Our Story

When you walk into a scholastic bowl tournament site, you see teams and coaches together, interacting with those from different schools, making new friends or renewing friendships. You see a high-energy environment where Brothers come out in support of students, where this one program unites all corners of Illinois. It is an event that cultivates academics, friendly competition, and unity.

What began in 1983 as a small project in northern Illinois has grown to become one of the largest programs supported by our Grand Lodge of Illinois. The Illinois Masonic Academic Bowl is one of the largest of its kind in our state and one of the best in the nation. With over 330 schools registered to compete from all over Illinois, this high-level academic competition has united thousands of our youth in a pursuit of intellectual excellence.  

Beyond the involvement of coaches, students and schools, the success of the academic bowl has been largely due to the cooperation between Masonic jurisdictions to do good. Our Universal values, through our joint efforts, have helped students and united Masons from all across the state. More than 250 lodges have given funds to support and sponsor schools. The involvement of these lodges and Brothers have impacted many students’ lives, which is why every lodge in Illinois is encouraged to sponsor a high school and attend these events in support.

It is incredible to see how a project started decades ago has grown to not only impact the lives of students by recognizing and uplifting academic excellence, but also to promote unity among Brothers all over the state and those from different states. This high school tournament has demonstrated that Masons, when working together, have the capacity to strengthen Masonry. Through a united pursuit of excellence, our Masonic values have united the Brothers of Illinois and beyond and have enriched the lives of countless teenagers. Together, the impact we can make is limitless. 

If you have questions or comments about the Illinois Masonic Academic Bowl,
please contact Herman Albers, Chairman, here or by telephone at 618-920-0151.

Illinois Masonic Academic Bowl
“Providing Positive Recognition for Academic Excellence”