The Francis J. “Bud” Budinger Memorial Scholarship was established by the Alumni Association in honor of Francis J. Budinger, the first graduate to receive the Distinguished Alumnus Award at Sangamon State University. Named Honorary Chairman of the SSU Foundation Board in 1985, Mr. Budinger had an outstanding corporate career, retiring as president of the Franklin Life Insurance Company. He was also active in civic and community organizations in the Springfield community for many years including Sangamon State University. The scholarship is for a graduate of Lincoln Land Community College or Springfield College in Illinois with clearly defined career goals, strong character and leadership potential.