Freemasonry is the world's oldest and largest fraternity, uniting men of good character from every race, religion, background, and walk of life. At its core, Freemasonry teaches personal growth, service to family and faith, devotion to country, and commitment to community.

One of the most meaningful ways P.G. Porter Lodge No. 142 fulfills these principles is through its Educational Scholarship Program.

Investing in the Next Generation

Education opens doors, creates opportunities, and transforms lives. At P.G. Porter Lodge No. 142, we believe that investing in education is one of the greatest investments we can make in our communities and our future.

By supporting these students, we are investing not only in individual success but also in the future strength of our communities.

A Legacy of Service and Opportunity

Since receiving its Charter in 1974, P.G. Porter Lodge No. 142 has proudly served the Scott Air Force Base community and surrounding areas for more than fifty years.

As part of that commitment, the Lodge has awarded more than 125 educational scholarships, providing over $120,000 in financial assistance to high school seniors and college students pursuing higher education.

For over five decades, our scholarship program has remained a cornerstone of our mission—promoting education, encouraging leadership, and empowering future generations to achieve their goals.

Our scholars have gone on to pursue careers in medicine, pharmacy, journalism, forensic science, business, veterinary medicine, and many other professions. Their success reflects the lasting impact of educational opportunity and community support and is part of a legacy that has invested in education since 1974.

2026 Scholarship Awards

In 2026, P.G. Porter Lodge No. 142 proudly awarded six educational scholarships to students accepted into the following institutions and fields of study:

• Spelman College, Atlanta, GA — Biochemistry (Pre-Medicine)

• University of Missouri, Columbia, MO — Journalism and Political Science

• East Mississippi Community College, Scooba, MS — Veterinary Medicine/Nursing

• Indiana University, Bloomington, IN — Marketing and Finance

• Southern Illinois University Edwardsville, IL — Pharmacy

• University of New Haven, CT —Forensic Science

To respect the privacy of our recipients and their families, student identities are not publicly disclosed. We are confident these scholars will make meaningful contributions in their chosen professions and communities.

Apply for the T.J. Collins Memorial Education Scholarship

P.G. Porter Lodge No. 142 is pleased to announce that applications are now being accepted for the 2027 T.J. Collins Memorial Education Scholarship.

Each year, the Lodge awards scholarships to deserving students who demonstrate academic achievement, good character, leadership potential, and financial need. Our goal is to help students pursue higher education while continuing our long-standing commitment to investing in the next generation of leaders.

Application Period

• Applications Available: October 1, 2026

• Application Deadline: March 15, 2027

• Recipients Notified: April 16, 2027

Eligibility Requirements

Applicants must:

• Be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident.

• Be a graduating high school senior or currently enrolled in a college or accredited

• technical training program.

• Have been accepted into a college, university, or accredited technical training institution.

• Submit two (2) letters of recommendation from a teacher or school counselor.

• Submit a current academic transcript.

• Submit a brief essay (one paragraph maximum) describing future educational and career

• goals. Community and school activities may also be included.

• Submit a wallet-size photograph.

Please note that completion of an application does not guarantee the award of a scholarship. Due to the number of applications received, only selected applicants will be notified.

Download the 2027 T.J. Collins Memorial Education Scholarship Application

https://docs.google.com/document/d/e/2PACX-1vQ3U3JqIVqLhhFsqnBaAkbQ_mH1dArzyEhpfTiujdZkgjaEQqwQWT5vGug_fwDxeA/pub

Completed applications and all required supporting documents must be postmarked or received no later than March 15, 2027.

Applications should be mailed to:

P.G. Porter Lodge No. 142

Attn: Scholarship Committee

402 Rebecca Drive

O’Fallon, IL 62269-2746

We thank you for your interest in the T.J. Collins Memorial Education Scholarship Program and wish you every success in your educational journey.

How You Can Help

P.G. Porter Lodge No. 142 is a 501(c) (3) charitable organization dedicated to supporting education and community service.

Your generosity helps us continue awarding scholarships and creating opportunities for deserving students. Every contribution—large or small—helps open doors, create opportunities, and change lives.

Make a Donation

P.G. Porter Lodge No. 142

Cash App: $PGPorterLodge142

Mail Contributions To:

P.G. Porter Lodge No. 142

P.O. Box 25036

Scott AFB, IL 62225

Together, we can continue investing in education, strengthening our communities, and helping future leaders achieve their dreams.

Thank you for supporting the educational mission of P.G. Porter Lodge No. 142.

"Education is not merely an investment in an individual—it is an investment in the future of our community."

P. G. Porter Lodge No. 142 proudly honors our Brothers for their outstanding service and dedication to Prince Hall Freemasonry