At the Illinois Conservatory for the Arts (ICA), we believe that every young person deserves access to high-quality arts education—regardless of income, background, or zip code. Yet too many students in our region still face barriers that prevent them from exploring their creative potential.
This past winter, thanks to the generous support of the Molina Healthcare Charitable Foundation, we were able to break down some of those barriers in a powerful way.
Through MolinaCares’ investment, 14 students received full-tuition scholarships to attend our IMPACT: Musical Theatre program—a five-day, pre-professional training experience featuring Broadway-level instruction in acting, singing, and dance. These scholarships made it possible for students from across the Western Suburbs, Chicago, and Northwest Indiana to train alongside their peers, many for the first time in a setting built to support their growth.
Originally intended to support five students, the scholarship fund allowed us to serve nearly three times as many young artists—ensuring that half of our participants attended the program at no cost.
Student Voices
The impact was immediate, personal, and lasting.
“Being at IMPACT changed my perspective on what I can achieve. Coming from a community with limited arts resources, I never imagined I’d have the chance to work with Broadway professionals.”
— Leon, Scholarship Recipient
“This program gave me confidence in my abilities and showed me that my dreams are possible. It felt incredible to be part of something so inspiring.”
— Ava, Scholarship Recipient
Why Access Matters
Their stories reflect what decades of research continues to show: that arts education builds confidence, resilience, academic engagement, and a lifelong love of learning.
A study by the University of Chicago Consortium on School Research found that participation in the arts supports growth in self-management, emotional regulation, and identity development—critical foundations for student success.
National research from the Brookings Institution links consistent arts involvement to better school attendance, improved grades, and higher aspirations for postsecondary education.
Yet despite these proven benefits, arts education remains out of reach for many. Nearly 30% of Illinois school districts report offering no after-school arts programs at all, and participation in high school arts courses is below 25% statewide. The need is clear—and urgent.
The Role of MolinaCares
Thanks to MolinaCares, 14 young artists received more than just instruction—they were welcomed into a community that believes in their creativity, their potential, and their right to pursue excellence.
They worked with top industry professionals, participated in mock auditions, attended a professional production in downtown Chicago, and performed in a culminating showcase for friends, family, and arts professionals.
These experiences do more than teach performance—they help shape futures.
The Illinois Conservatory for the Arts is proud to partner with the Molina Healthcare Charitable Foundation in the shared belief that access to the arts is not a privilege—it’s a right. Together, we are opening doors for the next generation of artists, thinkers, and leaders.
We thank MolinaCares for helping make that possible.
