Moraine Valley Alum Earns IIT Presidential Scholarship

PALOS HILLS -- Moraine Valley graduate Helena Janinah, of Orland Park, has been granted a Presidential Scholarship to attend the Illinois Institute of Technology in Chicago. The scholarship, which offers $25,000 per academic year and a stipend for housing, is awarded based on academic achievement, essay strength and leadership qualities.

“I was pleasantly surprised to receive this scholarship,” Janinah said. “My parents are so proud of me. This is a giant step, and I really feel so blessed I can attend a renowned university and discover the endless opportunities that IIT offers.”

She completed her associate of science degree in December and begins her studies in January at IIT, where she will major in chemical engineering. While Janinah looks forward to attending IIT and someday working in a renewable resource plant with windmills or solar energy, she said she is happy she chose to start her education at Moraine Valley.

“What made it a good place for me are the small classrooms, the sense of community, campus life activities and so many opportunities,” she said. “Plus, there are so many resources like the tutoring center, advising offices and the Job Resource Center.”

While at Moraine Valley, the honors student was inducted into Phi Theta Kappa, a member of the Art Club and founding member of the Orthodox Christian Fellowship Club.

“All of us at Moraine Valley are extremely proud of Helena’s stellar academic achievements, and we wish her incredible success in her studies at IIT,” said Dr. Scott Friedman, dean of Student Engagement.