Vanguard University Launches Headwind Scholars Program

Categories: College University AthleticsCollege/University NewsEducation

The Headwind Scholars Program provides essential support for former foster youth at Vanguard University.

News Summary

Vanguard University has received a $900,000 grant from the In-N-Out Burger Foundation to establish the Headwind Scholars program, which aims to support former foster youth. This initiative will provide vital financial aid, academic resources, and various services to help these individuals transition into higher education. The program is set to be directed by an experienced alumnus, focusing on fostering academic success for vulnerable youth in the community.

Costa Mesa

Vanguard University has received a significant financial boost in the form of a $900,000 grant from the In-N-Out Burger Foundation. This funding will be allocated to the establishment of the Headwind Scholars program, dedicated to providing essential support for former foster youth.

The Headwind Scholars program is specifically designed to assist graduates of the foster care system by offering a range of resources. Eligible students will benefit from financial aid, academic resources, and various support services aimed at facilitating their transition into higher education. This initiative marks a crucial step in addressing the challenges often faced by young adults who have aged out of the foster care system.

According to the leadership at Vanguard University, the grant will have a lasting impact on the lives of many vulnerable individuals. The university’s president highlighted the hopeful outcomes expected from this new program, emphasizing the importance of such initiatives in the broader educational landscape.

The In-N-Out Burger Foundation expressed its commitment to supporting children who have endured abuse and neglect by funding programs like Headwind Scholars. This philosophy aligns with the foundation’s mission to improve the well-being of vulnerable youth and foster their educational pursuits.

In addition to the grant announcement, it has been revealed that Mark Orphan has been appointed as the director of the Headwind Scholars program. An alumnus of Vanguard, Orphan brings a wealth of experience from his roles as a pastor and co-founder of Finally Home, a nonprofit organization dedicated to advocating for foster youth and promoting adoption. His background is expected to provide valuable insight into the needs of the program’s target population.

Vanguard University, established in 1920, is a private Christian institution located in Costa Mesa with an enrollment of approximately 2,200 students. The university boasts a dedicated faculty comprising nearly 100 full-time members and offers over 30 undergraduate and six graduate programs. With a commitment to fostering academic excellence, Vanguard University integrates its Christian values into its educational framework.

The establishment of the Headwind Scholars program illustrates a growing trend of collaboration between educational institutions and nonprofit organizations. Such partnerships aim to address the specific needs of underrepresented and vulnerable populations within the community. The targeted support for former foster youth is particularly essential, as these individuals often face numerous challenges in accessing education and transitioning into adulthood.

Looking ahead, the Headwind Scholars program is poised to make a meaningful difference in the lives of its participants. By providing financial and academic support in a nurturing environment, Vanguard University aims to empower former foster youth as they embark on their academic journeys. This comprehensive approach not only aligns with the university’s values but also fulfills a critical need within the community.

The funding and launch of the Headwind Scholars program are significant steps towards enhancing support systems for former foster youth, ensuring they have the resources and guidance necessary to thrive in their post-secondary education and beyond.