Larry R. Hall Memorial Scholarship Fund for Education and Training

Scholarship Sponsored by Tree Fund

Introduction — Larry R. Hall Memorial Scholarship

The Larry R. Hall Memorial Scholarship Fund for Education and Training was created by the Illinois Arborist Association to honor the legacy of Larry Hall — a past president of ISA, a lifelong Illinois arborist and tree advocate, the 1999 Arborist of the Year, and a passionate mentor for the next generation of tree professionals. Hall began his six-decade career in tree care at age 18 without formal training; through continuous learning he grew into a business owner, an influential proponent of urban forestry, and a steadfast supporter of students and young arborists. This endowed scholarship supports education and research in Illinois and helps continue his commitment to training future tree ambassadors.

Who is eligible

- High school seniors who will be entering a 2‑ or 4‑year college, university, or trade school; OR
- Returning college students pursuing their first associate’s or bachelor’s degree;
- Must be enrolled at an accredited U.S. college, university, or trade school;
- Applicants must demonstrate a sincere interest in the arboriculture industry and describe that interest in their application letter.

All of the following criteria must be met to qualify:
- Actively pursuing a professional career in arboricultural sciences or a related field;
- Minimum cumulative GPA of 2.5;
- Preference will be given to applicants who attend an Illinois college/university or who are Illinois residents;
- Membership in the Illinois Arborist Association required (student membership accepted).

Award details

- Award amount: $5,000 total.
- Payment schedule: paid in two installments — one disbursement for the fall semester and a second for the spring semester. The spring payment is contingent on re‑enrollment and meeting the scholarship’s GPA requirements.
- Up to $500 of the award may be used for books, supplies, or equipment.
- This scholarship is non‑renewable; applicants must reapply each year if they wish to be considered again.

Application window and submission

- Annual application period: January 15 through March 15.
- For the 2026 cycle specifically, TREE Fund will accept applications only between January 15 and March 15, 2026.
- To apply, use the TREE Fund online application portal (you will need to create an account or log in).

Required application materials (you can save progress while completing the portal)

- Current educational standing and enrollment status;
- Record of previous scholarships and extracurricular activities;
- Essay (up to 1,000 words) explaining why you chose your field, your career goals and objectives, and why you should be selected;
- Current academic transcript;
- Two letters of recommendation or contact information for two recommenders (one letter must come from your academic advisor).

Selection process and evaluation criteria

TREE Fund looks to support applicants who intend to begin and remain in careers in arboriculture, urban forestry, or related green industries. Essays, academic records, work experience, and extracurricular involvement should collectively convey the applicant’s commitment to such a career path.

- Applications are reviewed by TREE Fund’s Education Committee.
- Scoring rubric (maximum 100 points):
- Cumulative GPA: 20 points
- Essay: 30 points
- Advisor letter of recommendation: 20 points
- Second letter of recommendation: 15 points
- Demonstrated potential to continue a career in arboriculture/urban forestry/related fields: 15 points

Timeline and notification

- The Education Committee’s scholarship recommendations are presented to the TREE Fund Board of Trustees in May each year.
- Award decisions will be announced within two weeks after the Board’s decision.

Other policies

- TREE Fund is an equal opportunity organization and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, creed, gender, sexual orientation, disability, or national or ethnic origin.
- Current TREE Fund trustees and members of their immediate families are not eligible to receive TREE Fund scholarships.

Help us honor Larry Hall’s legacy by applying or sharing this opportunity with aspiring arborists and students who will carry forward his dedication to education and urban forestry.