News Summary
Vanguard University in Costa Mesa has received a $900,000 grant from the In-N-Out Burger Foundation to launch the Headwind Scholars program. This initiative will support former foster youth transitioning into higher education by providing financial aid and tailored resources. Michael J. Beals, the university president, emphasizes the program’s potential impact. With Mark Orphan appointed as director, Vanguard aims to foster a supportive community for these students, addressing the unique challenges they face as they pursue academic success.
Costa Mesa, California – Vanguard University Receives $900,000 Grant for Foster Youth
Vanguard University in Costa Mesa has been awarded a substantial $900,000 grant from the In-N-Out Burger Foundation. This funding is earmarked for the establishment of the Headwind Scholars program, aimed at assisting former foster youth as they transition into higher education.
The Headwind Scholars program will provide essential financial aid, academic resources, and support services tailored to the unique needs of eligible students who have experienced the challenges of the foster care system. This initiative is designed to empower these individuals to succeed in a Christian college environment and will enhance the available resources for both current and future graduates of the foster care system.
Michael J. Beals, president of Vanguard University, has expressed optimism regarding the program’s potential for long-term impact, highlighting the valuable opportunities it will create for students in need. The funding will enable the university to integrate comprehensive support mechanisms that address both the academic and personal hurdles faced by former foster youth.
Commitment to At-Risk Youth
The In-N-Out Burger Foundation has a long-standing commitment to supporting children who have confronted abuse and neglect. This grant aligns with the foundation’s mission, which emphasizes the importance of educational opportunities for disadvantaged youth, reflecting the values set forth by the company’s founders, Harry and Esther Snyder.
In a bid to effectively manage the program, Vanguard University has appointed Mark Orphan as the director of the Headwind Scholars program. Orphan is not only a Vanguard graduate but also a co-founder of the nonprofit organization Finally Home, which advocates for foster youth and adoption. His background and experience will contribute significantly to the success and outreach of this new initiative.
The Landscape of Vanguard University
Founded in 1920, Vanguard University is a private Christian institution located in Costa Mesa, California. Currently, the university enrolls approximately 2,200 students and employs around 100 full-time faculty members. The university offers a diverse range of academic programs, including 30 undergraduate programs and six graduate degree programs, catering to a wide array of educational pursuits.
The introduction of the Headwind Scholars program marks a significant step in addressing the needs of a vulnerable segment of the student population. By providing both financial and academic support, Vanguard University aims to foster a supportive community that not only educates but also uplifts those who have faced substantial obstacles during their formative years.
Conclusion
The collaboration between Vanguard University and the In-N-Out Burger Foundation stands as a testament to the power of community engagement in improving educational outcomes for foster youth. With the implementation of the Headwind Scholars program, these organizations are setting a foundation for a brighter future for countless deserving students.
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Additional Resources
- OC Register: In-N-Out Gives $900,000 to Vanguard U
- Patch: Costa Mesa University Gets $900,000 Grant
- OC Business Journal: University Expands Sports with New Building
- LA Times: Vanguard Peer Educators Teach About Human Trafficking
- Ministry Watch: Largest Christian Colleges and Universities
- Wikipedia: Foster Care
- Google Search: Vanguard University
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