The Taha Family Scholarship Fund

The Taha Family Scholarship Fund supports undergraduate and graduate students who aspire to build careers that create positive change in their communities, with a focus on supporting students in Illinois.

The scholarship is intended for students pursuing fields related to nonprofit leadership, nonprofit management, behavioral sciences or related fields. By investing in future nonprofit professionals, the fund seeks to cultivate the next generation of leaders dedicated to serving others. 

It is anticipated that scholarship awards will range from $2,500 – $5,000 per student.

About This Fund

Nareman Taha

The Taha Family Scholarship Fund was established by Nareman Taha, a community leader whose advocacy and service have strengthened Chicagoland communities for decades.

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Raised in Chicago and New York City in a Palestinian household that instilled in her the values of education and community, Nareman Taha dedicated her career to organizing, advocacy, and community service. In 2001, she co-founded Arab American Family Services (AAFS) alongside Itedal Shalabi and helped grow the organization into a trusted community institution serving thousands of individuals and families throughout the Chicagoland area. Through culturally responsive programs and services, AAFS has strengthened families, supported community well-being, and expanded access to opportunity for communities in the region.

Inspired by her father’s belief in the power of education, Nareman established this scholarship to support the next generation of nonprofit leaders committed to serving their communities.

Scholarship Eligibility

  • Must be currently enrolled or intending to enroll at an accredited college or university in Illinois.
  • Open to undergraduate or graduate students. Undergraduate students of any grade level are eligible, including incoming freshmen, sophomores, juniors, and seniors.
  • Open to students of any race, ethnicity, religion, nationality, or citizenship status, including international students.
  • Must have a cumulative GPA of 3.0 or higher.
  • Must demonstrate financial need.
  • Must demonstrate a commitment to pursuing a career in nonprofit leadership, philanthropy, community development, advocacy, social impact, public service, social work, or a related field.
  • Must be studying a degree program that supports their intended nonprofit, philanthropic, or community-serving career goals. Applicants whose academic major does not directly reflect these fields may still be eligible if they can demonstrate a clear commitment to a nonprofit or community-serving career path.
  • List leadership, volunteer, or service activities in their community, school, campus, or other organizations.
  • Must agree to provide career data upon graduation.