Established as a gift in honor of Dr. Robert Seidl, the Robert Seidl Endowed Scholarship supports a member of Illinois State University’s men’s basketball team. Students who exhibit strong academic skills, service to their community, and significant character are considered for this award. Recipient Harouna Sissoko shared how receiving this athletic scholarship has helped shape his future.
Coming to campus, it was important to Sissoko to play a sport he is passionate about, all while pursuing a degree. The Robert Seidl Endowed Scholarship made Sissoko’s dream possible.
“The scholarship impacted me a lot because I’m able to get an education and play the sport that I love and am extremely grateful for,” he said.
Being a student-athlete is not the only aspect of college life that Sissoko takes pride in. He said how empowering it has been to have the opportunity through Illinois State to visit and interact with middle school students in the area.
“Some of my favorite experiences are doing community service and visiting middle schools to interact with kids and see them enjoy our company,” Sissoko said. “It is a great feeling.”
As a recreation and park management major, Sissoko knows the importance that athletics can bring to the community. Luckily for him, Illinois State Athletics’ donors share a similar passion for training and sports, and the scholarship in Dr. Robert Seidl’s honor makes it possible for student-athletes like Sissoko to thrive.
