Visit Quad Cities announced this week that applications are now open for the 2026 Patty Viverito Emerging Leader Scholarship.
The scholarship was established in 2022. It honors Patty Viverito, former senior associate commissioner of the Missouri Valley Conference and commissioner of the Missouri Valley Football Conference, for her lasting impact on women’s athletics.
Two $1,000 scholarships will be awarded to female high school student-athletes from Illinois or Iowa who demonstrate academic excellence, leadership, and community engagement. The funds will go toward their undergraduate education at an accredited university or community college.
“Leaders like Patty Viverito helped shape the foundation for women in athletics and continue to inspire the next generation,” said Joan Kranovich, Visit QC’s vice president of Business Growth and director of Sports QC. “This scholarship honors that legacy by empowering young women who are making their own mark on the future of sports.”
Eligible applicants are female high school seniors with a minimum 3.0 GPA. They must demonstrate leadership, community involvement, and commitment to athletics, aligning with Ms. Viverito’s values.
Required application materials include a 500-word essay. They will adresses the question “Who do you feel is a good leader, and why?” Also required are two letters of recommendation (one from a school administrator and a non-family member).
Applications are due by Feb. 15, 2026. Recipients will be announced in March 2026. The final selections will be made by a committee of Quad Cities female community leaders. For more information and to apply, visit here.
