Quad Cities, IL/IA (November 3, 2025) — Visit Quad Cities, the official destination marketing organization (DMO) for the Quad Cities region, is announcing that applications are now open for the 2026 Patty Viverito Emerging Leader Scholarship.

Named in honor of Patty Viverito, former Senior Associate Commissioner of the Missouri Valley Conference and Commissioner of the Missouri Valley Football Conference, the scholarship serves as a tribute to her lasting impact on women’s athletics and her legacy of leadership.

Established in 2022, the annual Patty Viverito Emerging Leader Scholarship recognizes two female high school student-athletes from Illinois or Iowa who demonstrate academic excellence, leadership, and community engagement. A $1,000 scholarship is awarded to each recipient 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, Vice President, Business Growth & Director, Sports QC, Visit Quad Cities. “This scholarship honors that legacy by empowering young women who are making their own mark on the future of sports.”

Eligibility and Application Details
This opportunity is open to female high school seniors who are student-athletes with a minimum GPA of 3.0. Applicants should demonstrate leadership, community involvement, and commitment to athletics, as well as share a dedication to Viverito's values.
In addition to the application form, candidates are required to submit:

• A 500-word essay answering: “Who do you feel is a good leader, and why?”
• Two letters of recommendation: one from a school administrator and one from a non-family member

Applications are due by February 15, 2026, and recipients will be recognized in March 2026.
Final selections will be made by a committee of Quad Cities female community leaders.
For more information and to apply, visit https://sportsquadcities.com/get-involved/scholarship-award.