Ellen Melinda Smith Odeh Scholarship Fund

Everyone has a story and is deserving of a chance to pursue their dreams and life goals, regardless of their circumstances. 

In 2015, Ellen Melinda passed away from Pulmonary Hypertension (PH). She was diagnosed at just thirteen years old and given a prognosis of two-to-six years to live. Despite often being told that her lung disease would make it impossible to live a normal life, Ellen didn't take the time she had for granted. Her curiosity of PH and passion for helping others motivated her to apply for nursing school while participating in multiple clinical trials to help others with the disease. Despite those in the medical field telling her it would be impossible for her to be a nurse, she was persistent and overcame multiple heart failures and temporary blindness along her path to finally graduating Nursing school in 2014 and securing a job as a Nurse in a medical clinic until her passing in 2015. Throughout her 17 years with PH, she maintained a positive outlook in life despite her daily physical challenges with the intention of helping others, providing a positive outlook, and learning as much as she could along the way. She loved history and learning about the medical field.

This scholarship aims to honor the memory of Ellen Melinda by supporting students who share her passion for learning and helping others.

Any undergraduate student in Illinois who is pursuing nursing may apply for this scholarship opportunity if they have a passion for learning, helping people, and overcoming barriers.

To apply, tell us about a challenge you have faced and overcome, how your love of learning or helping others has affected your journey, and how you will make a difference with your education.