Through the program, the university will work with local partners to provide low-income, disadvantaged students and their families a variety of support services including mentoring, counseling, tutoring, college-preparatory courses, information about college, and financial aid options.
Partners on the U.S. Department of Education award include the Decade of Difference, Humboldt County Office of Education, Humboldt Area Foundation, the Yurok Tribe, and the Del Norte County Unified School District. The grant will be spread out over seven years, with $443,614 awarded initially, and $430,000 granted each subsequent year.
“This is a great opportunity for the university to partner with local community organizations to further strengthen our college readiness efforts for disadvantaged students,” said Vikash Lakhani, HSU’s Associate Vice President for Enrollment Management, which will manage the grant.
The award will fund improved educational opportunities for at-risk youth, many of whom face significant barriers that challenge their ability to graduate from high school and enroll in post-secondary education.
Nearly a quarter of students to served by HSU’s program live in poverty and more than 60 percent are eligible for a reduced or free lunch. More than 30 percent test below basic in English and mathematics.
“We hope to make a difference in the lives of these children and become a catalyst that will encourage and promote systemic change in the community and beyond,” said Adrienne Colegrove-Raymond, director of HSU's Indian Tribal and Educational Personnel Program.
The grant was made possible through HSU's Office of Sponsored Programs.