News Summary
Vanguard University has been awarded a $900,000 grant from the In-N-Out Burger Foundation to establish the Headwind Scholars program, aimed at supporting former foster youth. This initiative will provide financial aid and vital academic resources to help these students succeed in higher education. With a commitment from both the university and the foundation, the program seeks to empower vulnerable individuals as they transition into college life. The newly appointed program director, a Vanguard graduate, brings valuable experience in assisting youth aged out of foster care.
Costa Mesa, CA – Vanguard University has been awarded a significant $900,000 grant from the In-N-Out Burger Foundation to establish a scholarship program named Headwind Scholars, specifically designed for former foster youth.
This initiative will provide not only financial aid but also essential academic resources and support services to empower students who have faced challenging circumstances during their upbringing. The program is set to serve as a vital lifeline for these individuals, aiming to facilitate their transition into higher education and improve their chances of success.
Michael J. Beals, president of Vanguard University, expressed confidence that the funding will have a lasting positive impact on the lives of these students, helping them overcome barriers to education. Howard Booker, executive director of the In-N-Out Burger Foundation, emphasized the foundation’s commitment to supporting children who have experienced abuse and neglect. The scholarship program aligns with their mission to empower vulnerable youth.
Mark Orphan has been appointed as the director of the Headwind Scholars program. Orphan, a Vanguard graduate himself, also co-founded the nonprofit organization Finally Home, which focuses on assisting youth who have aged out of foster care. His background and experience in this area are expected to be invaluable in effectively implementing the program.
Founded in 1920, Vanguard University is a private Christian institution located in Costa Mesa, currently enrolling about 2,200 students. The university has nearly 100 full-time faculty members and offers 30 undergraduate programs along with six graduate degrees. In addition to the Headwind Scholars program, Vanguard has made several recent advancements, including the opening of the Freed Center for Leadership and Service, a state-of-the-art facility dedicated to athletics and kinesiology.
The Freed Center, which recently opened its doors, was developed with a generous $10 million gift and encompasses a gymnasium, human performance labs, and classrooms. These features bolster Vanguard’s commitment to providing comprehensive educational experiences.
Furthermore, the university is progressing toward full NCAA Division II membership, anticipated by 2025-26, after meeting necessary compliance benchmarks early. As a result, Vanguard’s athletic teams are competing in the PacWest Conference and are eligible for postseason events, which reinforces the university’s dedication to not only academic excellence but also athletic achievement.
In addition to the developments at Vanguard University, there are several community-focused events taking place in the area. For example, the Parisian fashion house Eres launched its first California boutique on May 2 at South Coast Plaza, marking its inaugural West Coast location. Additionally, HomeAid Orange County and Los Angeles will host a Diaper Drive on May 30 to collect essential items for families facing homelessness, supporting those with young children.
Moreover, the Boys & Girls Clubs of Central Orange Coast have initiated their first college and workforce hub at Cypress College, aiming to assist underserved teens and young adults with career and education opportunities. Other noteworthy news includes Jessica Artinger’s promotion to director of the Orange Coast College Planetarium after serving temporarily since summer 2023, and Jack Sun’s new role as director of the cardiovascular surgery program at Hoag’s Jeffrey M. Carlton Heart & Vascular Institute.
In the realm of healthcare, Doctors Asad Shah and Timothy Lee have joined the MemorialCare Heart & Vascular Institute at Saddleback Medical Center, specializing in cardiothoracic surgery and other procedures. Meanwhile, financial operations at Insight Investments LLC in Costa Mesa are under the leadership of newly appointed chief financial officer Robert Kolek.
In fundraising highlights, Tilly’s raised an impressive $130,000 for Tilly’s Life Center at its 18th annual charity golf tournament, and Make-A-Wish Orange County and the Inland Empire garnered $300,000 during its 10th annual It’s In The Bag Spring Fête.
Through its various programs and community engagement, Vanguard University continues to play a pivotal role in both education and social impact, demonstrating a commitment to enhancing opportunities for individuals in need.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Vanguard University Launches Headwind Scholars for Foster Youth
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Orange County Parents Convicted of Child Abuse
Vanguard University Opens New Freed Center for Leadership and Service
Vanguard University Celebrates Commencement Ceremony
Vanguard University Receives $900,000 Grant for Foster Youth Program
Vanguard University Graduates 514 Students in Commencement Ceremony
Vanguard University Launches Headwind Scholars Program
Costa Mesa Celebrates Vanguard University’s New Freed Center
Vanguard University Celebrates Graduation of 514 Students
Additional Resources
- OC Register: In-N-Out Gives $900,000 to Vanguard University
- Wikipedia: Vanguard University
- LA Times: Vanguard Dedicates Freed Center for Leadership and Service
- Google Search: Vanguard University
- OC Register: Vanguard University Breaks Ground on Hybrid Arena
- Google Scholar: Vanguard University
- Broadway World: Vanguard University Presents GREASE
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Vanguard University
- Broadway World: FOOTLOOSE at Vanguard University
- Google News: Vanguard University
