Foundation Grants Support IMSA's Work
For Immediate Release, November 2002
For comment, contact Brenda Buschbacher at
(630) 907-5033
Foundations demonstrate robust commitment to excellence in mathematics and science education Grants support programs for Illinois teachers and students.
By Catherine C. Veal
To enhance programs and services for IMSA students, Illinois teachers and other Illinois students and leverage state appropriations, the IMSA Fund for Advancement of Education seeks contributions from the private sector – and the private sector delivers, supporting various opportunities that otherwise would not be possible.
Recent foundation commitments of $25,000+ include:
- On behalf of Andrew Corporation and its employees, the Aileen S. Andrew
Foundation approved a grant of $500,000 to support IMSA’s programs
and services for Illinois teachers in the Chicagoland area (where Andrew
Corporation is based).
- The Chicago Community Trust, metropolitan Chicago’s community
foundation, approved a grant of $206,250 and the Pritzker Foundation approved
a grant of $150,000 to support the IMSA Excellence 2000+ after-school enrichment
program for Illinois middle school students and their teachers. These grants
will support additional program sites in Chicago and Cook County.
- Ball Foundation approved a grant of $100,000 to support IMSA’s
programs and services for Illinois teachers.
- SBC Foundation approved a grant of $25,000 to support IMSA’s Student Leadership Development program for its residential students.
IMSA President Dr. Stephanie Pace Marshall said these investments will strengthen IMSA’s capacity to achieve its legislative charge and mission. “These grants will help increase student interest and achievement in mathematics, science and technology, extend IMSA’s statewide reach and impact, and ultimately secure a stronger tomorrow for our state, nation and world,” she said.
Dr. Philip H. Francis, president of the IMSA Fund for Advancement of Education, added, “Excellence in mathematics and science education is key to our future economic development and quality of life. IMSA is an educational beacon and a winner that works, and investing in IMSA programs is a productive way for the private sector and community organizations to help improve mathematics and science education. These foundations recognize that, and we salute and appreciate their leadership.
“In addition, the IMSA Fund Board of Directors appreciates the State’s strong commitment to IMSA and to excellence in mathematics and science education. This signals to the private sector that Illinois is serious about developing talent in mathematics and science,” Francis said, “which in turn bolsters the case for corporate, foundation and individual contributions.”