Michael Bermes Memorial Scholarship

The Michael Bermes Memorial Scholarship is open to students who have physical disabilities and a minimum 3.0 GPA; preference will be given to students who are residents of Aurora, IL. The Michael Bermes Memorial Scholarship was established in 2026 by Michael’s family to honor his legacy. We hope that this scholarship reaches those with Michael’s same spirit and drive for higher education. Michael was diagnosed with Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy at the age of 5. Despite his physical limitations, he faced life with strength, resilience, and determination. Michael graduated from West Aurora High School in 2013, where he was a member of the National Honor Society. He then earned his Associate’s Degree from Waubonsee Community College in 2016 and his Bachelor’s Degree from Northern Illinois University in 2019, graduating Cum Laude. The scholarship may cover all or part of tuition and required course fees.