Shifting priorities for educational funding and fee increases are pushing student demand for scholarships to an all-time high. The greatest challenge, however, is SUPPLY—too few scholarships exist. The Division of Student Services will address this issue over the next few years. Successful scholarship models exist—examples include athletic scholarship programs and the women & Philanthropy program for re-entry students. The division’s next big development push will focus on raising scholarship money using new and innovative methods.

The Beach Scholarship Concert Series. The Beach Scholarship Concert Series existed only in concept when Vice President Doug Robinson convened the Concert Production Committee. During fall 2005, the division held the first in an annual series of concerts to raise money for scholarships and to develop connections with the local community. The selected artists reflect the diversity of our students and the local area. The project will strengthen relationships throughout the region and showcase the need for general scholarship monies.

Evelyn Champagne King invited audience members to groove along to her hits.

The first two shows were logistical successes. Musica Caliente featured the Latin sound of Ricardo Lemvo and Makina Loca, Incendio and Quetzal and captivated everyone in attendance. The second concert, Old School Explosion, mesmerized the crowd with the old school talents of Bloodstone, Evelyn Champagne King and Heatwave.

Bloodstone

The division is set to ride the momentum into the next concert, which will feature WAR and Malo. (If you are having trouble picturing WAR, think of the lyrics: “Cisco Kid was a friend of mine,” and “All my friends know the low rider.”)

CSULB Book Scholarship First-Tier Fundraiser. At the end of the day, most of us empty our pockets. Often, we throw loose change in a jar. This project focuses on the loose change. We believe that your loose change can help students buy books. The goal is to average about $2.50 per piggy bank each month. Initially, 100 banks were distributed, which will equate to $3,000 per year for book scholarships. If you are interested in participating in the Book Scholarship Piggy Bank Fundraiser, pick-up a “Scholarships @ the Beach” piggy bank from the Center for Scholarship Information in the University Student Union, room 108. Most importantly, save your change! —Stickney-Smith, coordinator of the center, is an alumnus of CSULB’s President’s Scholars Program and served as president of the Associated Students, Inc. during 2001–02. For further information about scholarships, visit www.csulb.edu/scholarships or contact the Center for Scholarship Information at (562) 985-2549.

You may donate to scholarships online at www.csulb.edu/giving2students or through the Payroll Deduction Program. Forms for employee payroll deduction may be downloaded at www.csulb.edu/payroll-deduction.