COMMUNITY SCHOLARSHIPS FOR DIVERSITY:
SUPPORTING EXCELLENCE IN EDUCATION
Join us in supporting perhaps the most important scholarship fund in the College of Humanities – The Community Scholarship for Diversity Fund. This critical fund supports “first generation students” – those that are the first in their families to receive a Bachelor’s Degree. The fund is designed to
provide these students with the full cost of in-state tuition and fees, and is supported entirely by gifts from individuals, local corporations and foundations.
For first-generation college students, most who bring a rich and needed diversity to the University of Utah campus, this scholarship provides the necessary economic support to complete their college degree. It not only assists the individual student but also represents economic opportunity for the student’s family and community. In the past five years, this unique fund has demonstrated unprecedented success – 96% of funded students have graduated or are on track to graduate from the University of Utah. And more than half have gone on to post-graduate studies.
Why the Community Scholarships for Diversity Fund is so critical to Excellence in Higher Education:
Diversity promotes personal growth and a healthy society. An education in a rich and diverse environment challenges stereotyped preconceptions. It encourages critical thinking and helps students learn to communicate effectively with people of varied backgrounds and cultures.
Diversity strengthens communities and workplaces. Education within a diverse setting prepares students to become good citizens in an increasingly complex and pluralistic society. It fosters mutual respect and teamwork; and it helps to build communities who look to the character and quality of their members’ contributions.
Diversity enhances our economic competitiveness. In order for the United States to sustain our nation’s prosperity in the 21st century, we must make effective use of the talents and abilities of all of our citizens.
During the past decade, Utah has seen an increase in the racial and ethnic diversity of our citizens. However, the student population of University of Utah does not reflect this growth. Strides have been made to increase the numbers of students who are likely to be the first in their families to attend college, however we can do better. The community and economic vitality of the State of Utah depends on us to find ways to educate all of Utah’s citizens, for the betterment of everyone who lives in Utah.
WE ARE MAKING A DIFFERENCE
We invite you to be part of this amazing opportunity. For more information about the Community Scholarship for Diversity Fund, contact us directly at 801.581.6214.
