(COLUMBIA, SC) Columbia College has been awarded a $100,000 grant by the William Randolph Hearst Foundation to be used for scholarship funds for students of color. The grant is the second received by the College from the Hearst Foundation. The first, awarded in 1997, established the William Randolph Hearst Endowed Scholarship Fund, to which the current funds will be added, bringing the total to $200,000.
Since its establishment, the endowed fund has assisted three students each year in attending Columbia College. The new grant will double the number of students who can be served. The Hearst Foundation, founded in 1945 by philanthropist William Randolph Hearst, assists institutions in providing opportunities to underserved and underrepresented populations.
In 2002, the Foundation awarded more than $10 million to 103 colleges and universities across the country. The Foundation also makes similar awards to programs and institutions in the areas of health, social service and culture. Total awards for 2002 were nearly $40 million.
Columbia College President Caroline Whitson said, "Columbia College is grateful to the Hearst Foundation for its generous support. With the Foundation's help, qualified students are able to obtain a strong liberal arts foundation in preparation for graduate school or the career field of their choice."
