Sierra College Foundation raises $400,000 for scholarships

Matching program offered by the Bernard Osher Foundation

Rocklin, Calif.- The Sierra College Foundation announced today it has raised more than $400,000 as part of a special fund-raising effort for scholarships for Sierra College students – money that will endow 30 $1,000 scholarships per year in perpetuity. Thanks to a special matching program offered by the Bernard Osher Foundation, every $1 donated through June 30 is matched with 50 cents by the Osher Foundation. 

“This is a tremendous opportunity to help Sierra College students,” said Sonbol Aliabadi, Executive Director of the Foundation. “Any group or individual can contribute any amount they wish and have their donation matched.”

The $400,000 raised to date has resulted in $200,000 in matching funds, Aliabadi said, bringing the total raised to $600,000.
“There has been a tremendous response,” she said. “With graduations happening now, scholarships are top of mind for many people. This program is a great way to support Sierra College students and create a special recognition for an individual or organization with a named scholarship.”

In these difficult economic times, demand for scholarships is at an all-time high. The College’s scholarship resources are struggling to keep pace with the students’ growing needs.

Individuals, businesses and service organizations can establish an eternal “Named” scholarship for as little as $13,334. Donors will be able to name their scholarship, set the criteria, and select their scholarship’s winners. The Osher match will bring the funding to $20,000. With a guaranteed 5% interest, the endowed $20,000 scholarship ensures continually awarding one $1,000 scholarship every year.

Anyone who would like to donate but is not interested in establishing a “Named” scholarship can contribute any amount to the Climb Higher campaign. All donations will be matched by 50% and are tax deductible. 100 percent of every dollar donated goes directly to funding scholarships for Sierra College students.

Donations so far have come from individuals, civic groups and businesses, Aliabadi said, as well as supporters of this year’s Taste of Excellence event held in April.