LETTER FROM THE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

Dear Pullman Scholars and Alumni,

As we celebrate the Pullman Educational Foundation’s 75th year, we reflect with pride on our

mission and continued commitment to supporting and uplifting Pullman Scholars at every

stage of their journey.

This year, we are thrilled to announce a 20% increase in our incoming scholar class.

We selected 32 new Pullman Scholars who graduated from 29 different high schools across

Cook County, and welcomed them into our community at our Symposium in May. We look

forward to officially introducing them this fall.

We also extend our warmest congratulations to our recent college graduates, who are now

joining the ranks of Pullman Alumni. Their accomplishments inspire us and reaffirm the

importance of our shared commitment to education and opportunity.

In response to the evolving needs of our scholars, we’re excited to launch a new benefit: free,

online mental health therapy sessions provided through BetterHelp. These services, led by

licensed professionals, will be available to all current Pullman Scholars whenever they need

support. We recognize that emotional well-being is essential to success and are proud to offer

this resource as part of our holistic approach to scholar support.

At Pullman, we are guided by the voices and needs of our scholars. Their feedback shapes our

programs and helps us provide meaningful, impactful support. We aim to partner with each

scholar through the challenges and triumphs of their academic and professional journeys.

As we continue to celebrate our scholars’ accomplishments, we hope these updates bring

both encouragement and inspiration. Let this milestone year also be a time of connection -

an opportunity to learn, grow, and strengthen bonds within our extraordinary Pullman

Scholar community.

With gratitude and excitement for the year ahead,

SCENES FROM THE SYMPOSIUM:

The annual Pullman Scholar Symposium is always a much-anticipated event for the Foundation. Once again, 100% of the Symposium speakers and panelists are fellow Pullman Alumni who graciously volunteered their time and invaluable experiences to lead discussions on relevant topics such as interviewing tips, maximizing networking opportunities, and navigating life after college. This year, the Scholar-Alumni Reception included an amazing Chicago River boat tour and the largest alumni turnout ever!

“The reception and symposium were extremely beneficial. I learned a lot of valuable information regarding interviews, future jobs, and college career opportunities. Additionally, the reception on the boat was a fantastic way to meet alumni, build connections, and continue to grow my network!”

Siena Martorina, Northwestern University ‘29

“It was great to come back and join Pullman for the 75th anniversary. After studying abroad for the past 5 months, it was nice to come home and share my stories with the new scholars and tell them about my college journey thus far. I wish them much success, and I can't wait to hear about their first year next May.”



Othel Owen, University of Southern California ‘26

Thank you to our Symposium sponsors: JPMorgan Chase and Ferrara Candy Company. For video and photos of the Scholar Symposium and Alumni Reception, please visit: www.pullmanfoundation.org

Stay connected by joining our dedicated LinkedIn group for

Pullman Scholars and Alumni only.

Visit www.pullmanfoundation.org/scholars-alumni/ to join!

Join us in celebrating our new 22 graduates who earned their degrees across 17 colleges and universities. We applaud your significant achievements! Here are just a few highlights from our Class of 2025:

Want to grow your network? Connect to our dedicated Pullman Scholar Community LinkedIn group page for Scholars and Alumni only.

Visit www.pullmanfoundation.org/connect to join!

Keep in touch by following us on social media!

Thank you for investing in the next generation of Pullman Scholars and their successes.

312-422-0444 info@pullmanfoundation.org www.pullmanfoundation.org