Nicole Bigley
A $2.625 million commitment from the Marymount Education Foundation is opening new pathways to higher education for Southern California students. The gift establishes the Marymount Scholars Program at Chapman University.
Beginning Fall 2026, the program will provide transformative scholarship support for 40 students. The Marymount Scholars Program goes beyond traditional financial aid taking a whole-student approach through dedicated faculty mentorship, targeted academic support services including tutoring and study skills workshops, and professional development training that prepares students for meaningful careers beyond graduation. This comprehensive approach is particularly valuable for first-generation students navigating higher education for the first time.
“We believe that, when possible, students should have the opportunity to pursue a private higher education without the burden of overwhelming financial stress,” said Robyn Jones, Executive Director of the Marymount Education Foundation. “Our partnership with Chapman University reflects a shared commitment to investing in students who may not otherwise have access to a highly ranked private institution. By providing comprehensive, long-term support, we aim to address the unique needs of first-generation and high-need students, during their college years and well beyond graduation.”
“Chapman University is honored to partner with the Marymount Education Foundation in this transformative initiative,” said Jessica Berger, Executive Vice President and Chief Advancement Officer. “The Marymount Scholars Program embodies our commitment to personalized education and reflects our belief in nurturing talent, character and leadership in ways that positively impact families, communities and even regional economies.”
The partnership carries forward the legacy of Marymount California University, which closed in 2022. The Marymount Education Foundation has since partnered with Cal Lutheran University, La Sierra University, and Mount Saint Mary’s University to ensure educational access continues for Southern California students. Chapman now joins this network of institutions committed to supporting high-achieving, high-need students from the region.
At Chapman, Marymount Scholars will join a close-knit community where personalized education and student success are foundational priorities, values that align seamlessly with the foundation’s mission. The gift strengthens Chapman’s robust scholarship ecosystem, where two-thirds of the university’s endowment supports student scholarships, demonstrating a longstanding institutional commitment to access and affordability.
