We’re thrilled to share that Evelyn Halbach has been selected as this year’s scholarship recipient, earning a $3,000 award! As an incoming freshman at Washington University, founder of EcoFrenzy: The Pollination Game, and the Hyde Park Wizardry Camp—her list of accomplishments are truly inspiring. The judges were so impressed with all of the applicants that they also granted $500 each to the other finalists. Evelyn, a graduate of our 2024 YEA! Chicago cohort, is settling in to her first year at Washington University and double majoring in Marketing and English—congratulations, Evelyn!

"When I joined the YEA! program, I had no idea just how instrumental it would be in helping me discover a passion for business. The process of launching a product helped me experiment with so many areas of business and eventually fall in love with advertising. I loved how each choice, from partnering with a sustainable manufacturer to choosing nature organizations to partner with for community outreach, was a chance to build out a narrative that spoke to my theme of environmental advocacy. Getting to shape my business through the cultivation of these choices really spoke to me, and helped me decide to pursue a future career centered on crafting brand identity.

With the help of this scholarship, I am pursuing this dream at Washington University in St. Louis where I am double majoring in Marketing and English. Throughout my time here, I hope to explore this interdisciplinary course of studies to combine my love of storytelling and brand building, with a hope to eventually work in advertising. Thanks to YEA!, I have grown both personally and professionally, and learned countless lessons in determination and problem solving that will serve me well through college and beyond."

The Jean Shuman Memorial Scholarship was established by Edgar Shuman and his family as a tribute to his late wife. Jean, a Pittsburgh, PA native, attended the Julliard School of Music. Following graduation, she appeared at Radio City Music Hall and in Broadway shows. Later, while raising her children, she continued to touch thousands of people with her deep love and understanding of classical and popular music, performing at festivals, supper clubs, and concerts throughout the United States and Canada. Jean had a lifelong commitment to education – and even started saving for her future children's’ college education on her honeymoon. She was recognized by all that knew her as a truly kind and compassionate person and was appreciated for her lifelong commitment to her family and art. Read more about the Jean Shuman Scholarship for YEA! Chicago graduates HERE.

As this year’s scholarship honoree, Evelyn has shown so much passion and generosity! Through her integrity, courage, and skills that reflect the YEA! values, we know she will succeed in both business and life. Congratulations again, Evelyn!