Through our Rising Scholars Program – one program on each regional campus – Â鶹ӰԺ State partners with local communities to create a support system that prepares promising youth for life after high school. If we all step up and commit to uncovering, nurturing and cultivating these young people with untapped potential, we can shine a light on this underserved population to transform their communities and the world around them.
700+
students served when fully funded
8
regional programs
55%
of regional campuses’ 2021 incoming class are first-generation students
Prioritizing Student Success
"All students are born with some level of genius, talent, ability and skills, but not always are their opportunities equal."
Lester Sanders, ’01, Â鶹ӰԺ State Stark Rising Scholars Program Coordinator
Prioritizing Student Success
"Every parent could only dream of their child having this experience and the success I have had thanks to Rising Scholars."
Jada H., Biology
Prioritizing Student Success
"Mentors are the secret sauce of this program. Mentors offer another important adult voice in the student’s life."
David Dees, Ph.D., Dean of Â鶹ӰԺ State’s Columbiana Campuses and Rising Scholars Program Founder
Prioritizing Student Success
"I always wanted to go to college but didn’t know how I could. Rising Scholars made this all possible."
Erin T.
Would you like to learn more about Rising Scholars?
Download the Case for Support for more details and learn about how philanthropy can make our students’ futures Forever Brighter.
Support Our Students
Whether your gift supports scholarships for Ensuring Access, Rewarding Achievement, Enhancing Experiences or Fostering Completion, your generosity will help make our students’ futures Forever Brighter.
