Orange High School, Chapman University, and the Simon Foundations Partner to Create the Simon STEM Scholarship Program

ORANGE, CA — February 17, 2015 — Orange High School, Chapman University, and the Simon Foundations have partnered to create the Simon STEM Scholarship Program, a unique opportunity for selected Orange High School students who major in a STEM (science, technology, engineering and math) degree to receive a full scholarship to Chapman University.

Each year, four Orange High School Juniors will be selected for the scholarship program based on their grade point average (GPA) and desire to pursue a career in a STEM discipline. These students will receive a computer, college level research experience, academic support, and opportunities to participate in community service activities and other programs designed to prepare students for success in college and beyond.

"The partnership with the Simon STEM Scholarship Program and Chapman University will provide Orange High School students with an exceptional opportunity to engage in STEM, increasing their access to transformational educators and next generation science innovations,” said Orange Unified School District Superintendent Michael L. Christensen.

“The Simon STEM Scholarship Program will be a life-changing opportunity for our student recipients,” added Ernie Gonzalez, principal of Orange High School.

Following the completion of high school a 3.0 or higher GPA, Simon STEM Scholars will receive a full scholarship to Chapman University, including tuition and housing.

“Raising the bar in science education is a priority at Chapman and this partnership is a testament to that,” said James L. Doti, Ph.D., and president of Chapman University. “The Simon Foundations have a legacy of sending young scholars to college and we are honored to join them in establishing a unique program that will help Orange High School students interested in pursuing an education and career grounded in STEM.”

Students electing not to attend Chapman University will be eligible for a $16,000 Simon Foundations Scholarship to assist with tuition as they pursue their STEM-focused studies at the university of their choice.

“We are proud to work in alignment with leaders from Chapman University and Orange Unified School District to provide the STEM Scholarship to deserving young students and foster future leaders in this expanding field,” said Ronald M. Simon, founder of the Simon Foundations.

For additional information about Simon Scholars, please visit www.simonscholars.org