Mary Bitterman, president of The Bernard Osher Foundation, speaks about the Osher Foundation’s commitment to California Community College students.

In May 2008, the Bernard Osher Foundation made a historic gift of $25 million to the California community college system to fund scholarships throughout the state. California’s 110 community colleges were challenged to raise $50 million in matching funds by June 2011. When accomplished, the Osher Foundation will provide an additional $25 million, bringing the total for endowed scholarships to $100 million.

“The Bernard Osher Foundation’s intention in creating this $50 million endowment was to provide scholarship support to California community college students with the greatest need who have also demonstrated a commitment to their education,” said Mary Bitterman, president of the Osher Foundation. “An investment in our students is an investment in our future.”

“An investment in our students is an investment in our future.”- Mary Bitterman
President, Osher Foundation

The California Community Colleges Scholarship Endowment is a permanent fund that provides scholarships of up to $1,000 annually to students who have already completed 24 units of study, are enrolled in at least six units for the current semester, and who qualify for a Board of Governors fee waiver. Awards will be adjusted based on enrolled status. Additional criteria could be student hardships or special circumstances.

State Center Community College District has been challenged to raise over $1.1 million by June 30, 2011 towards this largest scholarship program in community college history. This is your opportunity to invest in California by supporting an educated workforce and helping create a permanent fund of scholarships for students who need the most help. You’ll also be participating in a historic fundraising campaign that is changing the way community colleges support students. Your contribution can be applied to any SCCCD campus of your choice. Students attending Fresno City College, Reedley College, and the North Centers—Madera Center, Willow International Center and the Oakhurst Center—can apply for the Bernard Osher Foundation Scholarship online through the respective scholarship websites at the beginning of each award year. For more information, and to donate online, visit the Foundation for California Community Colleges

For every dollar you contribute to the endowment, the Osher Foundation will contribute 50 cents, increasing the impact your contribution has on the lives of California Community College students. For example, a contribution of $13,500, with the Osher Foundation’s match of $6,750, will result in a $1,000 scholarship each year, forever. 
The best part is, 100 percent of your donation directly funds scholarships, ensuring the greatest possible support for students.

Photo Credit: Sharpe Photography

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