What is the opportunity gap?

The opportunity gap is a disparity in access to quality schools and resources needed for all students to be academically successful. Closing the opportunity gap is the only way we will make progress toward closing academic achievement gaps. Download "Harvard Kennedy School - Closing the Opportunity Gap" report.

How does this impact the prospective donor?

Education contributes to the success of our economy. When it comes to the economy, we’re all in it together. It’s in our nation’s best interest for everyone to have economic security and the opportunity to move forward. But despite the real progress our country has made, there is still a racial gap in economic security and mobility that must be addressed if we’re to move our economy forward.

Where is the most significant need?

According to The Campaign for College Opportunity (CCO): The State of Higher Education in California 2015, “the college attendance rate for Black high school graduates (particularly at four-year universities) over the past ten years peaked at 52% in 2007 and has since declined.

The number of Black students enrolling in college was steadily increasing up until the Great Recession when deep funding cuts to public higher education budgets were enacted by the state. Unfortunately, these cuts seem to have had a disproportionate negative impact on Black students. College enrollment rates for these students declined sharply after 2007, especially in the California State University (CSU) system for—both freshmen and transfer enrollment. 

Why should I help?

The Campaign for College Opportunity: The State of Higher Education in California 2015:

Significant research has already established that bachelor’s degree holders are more likely to be employed, less likely to rely on social services, less likely to be incarcerated, and more likely to have children who will also earn bachelor’s degrees. Education has the potential to lift people out of poverty and improve their lives—and also the lives of future generations.

How can I help?

Many statewide initiatives are being created to address the challenges that lead to the opportunity gap. The Campaign for College Opportunity proposes eight recommendations for policymakers, college leaders, students, and families. Recommendation no. 8 is to strengthen financial support options. A key element to our Close the Gap initiative is to form a network of community partnerships with campus communities and California residents.

Click here and make your donation to the CAASSIE Scholarship Fund today. Your contribution to growing the fund will help to ensure that students can continue to receive support, even when government budgets are tight or economic downturns reduce annual voluntary contributions.

Who is the Fund Administrator?

The College Foundation staff manages the day-to-day administrative activities, including receiving, formally acknowledging and holding of all funds. Funds are tax-deductible under the 501(c)(3) organizational status of the Foundation.

Can you tell me more about the CAASSIE Scholarship Fund?

CAASSIE funds are invested in the Foundation’s long-term pooled fund and current non-investment fund. The long-term fund strategy is one of moderate risk. 

Scholarship Categories Donors Can Establish

Diamond Scholarships (Memorial Category)

Donors can make a contribution of $10,000 and can establish a memorial scholarship in the name of a loved one. These are our Diamond Scholarships. Learn more.

Organization Scholarships

Organizations can choose to establish an annual scholarship each year in the name of their organization. You may also designate the scholarship for a particular major, The minimum contribution each year is $500.

CASSIE Close The GAP General Scholarship

If students do not apply based on the major you designate the scholarship will be awarded under our general Close The Gap scholarship category.

Existing Scholarship Categories for Southwestern College Chapter of CAASSIE

Diamonds

Nursing

The Lavern Cumby Memorial Scholarship is offered to students who aspire to a career in nursing.

Elementary Education & STEM

The Lurie Center Memorial Scholarship is offered to students who aspire to a career in elementary education.

Organizational

Student Excellence Scholarship

The SWC Black Alliance Student Excellence Scholarship is offered to all majors who demonstrate excellence in pursuit of a four-year degree.

Close the Gap Scholarship

The CAASSIE Close the Gap Scholarship is offered to all majors who demonstrate excellence in pursuit of a four-year degree.

Minimum Eligibility for all Scholarships

To be considered for any CAASSIE scholarship, a student must meet these minimum requirements:

  • Be a full-time student (minimum 12 units).

  • Have a cumulative GPA 3.0.

Selection Criteria

The CAASSIE Scholarship selection committee (CSSC) will evaluate each student based on:

Clarity of goals

For more information

If you would like to speak with someone about setting up a named scholarship or a contribution over the phone, please call the Southwestern College Office of Development and Foundation at (619) 421-6700 ext. 5843.

Give Today

Visit our secure online giving form to make a difference in the lives of our students by supporting scholarships today.

How much is the scholarship award?

Award Amount: $500

How do students apply for scholarships?

Apply through the SWC Financial Aid office. 

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