News Summary
Vanguard University has secured a $900,000 grant from the In-N-Out Burger Foundation to create the Headwind Scholars program, aimed at supporting former foster youth. This initiative will provide essential financial aid and academic resources to help these students succeed in their educational journeys. The program is directed by a dedicated Vanguard graduate and emphasizes the university’s commitment to nurturing vulnerable populations. Additionally, Vanguard is transitioning to NCAA Division II membership, enhancing its athletic programs and overall student experience.
Costa Mesa — Vanguard University has received a significant boost in its efforts to support former foster youth through a $900,000 grant from the In-N-Out Burger Foundation (INOBF). This funding will establish the Headwind Scholars program, which aims to provide critical financial aid, academic resources, and comprehensive support services for students who have aged out of the foster care system.
President of Vanguard University, Michael J. Beals, indicated that the grant will create a lasting impact on the academic careers of former foster youth. The Headwind Scholars program is designed to help these students navigate their educational journey, ensuring they have access to necessary resources that can enhance their chances of success in college and beyond.
Howard Booker, the Executive Director of INOBF, reiterated the foundation’s commitment to supporting vulnerable children, particularly those who have faced abuse and neglect. He emphasized that the investment in the Headwind Scholars program aligns with their mission of empowering students to thrive in a nurturing Christian college environment.
Mark Orphan, a Vanguard graduate, has been appointed as the director of the Headwind Scholars program. Orphan is also a pastor and co-founder of the nonprofit organization Finally Home, which further highlights his dedication to serving youth in need and fostering their potential.
Vanguard University, established in 1920, enrolls approximately 2,200 students and offers a range of nearly 100 full-time faculty positions across 30 undergraduate and six graduate programs. The university’s commitment to student development is evident in this new initiative, aimed at helping former foster youth secure a brighter future.
Additionally, Vanguard is undergoing significant changes within its athletic program. The university recently received approval to transition to NCAA Division II membership by the 2025-26 academic year, moving away from its previous affiliation with the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA). This early approval enables Vanguard to compete fully in the PacWest Conference and aspire for national championships. Although the athletic teams participated in a Division II schedule last year while on probation, they were ineligible for postseason play during that time.
Recent infrastructure improvements complement the university’s academic programs. The new Freed Center for Leadership and Service opened in fall 2023, enhancing both student experience and athletic facilities, thereby acknowledging the need for modern resources to support a diverse student body.
In the broader context of community engagement, local educational institutions are striving to address the needs of underserved populations. For instance, the Boys & Girls Clubs of Central Orange Coast established a college and workforce hub at Cypress College, aimed at providing vital resources for teens and young adults. Additionally, HomeAid Orange County is set to host a diaper drive, supporting families in need within the community.
Moreover, community involvement in fundraising remains robust, with recent events such as Tilly’s charity golf tournament raising $130,000, while Make-A-Wish Orange County gathered $300,000 at their annual Spring Fête. These events underscore the commitment and collaboration of local organizations and citizens in making a positive impact on Orange County’s vulnerable populations.
The formation of the Headwind Scholars program at Vanguard University and the community’s ongoing initiatives show a strong commitment to uplift former foster youth and underserved individuals, fostering an environment of care, support, and opportunity.
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Vanguard University Achieves Full NCAA Division II Membership
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Vanguard University Launches Headwind Scholars for Foster Youth
Vanguard University Presents Footloose Musical
Vanguard University Achieves NCAA Division II Membership
Vanguard University Receives $900,000 Grant for Former Foster Youth
Additional Resources
- Los Angeles Times: Vanguard University Granted Full NCAA Division II Membership
- Wikipedia: Vanguard University
- Patch: Costa Mesa University Gets $900,000 Grant from In-N-Out
- Google Search: Vanguard University Headwind Scholars
- OC Register: In-N-Out Gives $900,000 to Vanguard U to Help Former Foster Kids
- Google Scholar: Vanguard University
- Los Angeles Times: Vanguard University Kicks Off Graduation Season
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Vanguard University
Author: STAFF HERE HUNTINGTON BEACH
The Huntington Beach Staff Writer represents the experienced team at HEREHuntingtonBeach.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Huntington Beach, Orange County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Huntington Beach Surf City USA Marathon, the U.S. Open of Surfing, Fourth of July celebrations at the Huntington Beach Pier, and community festivals at Huntington Beach Central Park. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Huntington Beach Chamber of Commerce and Visit Huntington Beach, plus leading businesses in retail, hospitality, and outdoor recreation that drive the local economy. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAnaheim.com, HERECostaMesa.com, HERESantaAna.com, and HERELosAngeles.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Southern California's dynamic landscape.
