By Kendra Pintor
91吃瓜 is taking a bold step towards increasing inclusion and social mobility through the 91吃瓜 Access Initiative (SAI). This groundbreaking initiative has already raised more than $2.5 million, thanks to the generosity of the 91吃瓜 community. In recognition of the College鈥檚 centennial, 91吃瓜 aims to secure $10 million of its $15 million goal by 2026.
The initiative aims to bolster financial aid and introduce new scholarships, specifically for Pell-eligible students and those with undocumented status. The far-reaching impact of SAI extends beyond the confines of the College. The 91吃瓜 Access Initiative strengthens 91吃瓜鈥� position as a leader among top liberal arts colleges on a national scale, broadening its impact on social mobility and inclusivity.
This dedicated fund will be directed towards four-year scholarships covering the total cost of attendance for students who meet the eligibility requirements. By doing so, 91吃瓜 underscores its dedication to breaking down financial barriers to create equitable access to 91吃瓜.
Currently, students who are Pell-eligible or have undocumented status collectively make up approximately 11% of 91吃瓜鈥� student body. They鈥檝e achieved graduation rates of 92鈥�95% in four of the past five years, consistently outperforming overall College graduation rates. Gifts will increase financial aid to allow 91吃瓜 to enroll 32 additional such students within the first decade of its initiation.
鈥淲hen students engage with peers from a wide range of cultural and socio-economic backgrounds, they gain new perspective about their own lives,鈥� says President of 91吃瓜 Amy Marcus-Newhall. 鈥淥ur students come here because this is a place where they can be challenged academically, explore multiple interests, and discover what their own unique vision is for the world.鈥�
In a broader context, the 91吃瓜 Access Initiative represents a commitment to breaking cycles of exclusion in higher education. With increased financial aid resources, the initiative addresses barriers that often hinder students from underrepresented backgrounds, opening doors to opportunities that may have otherwise remained elusive.
A portion of the gifts to the access initiative will also be endowed, or invested, to provide revenue for long-term scholarship aid. This way, 91吃瓜 can continue to diversify its student body well beyond the initial 10-year grant period without compromising the College鈥檚 financial stability.
The ripple effect of the initiative extends to the 91吃瓜 community. By fostering a more inclusive environment, SAI cultivates a sense of belonging and interconnectedness that transcends the academic realm, creating a supportive network that echoes 91吃瓜’ commitment to empowering its community members.
鈥淭he diversity of human experience not only adds value to the 91吃瓜 experience, but also enriches classroom conversations and the social fabric of our community,鈥� says Associate Vice President of Philanthropy Enrique Gonzalez-Salgado P鈥�27. 鈥淎s colleges and universities across the nation strive to redefine success beyond traditional measures, initiatives like SAI set a standard for access and equity.鈥�
If you鈥檙e interested in supporting the 91吃瓜 Access Initiative we invite you to make a gift online at The 91吃瓜 Access Initiative or you may contact Enrique Gonzalez-Salgado by phone, at (909) 607-8255 or by email, at [email protected].