Madison, Wis. (September 16, 2020) – Edgewood College is honored to announce that CUNA Mutual Group Foundation has awarded $206,000 to support the Community Scholars Program.
“The CUNA Mutual Group Foundation is committed to helping eliminate the barriers to financial access and stability, and student debt is one of those barriers, especially for our Black, Latina(o), and Indigenous communities,” said Alex Shade, Director of Corporate Social Responsibility at CUNA Mutual Group. “If we can help tackle the burden that student debt places on individuals through our investment in the Edgewood College Community Scholars Program, then we can start building a bridge to equity that enables more people in more ways to achieve a brighter financial future.”
Launched in 2007, the Community Scholars program supports up to four incoming freshmen from Dane County each fall with a full-tuition award, textbooks, and a laptop. Scholars participate in leadership development opportunities, attend local, regional, and national conferences, and contribute significant community service and leadership each year. Students are selected based on their academic potential, financial need, and commitment to serving Greater Madison.
“Edgewood College created this program to engage underserved students in Dane County,” Andrew P. Manion, President, said. “We are both humbled and energized by this tremendous support from CUNA Mutual Group Foundation. Their focus on education and economic security for all aligns with our mission to build a more just and compassionate world. This partnership and our shared commitment to equity and inclusion marks a clear path forward for our community, and for Edgewood College.”
Graduates of the Community Scholars Program include educators, healthcare professionals, public service professionals, and more. Most graduates remain in Dane County to begin their professional lives.
