Hard Rock Casino Introduces Scholarship Program for Gary High School Graduates
New Scholarship Opportunity for Gary Students
High school graduates from Gary, Indiana, now have an exciting opportunity to attend college for free. Hard Rock Casino Northern Indiana, in partnership with the Urban League of Northwest Indiana, has launched a tuition-free scholarship program to support local students in achieving their higher education goals.
Program Details and Eligibility Requirements
This scholarship aims to remove financial obstacles for Gary’s youth, helping them pursue two- or four-year degree programs at Indiana University Northwest. Eligible applicants must be members of the Gary high school class of 2024, including graduates from public, private, charter, faith-based, or home schooling programs.
To qualify, students need to have earned a Core 40 diploma with at least a 2.5 GPA and completed between 30 and 40 hours of community service or volunteer work. Annual submission of the FAFSA and maintaining a 2.5 GPA each year at IU Northwest are also required to retain the scholarship.
Community Leaders Highlight the Program’s Importance
Matt Schuffert, president of Hard Rock Casino Northern Indiana, emphasized that the scholarship program is designed to inspire young people by showing them that their potential is unlimited. He expressed pride in being part of an initiative that helps turn those aspirations into reality.
Michael L. Suggs, chief operating officer for the City of Gary, praised the program as a powerful example of community partnership. He noted that working together opens doors for Gary’s youth, encouraging them to pursue their dreams and build successful futures in their hometown.
Dr. Vanessa Allen McCloud, President and CEO of the Urban League of Northwest Indiana, accepted a symbolic $250,000 donation from Hard Rock Casino to fund the scholarship. She pointed out that financial challenges often prevent first-generation and low-income students from attending college. This generous support will help eliminate those barriers for Gary students determined to reach their career ambitions.
Arrick Jackson, chancellor of Indiana University Northwest, described the scholarship as a symbol of possibility. He encouraged all eligible Gary students to apply, assuring them that higher education is within reach and that IU Northwest provides a supportive environment to grow, learn, and lead.
Interim chancellor Vicki Román-Lagunas also highlighted the transformative potential of Hard Rock Casino’s gift. She affirmed that the scholarship recipients represent the future of the region and praised the partnership as a strong example of how shared community goals can create meaningful impact.
