In a significant move to support LGBTQ+ students pursuing higher education, the National Rainbow College Fund, powered by San Diego Foundation (SDF), has announced the formation of its Advisory Council. This development marks a crucial step in addressing the unique challenges faced by LGBTQ+ students in their academic journey.
The newly formed Advisory Council brings together a diverse group of prominent community members, each contributing their expertise and passion to guide this groundbreaking scholarship initiative. The National Rainbow College Fund is the first of its kind, designed exclusively to support LGBTQ+ students in their pursuit of higher education, regardless of the public nature of their sexual identity.
Mark Stuart, SDF President and CEO, emphasized the importance of this initiative, stating, ‘Now, more than ever, LGBTQ+ students face unique challenges such as social acceptance, mental health issues and family rejection that can hinder their ability to afford college and impact their long-term economic stability and mobility.’ Stuart expressed his vision for the future, aiming to ensure that every LGBTQ+ person in the U.S. has the means to realize their educational dreams, starting with California in 2025.
The Advisory Council comprises distinguished individuals from various sectors. Members include Jarrett Barrios, American Red Cross Senior Vice President for International Services and Services to Armed Forces; Amanda Montgomery, Sycamore Tree Capital Partners Managing Director; Dr. Becky Petitt, University of California at San Diego Vice Chancellor for Equity, Diversity and Inclusion; Joyce Rowland, former Sempra Energy Chief Human Resources Officer; and Allen Young, Cox Communications Government Affairs Manager.
These council members will play a crucial role in supporting the National Rainbow College Fund through advocacy, community relations, guidance, strategy, and fundraising efforts. Additionally, they will be involved in evaluating scholarship applications alongside a team of volunteers.
Each council member brings a wealth of experience and a unique perspective to the table. Jarrett Barrios, for instance, has a distinguished career in public service and LGBTQ+ advocacy, having been the first openly gay person of color elected to a state legislature in the United States. Amanda Montgomery brings her expertise in institutional investor relations and her experience as a U.S. Navy veteran. Dr. Becky Petitt contributes over 25 years of experience in equity, diversity, and inclusion work in higher education.
Joyce Rowland’s extensive experience in human resources and her involvement with LGBTQ+ organizations add valuable insights to the council. Allen Young, with his background in government affairs and his personal connection to the LGBTQ+ and Asian American/Pacific Islander communities, brings a unique intersectional perspective to the initiative.
The National Rainbow College Fund, powered by the San Diego Foundation, one of the largest community foundations in the U.S., will award $2,500 to each selected student. The application period for the scholarship is set for January 15, 2025 – March 5, 2025, with a strong emphasis on maintaining students’ privacy throughout the application process.
This initiative is not just about providing financial support; it’s about addressing the systemic challenges that LGBTQ+ students face in pursuing higher education. By providing targeted support, the National Rainbow College Fund aims to improve long-term economic stability and mobility for LGBTQ+ individuals, potentially impacting their entire life trajectory.
The formation of this Advisory Council and the launch of the National Rainbow College Fund represent a significant step forward in promoting equity and inclusivity in higher education. As this initiative grows, it has the potential to become a national model for supporting LGBTQ+ students, setting a precedent that could inspire similar programs across the country.
This news story relied on a press release distributed by News Direct. Blockchain Registration, Verification & Enhancement provided by NewsRamp™. The source URL for this press release is National Rainbow College Fund Forms Advisory Council to Support LGBTQ+ Students.