois Student Assistance Commission.

Illinois State Scholar winners rank in approximately the top 10% of the state’s high school seniors from 676 high schools in all 102 counties. Selection is based on a combination of standardized test scores and class rank or unweighted GPA at the end of the student’s junior year. ISAC works in conjunction with the students’ high school guidance counselors to determine the winners.

“I am incredibly proud of these students from our community who earned this prestigious award,” Bennett said. “It reflects not only on the hard work of these students, but also shows their dedication to continued achievement despite the difficulties of the COVID-19 pandemic. It is a tribute to the effort of these students, their families, and their high school teachers and administrators.”

The Scholars from the Champaign area include students from six area high schools, including Champaign Centennial, Champaign Central, Judah Christian, Rantoul Township, Saint Thomas More, and Urbana high schools.

Recipients of the award will receive a congratulatory letter from ISAC, and a Certificate of Achievement will be sent to their high school. State Scholars will also receive a digital badge issued by ISAC that can be displayed on online profiles, exhibited on social media, and shared with prospective colleges and employers.

“The college admission process and qualifying for financial assistance is always competitive, and this Illinois State Scholar recognition rewards students for their hard work by giving them an advantage in attending and affording the college of their choice,” Bennett said.

More information about the State Scholar program can be found at ISAC’s website.