PCF Scholars
PCF Scholars is an education grant program funded by the Pasadena Community Foundation to provide responsive, impactful support to students from Pasadena Unified School District as they graduate from high school and enroll in Pasadena City College (PCC). In partnership with Partnership for Success!, MPYD at Muir High School, Stars, College Access Plan (CAP), and Pasadena City College’s Pathways program, PCF Scholars combines need-based financial assistance and long-term support from counselors and mentors to help PUSD students achieve their college education goals.
Unlike many traditional scholarships, the PCF Scholars program is tailored to meet the needs of each student and open to those who may not be eligible for merit-based aid. We continue to build the program, study the impact, and support our Scholars throughout their time at PCC. Success is defined not only by timely graduation or transfer, but also by persistence, progression, and motivation to set and meet goals.
In fall of 2023, 12 new scholars have been selected for the program, bringing the total number of students supported since the program’s inception to 49. During the 2023-24 school year, the program will support 37 students.
Read our web post about three 2023 PCF Scholars graduates and their academic journey with the program.
Work Less, Study More
The financial assistance and comprehensive counseling provided by the PCF Scholars program is designed to help students complete their studies. Unlike many traditional scholarships, the PCF Scholars program is tailored to meet the needs of each student and open to those who may not be eligible for merit-based aid.
We want to reduce the number of hours students need to work at outside jobs, offset unexpected financial burdens, and cover the costs of books, computers, fees, and other expenses associated with earning college credit, leaving Scholars with the time and capacity to focus on their school work. The Scholars will work with our partner agencies and PCC Pathways to set and meet personal education goals, complete a transfer to a four-year college, or graduate with an Associate’s degree.
Watch video to see the PCF Scholars Program in action.