UCCS to use $100,000 grant to aid military students

The University of Colorado at Colorado Springs will launch a scholarship and recruitment campaign directed at members of the armed forces beginning this spring through a $100,000 Daniels Opportunity Scholarship grant from the Daniels Fund.

“We are deeply honored to be awarded our third Daniels Opportunity Scholarship,” Jim Henderson, vice chancellor, Student Success, said. “This $100,000 grant will support students who are returning from military service and have demonstrated financial need. Utilizing the newly established Office of Veteran and Military Student Affairs, UCCS will build on its tradition of supporting students with ties to the military.”

Plans call for 28 students to receive $1,750 per year for two years. The balance, $2,000, will be used to develop marketing materials and an outreach program for local military bases.
Applications for the new scholarships will be sent directly to the more than 300 current UCCS students identified as veteran, chapter 30 GI Bill recipients, vocational rehabilitation, dependent of veteran, selected reserve, dependent/widow of veteran, active service or veteran not eligible for benefits. Additionally, applications will be available at education offices at Fort Carson, Peterson Air Force Base and the local office of Veteran’s Affairs. Students will be required to demonstrate financial need in addition to a completing an application outlining academic goals and background. A committee will select recipients.

“The Daniels Fund has been a great supporter of the university’s outreach to non-traditional college students,” Henderson said. “Previous grants have measurably increased the likelihood that students will complete an undergraduate degree. We are confident this grant will have the same effect.”

The Daniels Opportunity Scholarship Program provides need-based scholarships to non-traditional students including adult learners, GED recipients, foster care youth, juvenile justice youth, returning military and individuals pursuing EMT/paramedic training. Funds are provided directly to colleges and universities responsible for selecting scholarships recipients.

The Daniels Fund operates the Daniels Fund Scholarship Program and the Daniels Fund Grants Program in Colorado, New Mexico, Utah and Wyoming, as well as programs with a national impact. The fund was established in 1997 by Bill Daniels, a pioneer in cable television known for his kindness and generosity to those in need. When he died in 2000, his estate transferred to the fund, making it the largest foundation in the Rocky Mountain Region. For more information, visit www.danielsfund.org

[ Back ]