2023 Recipients

Emily Goldberg

"I’m forever grateful for the abundance of opportunities the James Conklin Memorial Scholarship provides. Being in a comedic environment with students and instructors to learn from was really a gift come true. I had never been to Chicago before this and it only solidified that I’m going to pursue comedy. Taking classes daily and exploring the city on the weekend is something I cherish. Chicago truly is a wonderful and creative place. Shelby was incredibly helpful in making me feel at home. The continuous support I received from the people around me as well as the instructors has bolstered my confidence in my comedic voice. I am truly grateful for the opportunity and experiences the JCMS board provided. Honoring James has been such a privilege. Thank you to Shelby and the whole scholarship board for delivering such an incredible opportunity, truly unforgettable."​

2020 Relief Initiatives

2020 iO Staff Support

JCMS ran a Go Fund Me to support staff members who have been laid off after iO's closing. Any refused relief money will be going back into the community via a donation on behalf of the iO staff to a Chicago theater focused on diversity and inclusion. 

2020 COVID-19 Relief

We awarded 12 Individuals with $500 after Chicago released their stay-at-home order and comedians were put out of work. 

2019 Recipients

Chinweolu Greer

"The summer of 2019 will be a time in my life I will never forget. The James Conklin Memorial Scholarship played a huge role in me gaining confidence as an Improver. I discovered my comedic voice. I am beyond grateful for the connections made during the iO Summer Intensive, the teachers were incredibly supportive of all the students in the program. I will always be grateful to have discovered, played and laughed with some of the funniest people I have met; it was truly incredible to be in a place with like-minded comedians that helped open my eyes to the wonderful world of Improv. Now I am determined and focused more than ever to maintain that artistic energy that started in Chicago."

Hadley Singer

"I don't know if I will ever be able to properly describe how thankful I am for the countless opportunities the James Conklin Memorial Scholarship provided. Bringing me to Chicago, taking the intensive, and having the privilege to honor James, was simply the greatest thing that has ever happened to me. I learned what it means to belong to something greater than myself, how to enjoy the smallest gifts that everyone has to give, and how to support the artists around you. I want to thank Shelby Plummer, Parker Callahan, James' parents, the rest of the JCMS board, and Jessica Rogers for everything they had to give."

2018 Recipients

Meredith Brandt

"Being a part of the iO Summer Intensive was the most eye-opening and rewarding experience. Beyond having learned a ton, the program allowed me to join a community that made me feel more supported and welcomed than I could have imagined. Getting to spend time and perform with Shelby and the scholarship board was the highlight of my time in Chicago, and playing even a small part in honoring James has been an incredible privilege. I had one of the most memorable and meaningful summers, entirely thanks to the James Conklin Memorial Scholarship."

Jovon Outlaw

"Receiving the JCMS has changed my life in such a way that words can’t explain. In doing the IO Summer Intensive I not only grew as a performer but as a person. Through the experience, I grew towards my artistic voice and teaching met how to get there; by being vulnerable. In meeting James Conklin’s parents, it took on such a deeper meaning. The love they shared is so special. Shelby and the whole scholarship board really care for the recipients. And IO draws you in such a way that you’d never want to leave. It is an honor to share is such a special person’s life that left such an impact on his friends and family’s life. I truly hope to return to the city to continue my journey."

2017 Recipient

Mina Bond

"I am so grateful for the James Conklin Memorial Scholarship, the iO Summer Intensive, and all the wonderful and passionate comedians I met during my summer in Chicago. I fell in love with the city and my love for comedy was validated. Shelby, Rachel, and the scholarship board were all invested in my success and continue to check up on me. I found a home in the Chicago comedy community and met comedians from all around the world. So much love and thanks for the JCMS team."