Methodist College is proud to introduce a new endowed fund that will help more students find the support they need to continue their education and achieve a rewarding career in healthcare. This fall, awards made possible by the Banks Family Student Stability Fund will be available to eligible students.
Established by Methodist College Chancellor Kayla Banks, Ph.D.; her husband, Bryan Banks, a member of the Carle Health East Region Board of Trustees; Agile Supply Company and Agile Construction Services, this fund will help cover basic needs and necessities for Methodist College students who may have challenges paying for housing, utilities, food, transportation, healthcare or childcare. Applicants can receive up to $2,000 per semester.
“I see what our students struggle with every day and can relate, as a first-generation college student who needed financial assistance, myself,” Dr. Banks said. “Life expenses and financial challenges can get in the way of academic success, and it is such an honor to do what we can to address that.”
Created as an endowment at Carle Health Center for Philanthropy, the Banks Family Student Stability Fund ensures that all initial and future contributions remain permanently invested, with fund support generated from investment earnings year after year.
“This endowed fund will provide stable, perpetual funding for students who need it the most,” Renae Cory, director of development, Carle Health Center for Philanthropy, said. “We’re honored to partner with the Banks family to meet a critical need at Methodist College and help secure Dr. Banks’ enduring legacy of supporting students.”
Interested students can apply for the Stability Fund during the Methodist College Fall Scholarship cycle, which begins in Spring 2026. The review process will prioritize applicants who demonstrate the most financial need as verified by information from a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).
To make a donation to the Banks Family Student Stability Fund, please visit carle.org/give-change or contact Renae Cory at Renae.Cory@carle.com or (217) 383-3021.
“This is a wonderful way for us to share our gratitude and support those on an academic journey to a stable and rewarding career in healthcare. To play even a small part in making someone’s goals more attainable is incredibly rewarding,” Dr. Banks said.
“We are really excited to see the many impactful opportunities that will unfold for students for years to come,” Bryan Banks added. “This fund continues Methodist College’s mission of leading the region in developing local clinical expertise that improves the wellbeing of individuals and families in our communities.”