This funding announcement follows a recent $200,000 pledge from the City of Whittier reinforcing the program's mission to cultivate future civic and business leaders through experiential learning and career preparation.
The Civic Scholars Program provides scholarships for students collaborating with community partners, offering opportunities to engage in public service, develop leadership skills, and gain practical experience that complements their academic studies. This initiative reflects Whittier College’s ongoing commitment to advancing social mobility and student success.
“We are profoundly grateful to the Fletcher Jones Foundation for their extraordinary support,” said President Kristine Dillon. “The Civic Scholars Program is a cornerstone of our mission to empower students to become passionate leaders in our communities, state, and nation. This funding enables us to expand opportunities for students to bridge the gap between education and practice, making a lasting impact on the region.”
Programs like Civic Scholars, part of Whittier Works, exemplify the college’s commitment to ensuring that students graduate with both a robust academic foundation and the practical skills necessary to excel in their careers. By integrating hands-on experiences with their studies, Whittier College continues to demonstrate the adaptability and relevance of a liberal arts education.
Founded in 1969 through the estate of Fletcher Jones, co-founder of Computer Sciences Corporation, the Fletcher Jones Foundation is dedicated to advancing private higher education in California. Based in Pasadena, the foundation is overseen by a distinguished nine-member board comprising leaders in business, law, finance, education, and government. It operates independently of the similarly named automobile dealership in Orange County.
This is not the first time the Fletcher Jones Foundation has invested in Whittier College's success. For years, the foundation has given generously to key programs at Whittier, including recent major gifts to fund the Quantitative Success Center, support students in STEM, establish fellowships in science and health, and endow a faculty chair in molecular biology.
