NEW YORK, September 14, 2022 — Barnard College announced today its selection to the second cohort of the Schuler Access Initiative, a transformational $20 million matching opportunity that will allow for the admission of more young people from disadvantaged backgrounds through the creation and expansion of hundreds of scholarships for Pell-eligible and undocumented students. This is made possible by the Schuler Education Foundation, a philanthropic organization that invests in high-achieving underrepresented students at top-tier liberal arts colleges.
The Foundation will match funds raised by the College dollar for dollar, and Barnard can secure qualifying pledges toward the match immediately. With the Foundation’s match, Barnard stands to raise a remarkable $40 million for financial aid.
Coupled with the College’s ambitious recruitment goals, this partnership will substantially expand Barnard’s efforts to advance educational access and break down barriers for low-income and undocumented students.
“This partnership between Barnard and the Schuler Education Foundation will give deserving young women the life-changing opportunity to access a top-tier college education,” said President Sian Leah Beilock. “The College’s selection to the Schuler Access Initiative recognizes and significantly enhances our efforts. By matching our funds, we’ll be able to jointly dedicate up to $40 million to provide equal access to more high-achieving students whose families have limited resources and those who are ineligible for government aid.”
The Schuler Education Foundation chose Barnard as part of its second cohort of five highly selective liberal arts colleges. Ultimately, the Foundation will partner with up to 20 colleges, generating $1 billion in investment for these underserved populations.
“I’m thrilled that we’ll be able to welcome a group of smart, accomplished, and ambitious young people to the College with the Schuler match. Once they’re here, our Access Barnard program will provide important resources to help bridge the gaps that first-time undergraduates often face as they transition into college,” said Dean of the College Leslie Grinage. “Talented students too often face access issues that exclude them from higher education. This incredible partnership with the Schuler Education Foundation speaks directly to our mission, enabling us to expand our reach and advance equity.”
To learn more about how to participate in the Schuler match, please contact Michael Farley, Vice President, Development and Alumnae Relations, at mfarley@barnard.edu.