Support first-generation college success at SCU!

First-generation college students deserve an equitable college experience.  The LEAD Scholars Program builds relationships based on trust and respect by fostering a safe and welcoming space for our students.  Through academic courses, advising, social events, vocational exploration, networking, community outreach, funding, leadership opportunities, and alumni engagement, the LEAD Scholars Program supports student success in college and beyond. For more info about LEAD, please visit: https://www.scu.edu/lead.

Our students:

• Have high financial need. 72% of them are low-income students.

• Are high achievers. 83% graduate in four years, higher than the general SCU population.

• Are diverse. 62% are Latinx, 21% Asian, 6% African American, 5% White, and 3% Multiracial.

Your donation will make an impact by funding:

• Scholarships to provide students with funding for tuition, room and board, and other school expenses. 

• Microgrants to help students with emergency and living expenses, including replacing broken computers, rent and food.

• Fellowships to fund student participation in high-impact experiences like study abroad, undergraduate research and unpaid internships.

LEAD Scholars share how LEAD funding has impacted them:

“With the help of the LEAD Scholars Program and the generous scholarship they granted me, I am able to continue my education at Santa Clara knowing that I have the support of such an empowering program." 

-Elizabeth, class of 2022, received LEAD Scholarship funding to help with education-related expenses

“In Rome, we were challenged with a new way of life. We connected with a beautiful new language, discovered powerful art in museums and churches, and took unique classes that introduced us to Italian history and culture. As first-generation college students, we had the opportunity to develop ourselves through this experience, and we were only able to do so through the generous funding of a LEAD Fellowship." 

-Ryan and Martimeano, class of 2021, received funding to study abroad in Rome, Italy