Wright State, Sinclair team up to launch ambitious scholarship program for low-income students

Bright, hard-working students who can’t go to college because their families struggle to make ends meet, take heart. There may be college in your future. It’s a promise.

An exciting program designed to provide college scholarships over 10 years for up to 500 academically promising local high school students from poverty-stricken families is being launched by Wright State University and Sinclair Community College.

Modeled after a program in Florida, the Montgomery County*Ohio College Promise program is believed to be the only one of its kind ever started in the Dayton area.

“We’re just really proud to be part of this. It’s the essence of what we’re all about at Wright State,” said Wright State President David R. Hopkins. “What’s so remarkable about this program is how it will change lives. It’s not only changing their lives; it’s changing a generation to come.”

Wright State will provide financial support from privately raised funds for 20 students a year, beginning in 2017. The $10,000 per student will include money for room and board. In addition, the students will be connected to advising and financial support services.

“It was an easy decision for us because of our mission, which is an access mission,” said Jacqueline McMillan, vice president for enrollment management.

The selected students enter the program as they leave 8^th grade. As the students begin high school, caring and supportive adult mentors meet with them weekly to help keep them on track.

The students must pledge to maintain a strong record of attendance, stay away from alcohol, tobacco, drugs and crime, practice good citizenship, and take part in school or community-based activities.

After the students complete high school and meet college-entrance requirements, they will be awarded scholarships that enable them to attend Sinclair and/or Wright State at no or little cost to them or their families.

“This is a proven concept. It could really make a difference in Montgomery County,” said retired businessman John Taylor, who donated $1 million as seed money.

“We have two wonderful partners in Wright State and Sinclair Community College,” Taylor said. “Without their support, we never would have gotten it off the ground.”