Sand Bluff Bird Observatory Dave Seal Volunteers Scholarship

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Supporting students pursuing careers related to the mission of Sand Bluff Bird Observatory.

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Dave SealDave Seal is a lifelong birder and raptor bander, a friend of Lee Johnson, and a dedicated volunteer at Sand Bluff. He is passionate about birds and preserving the environment in which they live. He continues to volunteer at the banding station, helping to train and mentor new volunteers.347844458_221335177312963_5791249874482350731_n

Sand Bluff Bird Observatory was established in March 1967 by Lee G. Johnson to learn more about birds migrating through Northern Illinois. Located within Colored Sands Forest Preserve in Northwest Winnebago County, Illinois, Sand Bluff Bird Observatory is one of the largest small-bird banding operations in the country that is open to the public! Their primary mission is the research and study of avian species through banding and data collection, primarily in the Rock River Valley area. The data is used to increase the body of scientific knowledge and awareness to facilitate the continued protection of avian species in North America. A secondary mission is the education of the public through programming.

Three educational scholarships have been established to honor those who have been critical to the continued mission of Sand Bluff Bird Observatory.

Sand Bluff Bird Observatory Environmental Studies Scholarship

Sand Bluff Bird Observatory Lee and Lynda Johnson Founders Scholarship

 

 

Scholarship Spotlight: Sand Bluff Bird Observatory Scholarships

Hear from John Longhenry, longtime volunteer and board vice president for the Sand Bluff Bird Observatory, about their work and the goals for their new scholarships, awarded for the first time in CFNIL's 2024 scholarship season.

 

Eligibility

Every CFNIL scholarship has a unique intent, often reflecting the background of the donor or person in whose memory the fund was created. CFNIL uses an online "universal" application to ensure the most efficient process; as an applicant, you do not need to predetermine which scholarships you should apply for. Complete ONE application each cycle, and your answers to a series of yes/no and personal background questions automatically match you to every scholarship you are eligible for. Because our scholarships were created to support students of all ages, backgrounds, and aspirations, we encourage every scholarship seeker (high school graduating seniors and older) to apply!
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  • Closed

    This scholarship is part of the Winter application cycle.

    This scholarship is open from December 1st to February 1st.

    Learn How to Apply

  • Specifications

    For the purposes of this scholarship, environmental and conservation studies may be defined as: environmental science, conservation science, ecology, biology, biodiversity, earth science, environmental policy, natural sciences, environmental chemistry, atmospheric science, ornithology, or environmental engineering.

  • Written Prompt

    Each CFNIL scholarship is created with a specific purpose in mind. As you complete the application, the system automatically matches you with every scholarship for which you are eligible and will present you with a specific written prompt for each. You're encouraged to craft a unique response to each prompt to show the reviewers why you're the best candidate for that scholarship.