Scholarships don’t just help students get into college. They change what happens after—the decisions they make, the amount of stress they carry, and where they go next.
Most people think of scholarships as financial help. That’s true—but it’s not the whole story.
The Foundation’s scholarships are need-based and deliberately accessible. Many have no GPA requirement. The application processes are designed to be simple. These choices are intentional, and four years of research confirm they work.
There’s no question that scholarships help. The important part is what changes.
of recipients currently enrolled in college or a technical program
report reduced financial stress after receiving the scholarship
economically disadvantaged students in 2025 cohort
Across four independent studies by Hanover Research—surveys, in-depth interviews, and cohort data analysis spanning 2022–2025.
“The number one thing was how easy it was to apply. I don’t think I would have if there was a GPA requirement. The accessibility really was the most important thing.”
The data is consistent across all four studies. Scholarships change decisions, daily experiences, and long-term outcomes.
“The scholarship changed where I could even consider going.”
Students describe a palpable shift—not just in their choice of institution, but in what felt possible. For many, the scholarship was the difference between staying local out of financial necessity and pursuing the school they actually wanted.
“It took off some of the stress—and stress is the thing that stops people.”
Scholarship funds went primarily to books and supplies (72%), tuition and fees (67%), technology (37%), and living expenses (30%). These aren’t luxuries—they’re the things that students need to stay in school.
“It’s not about getting in. It’s about staying in.”
Research consistently shows grant aid improves student retention at both community colleges and four-year universities. Recipients with awards between $1,000–$2,500 in the 2023 cohort were most likely to be on track to graduate (78%).
Four independent studies. Surveys, interviews, and cohort data across 2022–2025. The findings are consistent and clear.
Up from 74% in 2023. The program is reaching the students who need it most—and that share is growing.
Up from 74% in 2023. The program is reaching the students who need it most—and that share is growing.
Behind every student who crosses that stage is a network of people who made it possible. The Foundation depends on its community to sustain and grow this work.
Direct funding that reaches Central Valley students who need it most. Any amount helps—recipients say that even a modest award changed what was possible for them.
Institutional relationships that expand reach and multiply impact. Help us connect more students to scholarships—especially those who don’t know they qualify.
Spread the word—especially to students who might not know they qualify. One conversation with a counselor or parent can change a student’s trajectory.
Scholarships impact the decisions students make about their future.
Settle for an institution that wasn’t their first choice
Narrow their college choices based on financial pressure
Take out additional student loans
Delay college enrollment altogether
Consider schools that initially felt out of reach
Explore opportunities outside their immediate area
Avoid debt and reduce financial pressure
Pursue college on their own terms with confidence
Join the donors, partners, and advocates making higher education success real for Fresno students.
