New Cal State San Marcos Scholarship Program Supports Region's Most Promising Students

Cal State San Marcos has introduced a new merit-based scholarship program designed to encourage the region's most promising students to continue their education, while becoming active participants on the campus and in the community.

The Presidential Scholars Program, which was kicked off during the recent University Ball, provides selected entering freshmen with financial support valued at $13,000 that covers fees, books, and living expenses (equivalent to room and board at University Village).

"With the creation of the Presidential Scholars Program, we can recognize those high achieving students who are making a conscious choice to study at Cal State San Marcos," explained Francine Martinez, vice president of student affairs. "The President's Scholars Program provides us the opportunity to support the continued outstanding work of these students at the university."

Eligible students must meet rigorous selection criteria. Freshmen applicants must have graduated from a California high school, and have a 3.75 grade point average (or be in the top five percent of their graduating class. They must also be fully eligible for admission to the California University System. Demonstrated leadership in school and in the community will also be considered. Transfer students from California community colleges will be considered, depending on availability of funding.

Applicants for the 2002-2003 Presidential Scholarship Program must have already applied and been accepted by Cal State San Marcos.

Selected Presidential Scholars will be asked to contribute to the university through outreach efforts with local middle and high schools, attendance at community functions with the university president, service on university planning committees, and/or serving in a student leadership role on campus.

Currently, one four-year Presidential Scholarship has been funded, and an endowment in being created to support the continuation of the program. During the 2003 University Ball, held March 15 at the Del Mar Country Club, approximately $53,600 was raised for the scholarship during a special live auction. This funding goes directly to the inaugural scholarship.

More information about supporting the Presidential Scholarship Program is available by calling
760/750-4409. More information about Presidential Scholarship eligibility is available at www.csusm.edu/finaid/scholarship/ps.htm.