Today we are grateful and honored to announce a gift of $1 million from the Bernard Osher Foundation to endow the Osher Reentry Scholarship Program at UMKC.
Since 2007, the Osher Foundation has provided financial assistance to nontraditional students at UMKC facing personal and financial challenges. The foundation is endowing UMKC's program based on the University's demonstrated success in transitioning students from difficult life situations to a promising learning environment.
The Osher Foundation has supported UMKC over the past three years with $150,000 to fund the tuition of 18 nontraditional students who have faced personal difficulties in the pursuit of their education. These individuals have faced overwhelming challenges ranging from parental abandonment to caring for a spouse with a debilitating illness. This generous gift will fulfill the University's commitment to supporting non-traditional students for generations to come.
The Osher Foundation's selection process focuses on universities who are committed to supporting nontraditional students; institutions who commit human and financial resources to identifying and grooming promising individuals who have a strong desire to complete their education. Nontraditional students are defined as those who have experienced a five-year lapse in their education and are between the ages of 25 and 50.
"Older scholars often have family and financial obligations greater than those of traditionally aged students," said Mary G.F. Bitterman, Ph.D., president of the San Francisco-based foundation. "At the same time, they have less access to financial aid. The Bernard Osher Foundation began the expansion of its support for 'reentry' students in 2005 after being inspired by programs at Mills and Dominican Colleges in the San Francisco Bay Area, and noting the tremendous potential represented by older students seeking their first baccalaureate degree."
"UMKC is one of nine universities this year whose Osher Reentry Scholarship Program has achieved a level of prominence worthy of receiving an endowed fund from the Osher Foundation," said Leo E. Morton, UMKC Chancellor. "As part of our program, UMKC instituted a mandatory mentoring program for these students to ensure a successful transition to higher education. We commend our inspirational scholars for undertaking a difficult but ultimately rewarding journey."
Dr. Bitterman will announce the award at the College of Arts and Sciences commencement ceremonies on Friday, May 7.
UMKC offers our sincerest gratitude to the Bernard Osher Foundation for its vote of confidence in our University and in our well-deserving scholars.
