Scholarships

Each year the Department of Biology awards over $9,000 in awards and scholarships to declared upper class biology majors and graduating seniors who have demonstrated clear evidence of academic excellence in biology and environmental science.

These awards and scholarships are been made possible by the generosity of past alums, faculty, and family members of former faculty members and students who have made a mark in the world of the Life Sciences. A brief explanation follows of the purpose and history of each award and scholarship.

A.B. Modine Scholarship

This scholarship was established by Mr. A. B. Modine, the founder of Modine Manufacturing of Racine, Wisconsin. Art Modine’s father built Old Main and young Art walked the campus while construction was taking place. Scholarships are to go to students in the field of science.

Dr. Kenneth Oliver Nelson Memorial Scholarship

Dr. Kenneth Oliver Nelson was a doctor who lived in Princeton, Illinois for a good part of his life. He was a Missionary of the Evangelical Covenant Church to China for a number of years, and his son was the late Dr. Burton Nelson of North Park Seminary. The scholarship was established at Dr. Kenneth Nelson death. The award is to go to students in the sciences with a preference to students considering pre-medical careers.

Thomas Vikander Memorial Scholarship

Dr. Thomas Vikander was a graduate of North Park University who died early in his medical career. The Scholarship is for students who show outstanding potential for a career in medicine.

Dr. Jack W. Graffin Scholarship Fund

Dr Griffin was a medical general practitioner who practiced most of his life on the south side of Chicago. The scholarship is for students interested in a career in medicine.

Ralph Nordstrom Memorial Fund

A graduate of North Park University who was Physical Therapist. Award for those interested in the allied health sciences.

Professor And Mrs. C. J. Wilson Memorial Scholarship

Professor Wilson was a science teacher at North Park University. Wilson Hall is named after him. The scholarship is for students interested in the sciences.

A.T. Johnson Scholarship

Long time late member of the Biology Department. He established this award for students interested in majoring in Biology.

High Score On Biology Comprehensive Exam Award

Given to a graduating senior for the highest score on the biology comprehensive exam.

Ralph Lowell Award For Faith And Learning Award

Named for the late biology Professor Ralph Lowell and given to a graduating senior who has shown excellence in the integration of the Christian Faith and the biological sciences.

Robert Tofte Award For Field And Environmental Biology

Named for the late Professor of Biology Robert Tofte and given to a graduating senior who has shown academic excellence and participation in field and environmental biology.

E. James Kennedy Award For Undergraduate Research

Named for the Late Professor of Biology and long time Department chair. Given to a graduating senior for excellence in undergraduate research.