SRJC Foundation Responds to Increasing Student Needs, Provides $50,000+ in New Scholarships for Spring Semester

Santa Rosa Junior College (SRJC) Foundation just announced $52,500 in new scholarships for full-time students this spring, according to College officials. The scholarships are designed to assist students with the sometimes challenging costs, like books, that may stand in the way of their obtaining a high-quality college education. The scholarships are available for new and returning students.

“We want every community member to be able to attend SRJC,” said Don Chigazola, Chair of the Board of Directors of the SRJC Foundation. “We’ve added hundreds of classes in 2013/14. With these new scholarships, we hope to make the dream of education and a bright future a reality for even more students. Our message to students is: if you’re eligible, apply!”

In addition to books, the scholarships of $350 will cover costs of attending SRJC other than fees, such as the health fee and parking.

“College affordability should never be a barrier to attending college,” said Dr. Frank Chong, SRJC Superintendent and President. “These scholarships are our investment in Sonoma County’s future. At SRJC, we will do everything necessary to ensure that those who are serious about attending college will receive the help they need.” Chong also asked the community to help spread the word about the new scholarships.

In order to be eligible for the new scholarships, the new or returning student must enroll in 12 or more units between December 16, 2013 and January 11, 2014. Students can enroll for classes at www.santarosa.edu/apply. They can apply for the new scholarships by visiting www.santarosa.edu/newscholarship between January 13 through 17, 2014.

Board of Governor Fee Waivers have long been available to students with demonstrated financial need. The waiver covers the entire $46 per unit fee, saving students up to $552 per semester. The new scholarships will make it even more affordable for such students to attend SRJC.

The College has many additional ways of helping students and their parents pay for their education, which students can explore at the Financial Aid office website www.santarosa.edu/finaid.

The College will verify students’ full-time enrollment, and mail awardchecks to students on February 12, 2014.

“Our generous donors support the College year in and year out,” added Chong. “Their donations mean many more students will have the chance to obtain a first-rate education at SRJC.”

More information is available on www.santarosa.edu/newscholarship.Those who wish to donate can obtain more information at www.santarosa.edu/foundation.