A new opportunity is emerging for aspiring journalists at Illinois Valley Community College. Alexandria Braboy, La Salle County Board member and former journalist, has created a $500 scholarship called The Pen is Mightier Journalism Scholarship. Braboy, an IVCC and University of Illinois graduate, says her time at IVCC was transformative. The scholarship aims to support students pursuing journalism and continues Braboy’s dedication to education and civic engagement. Applications for the 2026-27 academic year will open in December. Those interested in applying or inquiring about other scholarships can contact IVCC Foundation Director Tracy Beattie at [email protected] for details.
According to Braboy, “There is nothing more powerful than the written word. This is the time to offer opportunities to students who want to pursue journalism and protect the First Amendment. Each and every dream for the greater good is possible, but we need timely, unbiased and accurate news shared to all. The way to meaningful and transformational change is through sharing our struggles through writing.”
Braboy said IVCC had a great influence on her life. “IVCC positively changed my life forever, and I am forever grateful.”