Thomas Shearer, who graduated from UIS in 1983 with a Bachelor's Degree in Environment and People, established a scholarship for students in Environmental Studies. At the time Mr. Shearer established the scholarship, Environmental Studies at UIS was a graduate program only. Mr. Shearer, however, had a great concern for students who are working toward their bachelor's, so he has specified that preference be given to an undergraduate student who is minoring in environmental studies. Preference is now given to undergraduate students majoring in Environmental Studies.