Rainier Scholars
This month, we are proud to shine a spotlight on Rainier Scholars, a beacon of educational empowerment that has been making a profound impact on the lives of promising students and empowering diverse leaders and change makers since its inception in 2000.
Rainier Scholars cultivates the academic and leadership potential of underrepresented students of color through rigorous, transformative opportunities that increase college graduation rates and empower new generations of leaders.
At the heart of Rainier Scholars is a philosophy grounded in the belief that every student, regardless of their background, deserves access to a transformative education. Their comprehensive program includes academic enrichment, mental health, and leadership and career development. Annually, they support 630 scholars and their families. They strive to systematically remove barriers to a college education and ensure that students of color are afforded the same opportunities and access as their classmates. 89% of eligible Rainier Scholars are graduating from 4-year colleges and universities and 97% of 2023 college graduates are in full-time jobs or enrolled in graduate school.
The program's key components include:
Early Intervention: Identifying talented students from underserved communities early on, Rainier Scholars provides academic and social support to prepare them for the challenges of rigorous academic environments starting in 5th grade and continuing through college graduation.
Academic Enrichment: Scholars engage in a dynamic and challenging curriculum, supplemented by mentorship and tutoring, to build a strong academic foundation and develop essential skills for success.
Summer Programs: Immersive summer sessions offer scholars the opportunity to explore new subjects, engage in hands-on learning, and develop a passion for lifelong learning.
College Readiness: The program places a strong emphasis on preparing students for the transition to higher education, offering guidance on college selection, application processes, and financial aid.
Ongoing Support: Rainier Scholars continues to support its graduates throughout their college journey, ensuring they have the resources and mentorship needed to thrive academically and personally.
Rainier Scholars stands as a testament to the transformative power of education and the impact it can have on individuals and families. We’re proud to partner with them and celebrate their commitment to creating a more equitable and brighter future for the next generation.
To learn more about Rainier Scholars, please visit https://www.rainierscholars.org/.
Foundation Pillar: Education
Funded: January 2024