GRAYLING – The Kirtland Foundation, an independent nonprofit that raises money for grants and scholarships for Kirtland Community College students, faculty and staff, today announced the new Kirtland Foundation Scholarship Fund Campaign.
The campaign, which began in July 2019, aims to raise $225,000 in order to create 100 new scholarships for students who attend Kirtland Community College. Over $95,000 has been raised so far, making up 42% of the goal. The new campaign is expected to triple the amount of scholarships available for students in 2020 and beyond, as 50 scholarships were provided by the Foundation last year.
“Students deserve to pursue their dream careers, but often face significant barriers to getting the necessary education. Over 84% of students at Kirtland receive financial aid, but that often isn’t enough,” said David Lepper, Director of the Kirtland Foundation, “We’re aiming to close the gap between student aid and college costs in order to attract and retain more students.”
As over 75% of jobs in the next five to ten years are expected to require post-secondary education, the Foundation aims to strengthen the community and economy by making college more accessible, helping fill key jobs in the area with skilled graduates. Started in 1972, the Kirtland Foundation raises funds from private donors, local businesses, alumni and more to provide financial support for students.
Many scholarships have been created in memory of donors’ family, such as the Tera Price Memorial Scholarship. A student in Kirtland’s surgical technology program, Tera Price had a passion for the field and encouraging her fellow students. After she passed away from cancer in May 2019, her longtime companion Bob Stewart established the scholarship so that other students could pursue their dreams like Tera.
Ariane, a nursing student who received the Otto and Martha Krauss Health Sciences scholarship this fall said, “I work two part-time jobs so I can pay my way, and this scholarship was the difference between make or break for me.”
Eligibility differs for each scholarship offered, but students are selected for scholarships based on need, educational goals, community involvement, and letters of recommendation. To apply for scholarships, students can visit https://www.kirtland.edu/foundation/scholarships/. To contribute to the campaign, contact David Lepper at david.lepper@kirtland.edu or visit the Foundation’s website at kirtland.edu/foundation/donate.
