Sesi Aromavo Awarded 2026 Des Plaines History Center Higher Education Scholarship

Maine East High School graduating senior Sesi Aromavo has been named the recipient of the Des Plaines History Center’s 2026 Higher Education Scholarship. The $1,000 award will help them continue their studies this fall at Washington University in St. Louis, MO.

The 2026 scholarship essay theme focused on civic responsibility in a modern democracy as our nation prepares for its 250th anniversary. Students were invited to discuss how they and their generation can work at the local, state, and federal levels to bring the founding principles of liberty, equality, and democratic engagement closer to reality.

Ms. Aromavo’s winning essay stood out for its thoughtful and personal examination of what it means to be an engaged citizen today. Drawing from both historical and contemporary examples, she connected the ideals expressed in the Constitution and Declaration of Independence to modern-day issues involving immigration, civic activism, and equal protection under the law. Through reflections on her own leadership, volunteer service, advocacy, and family responsibilities, she demonstrated how young people can actively participate at every level to promote democracy and make meaningful contributions to our country.

“Sesi didn’t just write about citizenship in the abstract,” said Scholarship Chair Elizabeth Makelim, “She connected it directly to her own life and experiences. As the child of a first-generation immigrant from Nigeria, she provided a wonderful perspective on civic engagement, leadership, and opportunity. Students like Sesi give me great hope for the future of our nation and the next generation of civic leaders.” The essay is available to read at desplaineshistory.org.

In addition to her essay and high academic achievement, Ms. Aromavo’s leadership roles, extracurricular involvement, community service, and recommendations from teachers and guidance counselors were also important factors in the scholarship selection process.

Representatives from the History Center presented Aromavo with a certificate recognizing her achievement on Wednesday, May 13, at the Maine East High School Honors Night. “All of us at the History Center are proud to support Ms. Aromavo’s educational journey with this scholarship,” said Board President Stan Kotecki.

The History Center’s annual Higher Education Scholarship was created by the Board of Trustees to inspire the next generation of leaders by encouraging critical thinking, cultural understanding, and community engagement. It is open to graduating high school seniors living in a Des Plaines ZIP code.

For more information about the scholarship, current exhibits, programs, and upcoming events, visit desplaineshistory.org.

Read Ms. Aromavo's essay.