SCHOLARSHIP, MENTORING, & PARTICIPATION

The Pay It Forward Scholarship and Mentoring Program, through private funds, provides a $20,000 four-year scholarship at California State University, Monterey Bay, to local Monterey County, first-generation college students. Each scholar is mentored by a community leader who helps the student navigate the challenges of college life. In turn, the scholars must maintain a four-year graduation track and a 2.5 GPA. They "Pay It Forward" by mentoring a FCF participant, creating a cycle of local college students who are contributing to the community even as they study.

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Since the program's inception in 2008, a total of 2.1 million dollars in scholarships have been distributed with an additional $850,000 raised for future distribution to current students. 

Class of 2020 Scholar Highlight: Ernesto Verduzco

Film by Scholar Monica Cortez