They've been aspiring biologists and teachers; immigrants from all over the world, including Hungary, Mexico, and Vietnam; single parents; and re-entry students. Many have had to overcome enormous obstacles to get an education, or have been the first in their family to attend college. These are a few of the students who have received Karl S. Pister Leadership Opportunity Awards.
Established in 1993 by Pister, the campus's sixth chancellor, the program fosters the transfer of accomplished students from regional community colleges to UCSC. All recipients receive a $10,000 scholarship for each of two years, the support of a strong academic mentoring program, and assistance finding paid summer work experience in a field that complements their studies.
"When I reflect on the impact of actions that I took as chancellor of UCSC, creation of the Leadership Opportunity Awards program stands out above all others," said Pister. "Through their careers, LOA alumni have brought distinction to the program and to UCSC. The many campus friends who contributed to the $6.1 million endowment that sustains the program have made a good investment in the future of California."
For information about the Karl S. Pister Leadership Opportunity Awards, or to contribute, contact Kathleen Hughes at (831) 459-4552 or khughes@ucsc.edu.
