07/09/2026
With heavy hearts, we are deeply saddened by the passing of Prince Washington - SPIA alumnus and SOE student.
During his senior year of high school, Prince’s resilience and academic effort in the face of housing insecurity led the Chicago Coalition to End Homelessness (CCH) to name him a 2017 scholarship recipient. He went on to study political science at the University of Illinois Springfield, where he became a dedicated Model Illinois Government delegate and a contributor to the UIS Observer. When asked what motivated him, Prince shared “A sense of accomplishment […], especially when it will further a personal goal of mine or a bigger mission,” words that would come to define his life.
After earning his bachelor’s degree in 2023, Prince continued giving back by joining the CCH scholarship selection committee to support students facing challenges similar to his own. He was a passionate advocate for college students experiencing homelessness, bravely sharing his story with Illinois lawmakers to highlight the urgent need for systemic support. His testimony helped drive the passage of the Higher Education Housing and Opportunities Act (SB 190), a law that transformed how colleges support students without stable housing. His advocacy contributed to broader progress as well, including Illinois adding $2 million to its education budget for FY27. This funding will help schools better identify and support unhoused students, something that has not been funded in over 15 years.
Prince’s commitment to service did not stop there. Pursuing a master’s in educational leadership, he worked to uplift others through tutoring and teaching, never losing sight of his goal to make a meaningful difference. His determination, compassion, and unwavering belief in a better future left a lasting impact on all who knew him. Prince’s legacy is one of strength, advocacy, and hope, and he will not be forgotten. We keep his family and loved ones in our thoughts during this difficult time.
