On July 26, 2025, the Tzu Chi Chicago Branch hosted its annual Scholarship Award Ceremony at the Jing Si Hall, bringing together students, teachers, and parents to celebrate academic achievements and a commitment to community service. This year, nine students received scholarships, including high school graduates preparing for university and current university students who were previous recipients. The ceremony was a warm gathering for these students and their families.

Nurturing Future Leaders

The scholarship application process, which opened several months prior, was open to graduating high school students and past awardees. A dedicated team of young Tzu Chi volunteers from Chicago, some of whom are preparing to become certified Tzu Chi Commissioners this year, meticulously reviewed each application. They conducted in-depth interviews either at the Tzu Chi Chicago Service Center in Chinatown, through home visits, or via Zoom, to gain a comprehensive understanding of each applicant's background, accomplishments, and future aspirations.

Abraham Chien (簡澤兆), a volunteer, hosted the award ceremony, extending a warm welcome to all guests and commending the students for their courage and perseverance in navigating challenges in today's dynamic world. The event featured an introductory video about Tzu Chi, a review of the Tzu Chi Midwest Chicago Branch's activities in 2024, and an interactive Q&A session to deepen attendees' understanding of Tzu Chi's global and local impact.

Chong Hsieh (謝濟介), Executive Director of Tzu Chi Chicago Branch, addressed the students, encouraging them to continue their efforts and to remain engaged in community service even while pursuing their studies. He expressed sincere admiration for their dedication. Huey Shann Sue (丘蕙珊), Deputy Executive Director of the Chicago Branch, emphasized the scholarship's role: "We hope that through these scholarships, we can help students alleviate the financial pressure of attending university. These students not only excel academically but are also actively involved in community service. We expect them to continue helping more people in need in their spare time, rather than being forced to work long hours to pay for high tuition fees."

Chong Hsieh also extended gratitude to the scholarship review team. Each of the nine recipients received a $1,500 scholarship, along with a thoughtful gift bag containing a bamboo bank, a Jing Si Aphorism book, eco-friendly chopsticks, seaweed crackers, a peace charm, and a copy of Tzu Chi Monthly.

Inspired by Compassion

During the ceremony, students and their families shared their personal stories and journeys, expressing profound gratitude for the scholarship's impact on their educational paths.

Audrey Setiawan, who is set to attend New York University, found deep inspiration in Tzu Chi's origins.

I felt so inspired that people with little can still give. This motivated me to reflect on my own experiences and realize that you don’t need a lot to be able to help others. When I first researched Tzu Chi, I saw that it was founded by Master Chen Yan and the 30 housewives who started it. Seeing that empowered me as an Asian American woman who wants to give back to the community. —Audrey Setiawan

Audrey highlighted the financial relief the scholarship provides. "University tuition is really high, and every bit of help matters. This scholarship is a very important step towards my educational goals, and I'm excited to continue studying business and politics at New York University. It represents someone trusting me and expecting me to make an impact on the world, which makes me feel empowered. I feel a strong sense of belonging here; you are a very kind group of people, and I am honored to be a scholarship recipient."

Her father, Oscar Setiawan, expressed his pride, stating, "Any parent would be delighted by their child's achievements. For me, it's even more gratifying to see Audrey find an organization whose philosophy aligns with her community service. Tzu Chi recognized her efforts and affirmed them, which is wonderful." He added that Tzu Chi's work is "a blessing" that inspires the next generation, recalling that he had heard of Tzu Chi growing up in Indonesia, knowing it helped many people, even though he hadn't participated himself.

Dreams of Service

Armoni Butts, who aspires to become a traveling nurse, was particularly moved by Tzu Chi's disaster relief efforts.

What impressed me most was what you do in different states and countries, especially the actions in Indiana. I want to help those who have experienced tornado disasters. This is something I want to be involved in.
— Armoni Butts

She noted that with her annual tuition of $52,000, the scholarship plays a crucial role in alleviating her financial burden.

For Weichen Chuang (莊維真), the scholarship is a personal testament to her long-standing involvement with Tzu Chi. "I have been involved in Tzu Chi activities since I was a child," she revealed. "It has truly fostered my personal growth and influenced my career choices." She emphasized how Tzu Chi instilled in her the values of compassion and charity, which she hopes to embody in her future endeavors.

Erica Ruiz-Yamamoto expressed surprise at receiving the scholarship but was drawn to Tzu Chi's mission and hoped to build connections. "I think what really inspired me was all of the volunteer efforts. I saw videos of the global efforts, but I think what was also really inspiring is what they are doing right here in their community locally and the multitude of ways that we can get involved just as volunteers." She highlighted that the scholarship would ease her financial strain at Northwestern University, allowing her to focus on her studies and experiences.

A Path of Growth and Giving

Yu-ling Yeh (葉宥伶), an alumna of a Tzu Chi kindergarten fifteen years ago, candidly spoke about her personal transformation. "I used to be very self-centered and selfish," she admitted. However, moving to Illinois and joining Tzu Shao, Tzu Chi's youth group, as she grew older "gave me a whole new perspective on the meaning of giving." As a medical student, she views the scholarship as a constant reminder:

It will keep me grounded and remind me why I wanted to do this in the first place, whenever I feel lost.

Abbey Chaidez, a repeat scholarship recipient, focused her essay on Tzu Chi's core principles: compassion, kindness, peace, and harmony. She reflected on the profound impact of financial aid: "Even though the money might not be as much as other opportunities, it truly makes a huge difference." Abbey concluded by expressing her deep gratitude, feeling that Tzu Chi "opened your doors and welcomed me into your family." She added, "Knowing that so many people put in effort for me to receive this money makes me feel cared for as I go to college."

Dennis Lee, a Tzu Ching youth alumnus, introduced the Tzu Chi Collegiate Association (Tzu Ching) to the students, encouraging them to continue their volunteer service during their university years.

The ceremony concluded with another Tzu Ching youth alumnus, Kuanhung Lin (林冠宏), leading everyone in learning the sign language for the song "One Family", allowing guests to deeply feel the love of Tzu Chi members, fostering a sense of mutual care and belonging. Before the ceremony ended, everyone was invited to pray for themselves, their families, and for peace and freedom from disasters in society. Volunteers also prepared a delicious vegetarian lunch for all attendees.

The Tzu Chi Chicago scholarship ceremony was more than just an awards presentation; it was a testament to the power of education and compassion. By supporting these bright and service-minded students, Tzu Chi not only eases their financial burdens but also cultivates a new generation of leaders dedicated to making a positive impact in their communities and beyond, embodying the spirit of selfless giving.

Written by Dennis Lee (李侑達), Huey Shann Sue(丘蕙珊)

Translated by Mindy Chen (陳敏理)

Source: 芝加哥獎學金發放 鼓勵學子圓夢想 ​