Mission Statement

The Future Cougars of Color program continues a long-standing legacy of Washington State University’s commitment to provide a quality education and a valuable opportunity for future students of color to gain a first-hand perspective of what it means to be part of an empowering community and receive a world-class education.

About the Program

 

Why do Scholarships for Under-Represented Students Matter?

During the past ten years, WSU’s enrollment of students of color has nearly doubled, yet the percentage of ethnic minorities at WSU still lags behind the diverse makeup of the state and national population. Scholarships will help to close the gap by giving more individuals from under-represented groups the financial means and incentive to pursue a higher education.

According to a recent study sponsored by the Office of the Superintendent of Public Instruction, high school graduates who identify themselves as African-American, Hispanic, Native American pursue higher education at significantly lower rates than the majority of high school graduates. Scholarship availability is a key factor in helping students of color—many of whom are the first in their family to attend college—stay in school and attain their educational goals.

Partnerships

Washington State University not only fulfills its commitment to increase the number of underrepresented students of color through this program, but, more importantly, the early assistance and doors opened by this program enable unprecedented opportunities
for these students to obtain leadership experience, prepare for successful careers, and experience the satisfaction of academic success. This unique combination of experiential introductions to higher education combined with scholarship incentives would not be possible, however, without private sector assistance.

Your gift to the Future Cougars of Color Program can make a critical difference in a student’s decision to attend Washington State University. In turn, it will enrich the education of all WSU students, whose exposure to different cultures, points of view, and ideas will broaden their horizons and prepare them to succeed in their lives beyond college.

With continued support from corporate and foundation partners and individuals who believe in the value of ensuring both a diversified student body and hiring pool, we pledge to continue providing well-deserved scholarship opportunities and retention programs for the best and brightest students
in the state.

Please Consider an Investment

Every dollar invested in higher education pays tremendous dividends over time. Not only do those with college degrees have more career options and success, but investment in higher, education also yields lower poverty rates, increased civic participation, greater tax contributions, and a stronger economy. These graduates don't just have a higher quality of life, but benefit their communities as teachers, business leaders, health care professionals, and entrepreneurs.

Given this opportunity, high-achieving students of color will go on to become leaders in their communities and role models for the future.

I want to Give to the Future Cougars of Color Program