Scholarship Opportunities
Our Partnership with REEF:
The Southwestern Illinois Board of REALTORS® (SIBR) is proud to partner with the REALTORS® Educational Foundation (REEF) to support educational opportunities that strengthen the future of the real estate industry. Through this partnership, SIBR helps invest in students who are pursuing careers connected to business, finance, law, and real estate-related fields—building a stronger, more knowledgeable industry for generations to come.
Richard “Dick” Wiegers Scholarship:
One of the key ways SIBR supports REEF is through the Richard “Dick” Wiegers Scholarship. This scholarship was created to make it possible for Illinois residents to pursue a college or university education in:
Business
Law
Finance
Graduate programs in Business
The Dick Wiegers Scholarship reflects a commitment to education, professional growth, and long-term investment in future leaders whose studies align with the real estate industry and related professions.
Scholarship Eligibility
To be eligible for the Richard “Dick” Wiegers Scholarship, applicants must:
Be an Illinois resident
Be pursuing a college or university education in Business, Law, Finance, or a graduate program in Business
These scholarships are intended to help qualified students pursue an education that will lead to productive, meaningful careers connected to the real estate industry.
About the REALTORS® Educational Foundation (REEF)
REEF scholarships are designed to support students whose educational paths align with careers in real estate and related industries. The Foundation’s mission is to help qualified individuals pursue higher education while fostering a culture of giving back.
It is the Foundation’s hope that each scholarship recipient will, during their career, contribute to the Foundation in support of the scholarship they received. This cycle of giving allows the fund to continue growing and ensures that future students have the same opportunity to pursue a vocation within the real estate industry.
How Our Golf Tournament Makes an Impact
SIBR’s annual golf tournament plays a vital role in supporting the Richard “Dick” Wiegers Scholarship through REEF. Proceeds from the tournament are directed toward scholarship funding, helping expand educational access for Illinois students pursuing relevant degrees.
By participating in, sponsoring, or supporting the SIBR Golf Tournament, members, affiliates, and community partners are directly investing in education and the future of the real estate profession. Every swing, sponsorship, and contribution helps open doors for students and strengthens the industry as a whole.
Investing in the Future of Real Estate
Through our partnership with REEF, the Richard “Dick” Wiegers Scholarship, and the success of our annual golf tournament, SIBR remains committed to education, professional development, and giving back. Together, we are helping students achieve their academic goals while ensuring a strong, educated future for the real estate industry in Illinois.