The CAHME/Judy Baar Topinka Foundation Scholarship for Health Policy
Judy Baar Topinka began her career in journalism and went on to blaze a pioneering path as a public servant in Illinois. First elected to the Illinois House of Representatives in 1980, Judy later became a state senator and was elected as the first woman to serve as the state’s Treasurer. As a legislator and civic leader, Judy was an advocate for the health and welfare of the residents of Illinois. Many of her legislative achievements focus on improving healthcare quality and access. Her expertise in health policy led her to chair the Health and Welfare Committee of the Illinois Senate. She believed in public service and was tireless in her advocacy of those in need. She believed in passion, hard work, ethical leadership, and persistence. The successful applicant will share these qualities and characteristics.
New for 2026 Awards and Scholarships:
CAHME Application Portal
Eligibility
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Student in CAHME Accredited or Certified Program
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Nominations must be made by the students Program Director, or a faculty member on behalf of the University Program Director
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Online applications must be submitted by October 17, 2025.
What You Need To Apply
- Program Director Contact Information
- University Information
- Student Nominee Contact Information
Overview of Scholarship
Nominees for this award exemplify the following qualities:
- Serve the public good through impactful work in public health or distinguished volunteer efforts that benefit underserved communities.
- Lead with integrity and persistance, advocating for improved healthcare access, quality or policy.
- Drive meaningful change by applying dedication and persistence toward advancing healthcare quality, equity, and policy within their communities.
- Show persistence, passion, and hard work in advancing healthcare quality, access, or public health initiatives.
- Demonstrate a strong commitment to ethical leadership, civic engagement, and advocacy for the health and welfare of others.
- Serve the public good through meaningful contributions in public health roles or distinguished volunteer service that positively impacted individuals or communities.
Nomination Essays
The nomination consists of three essays of no more than 250 words (limit to 1,250 characters) each. One essay will be completed by the Program Director and two essays will be completed by the student. We recommend typing your essay responses in a saved document outside of the online application in case of technical difficulties. You may copy and paste from your personal document to the online application when you are ready.
- Program Director: In approximately 250 words (limit to 1,250 characters) or less, explain what makes this student an ideal candidate to receive a CAHME scholarship? (If you are nominating this student to multiple scholarships, you can copy this response.)
- Student: In approximately 250 words (limit to 1,250 characters) or less, provide specific example(s) of how you served the public good through a public health role or distinguished volunteerism. (Be specific to the award criteria.)
- Student: In approximately 250 words (limit to 1,250 characters) or less, answer the following questions. First, explain how you will use the scholarship funds. Next, explain how receiving this scholarship money would make a difference in your healthcare career.
Award Details
Award Includes
- One-time scholarship of $2,000.00
- One complimentary ticket to the CAHME Awards Ceremony on March 1, 2026, at ACHE Congress
- Travel support is provided for designated costs
- Recognition on CAHME’s website and social media
2025 Award Recipient
I envision creating a lasting impact and driving momentum in healthcare by championing policies that expand access to essential health services and promote equity. By leading with integrity and fostering community-driven initiatives, I aim to dismantle systemic barriers and empower individuals to achieve better health outcomes.
Past Award Recipients
For More Information:
Dana Alexander, MHA
Communications and Engagement Manager
301-298-1820 ext. 6
dalexander@cahme.org