A photo of students sitting at computers in one of the labs at Northeastern's El Centro location.

Monday, September 18, 2023

Northeastern Illinois University and the Society for Information Management (SIM) Chicago are proud to announce a new partnership, resulting in the first scholarship for undergraduate students in the Department of Computer Science

SIM Chicago provides a unique opportunity to interact with thought leaders throughout the technology and business fields. The organization sponsors regular programs for members to network, hosts social and philanthropic events to enhance the community, and acts as a forum for business and technology leaders in partnership with peer executive organizations in Chicago.    

As part of its philanthropic efforts, SIM Chicago will award two $2,500 scholarships this fall. Applicants must be full-time or part-time Northeastern undergraduate students with a declared major in Computer Science or Cybersecurity, have financial need, be willing to participate in SIM Chicago events and have a minimum 3.0 GPA. The scholarship will be administered annually through the Northeastern Illinois University Foundation in partnership with the University’s College of Business and Technology (CBT). 

George Wang is the Chief Marketing Officer of Peterson Technology Partners and a SIM Chicago Board Member, Vice President of Philanthropy. He also serves on Northeastern’s College of Business and Technology Executive Advisory Council.

“SIM Chicago believes that helping to develop the next generation of IT leaders is critical to our collective future success,” said George, who coordinated this scholarship. “Scholarships provide valuable support to students pursuing studies in business and technology fields, helping them achieve their educational goals and preparing them for successful careers in the tech industry.”

The SIM Chicago chapter is one of the largest in the international association with more than 200 members. Along with scholarship funds, Northeastern student awardees will be invited to participate in regular events hosted for SIM members to network, share knowledge and join in social and philanthropic opportunities. In addition to the new Northeastern partnership, SIM Chicago also sponsors scholarships at the City Colleges of Chicago, DePaul University and Loyola University Chicago.

“These scholarships play a crucial role in promoting education, producing a quality candidate pipeline and fostering well-trained talent ready to contribute to the technology sector,” said Xiwei Wang, Northeastern’s Chair of the Department of Computer Science. “We are incredibly grateful for this partnership with SIM Chicago.” 

Northeastern’s College of Business and Technology, which houses the Department of Computer Science, prepares students for a successful education and career in business and technology for further study of business topics at the graduate level. The College is accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business International (AACSB). In addition to an undergraduate major and minor in Computer Science, the department also offers a graduate degree and endorsement in the subject.

“By collaborating with the College of Business and Technology, SIM Chicago will significantly impact the lives of our computer science students,” said Dean Michael Bedell. “Our students will gain real-world experiences, insights from industry leaders, participate in academic research and technology innovation, as well as positively contribute to the role of technology within their communities.”

Visit the CBT Scholarships and Giving web page for information about all of the College’s scholarships and ways to contribute to student success.