Diana Wang-Louie
1st Meritus Scholar, 1996
Santa Clara University
"Meritus has helped me a great deal in endless ways. Without the financial support from Meritus throughout my four years of college, I would not be able to attend my first choice of university and have such a rich experience. I also feel I have become part of the Meritus family who truly cares about my success and happiness. This support has helped me succeed throughout my college years. I can't thank my donors enough for their support."
History
Meritus College Fund was founded in 1996 by Dr. Henry Safrit along with friends who wanted to enable access to higher education for local public school students. These young adults lacked the economic means, yet, in spite of significant challenges in their young lives, showed the drive and determination to aim for college.
Not only did the increasing costs of higher education leave many capable students behind, but also circumstances such as neighborhood violence, dysfunction within the family, recent immigration and foster care made achieving the highest marks in school impossible. Yet many of these dedicated students often worked to help their families make ends meet, led student clubs, volunteered in their community, raised younger siblings, all the while working diligently towards their dreams of attending college. These students deserved extra recognition.
Since 1996, Meritus has awarded 438 scholarships totaling more than $5 million. The success of its program could not be possible without the help of many individual donors, business organizations, and foundations. Over 450 supporters have joined us in our efforts to enable our youth to access college. For this we are grateful!