Gifts, Grants and Scholarships
Transforming Lives Through Scholarships
Since 1932, Lewis University has remained committed to its Mission of providing a high-quality liberal arts and professional education grounded in the Lasallian tradition. At the heart of that Mission is a belief in the potential of every student, and thanks to the generosity of our donors, that belief is turned into opportunity through scholarship support.
Each year, more than 3,100 students receive scholarships that not only ease financial burdens but open doors to transformative experiences, personal growth, and academic achievement. These scholarships are more than just financial assistance—they are powerful affirmations that someone believes in the dreams of our students.
Meet Briana Calvillo, a second-year student in the Diagnostic Medical Sonography program. As a recipient of donor-funded scholarship support, Briana is thriving inside and outside the classroom.
“Your belief in my potential has inspired me to work even harder to achieve my academic and career goals,” she shared. “I am part of the Tri-Beta Biology Honors Society. I am also a New Flyer Guide and a peer mentor in Lewis’ First Gen Flyers Program. I am here to show the world that first-generation students can excel in all areas of higher education!”
Students like Briana are the reason scholarships matter. They not only propel the next generation of leaders and change-makers forward, they reflect the core Mission values of community, faith, and service that define Lewis University.
Thank you to every donor who supports a Lewis scholarship. Your belief in our Lasallian Mission is changing lives and, as a result, our world!
Soaring Toward the Future with United Aviate
On February 19, 2025, more than 50 Lewis University aviation students had the thrilling opportunity to visit United Airlines' headquarters at Willis Tower for the annual “State of United Aviate Program Watch Party Celebration.” This exciting event offered students a firsthand look at the future of aviation—and their potential place in it.
The celebration featured inspiring remarks from two Lewis alumni who are now flying for United. When asked how it feels to be in the cockpit, one proudly said, “It’s amazing to be a United pilot.”
Since forming a partnership with United Aviate in October 2023, Lewis University has been opening direct pathways for students to the flight deck. This collaboration not only provides a clear hiring route, but also reinforces our commitment to launching lifelong aviation careers.
With opportunities like these, Lewis Flyers are truly cleared for takeoff!
Empowering the Next Generation:
The Cherilyn G. Murer Women in Business Club
The Cherilyn G. Murer Women in Business Club is not only the fastest-growing club at Lewis University, but also one of its most dynamic and transformative. With an active and engaged membership, the club has quickly become a hub of professional empowerment and mentorship for students who aim to lead in the worlds of business and entrepreneurship.
Ryan D. Butt, Dean of Lewis’ College of Business, expressed his enthusiasm for the club’s success. “As the fastest-growing club at the University, with an engaged and active membership, the Cherilyn G. Murer Women in Business Club demonstrates how its presence is fulfilling a much-needed and desired experience for many of our students,” he said. “We are beyond grateful for Cherilyn’s commitment and vision for the future of this club.”
Cherilyn Murer ‘75, a distinguished business and legal professional, serves as the club’s founding member. Reflecting on her journey, Murer shared that she had few female role models early in her career. Despite this, she forged her path, building an innovative and nationally recognized consulting model in the evolving healthcare industry. Today, she continues to lead with steadfast integrity and deep industry knowledge, serving clients around the globe.
“I have truly been inspired by the young women of Lewis University,” Murer said. “It is a joy to collaborate with Dean Butt to fulfill his vision to excel in business and entrepreneurship. I am honored to be the founding member of the Women in Business group, and delighted to help facilitate its legacy of mentorship.”
Housed in the College of Business, the Women in Business Club offers students of all majors opportunities to engage in important conversations on business trends and challenges, connect with industry professionals, and benefit from mentorship by accomplished alumni and leaders. It provides a nurturing environment where members grow their confidence, expand their network, and develop the tools they need for success.
This spring, the club even organized a Business Clothes Closet where they collected gently used professional clothing, and then hosted an event for students where they could come through and pick out professional pieces for free.
Marla, a current member, described the club’s impact: “The Cherilyn G. Murer Women in Business Club at Lewis University is a transformative force, fostering leadership skills, creating a supportive community, and providing mentorship and valuable career development opportunities. This club empowers women to break barriers, confidently pursue our ambitions, and emerge as influential leaders in our fields. Joining this club at Lewis has shaped me into a confident woman in business, equipped with the skills and network to succeed in my future career.”
For more information or to get involved with the Women in Business Club, please email LewisWIB@gmail.com.
Grant To Help Students Studying Addiction Counseling
Dr. Kimberly Duris, Professor of Psychology, received a $170,000 grant to support students in the university’s Clinical Mental Health Counseling program’s Advanced Training Program in Addictions.
The funding will be allocated toward Lewis University master’s degree student tuition, scholarships, internship stipends, and certification-related payments to obtain Certified Alcohol and Other drug counselor credentials.
The grant is sponsored by the Illinois Certification Board and the Illinois Department of Human Services/Division of Substance Use Prevention and Recovery to help expand the number of trained addiction counselors in Illinois.
