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Supporting Exceptional Students: The Latest from the Jack Kent Cooke Foundation

In a time when the costs of higher education appear daunting to many families, the Jack Kent Cooke Foundation has announced a significant initiative aimed at fostering educational opportunities. On January 23, 2025, the Foundation revealed that it has named 571 high school seniors as semifinalists for its renowned Cooke College Scholarship Program. This year's announcement arrives amidst a national dialogue concerning college affordability, an issue that has reached a critical state for many families trying to navigate rising tuition fees and associated educational costs.

The Cooke College Scholarship is designed to support students with financial need, allowing them to access higher education without the burden of overwhelming debt. Awarded based on last-dollar funding, which means it covers costs after all other institutional aid, this scholarship can provide up to $55,000 per year for students to use towards obtaining a bachelor's degree at any accredited institution.

A Significant Milestone

The Cooke Foundation celebrated a remarkable milestone as its scholarship programs mark their 25th anniversary this year. Natalie Rodriguez Jansorn, Vice President of Scholarship Programs at the Cooke Foundation, expressed pride in the evolution of the Cooke Scholar community over these years, stating, "Congratulations to these students for thinking big about their futures and earning the distinction of becoming a Cooke College Scholarship semifinalist."

This year, the semifinalists are distinguished not only by the financial need they demonstrate but also by an elevated academic standard, mandated by a stringent new minimum GPA requirement of 3.75. Seppy Basili, Executive Director of the Cooke Foundation, highlighted that the dedication exhibited by these students in their academic pursuits has been exceptional and is a testament to their hard work and commitment.

A Competitive Selection Process

Selected from a competitive pool, the 571 semifinalists applied from all 50 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, and several other territories, representing over 4,200 high schools. Each candidate showcased not merely academic excellence but also strong leadership qualities, community service, and a persistent spirit—attributes that the Foundation strongly values.

As the semifinalists progress through the application review process, more will be selected as finalists. The chosen Cooke Scholars will be announced in late March 2025, marking a pivotal moment in these students' educational journeys.

About the Jack Kent Cooke Foundation

Established with the goal of advancing the education of promising students facing financial difficulties, the Jack Kent Cooke Foundation has awarded nearly $304 million in scholarships since its inception in 2000. The Foundation's mission extends beyond monetary support to provide comprehensive advising, career counseling, and initiatives effectively guiding students towards their academic and professional aspirations.

Looking Ahead

As the educational landscape evolves with increasing costs, the Jack Kent Cooke Foundation remains steadfast in addressing the challenges faced by financially strapped families. Students interested in the College Scholarship Program can look forward to the next application period opening in the fall of 2025, furthering the Foundation's ongoing commitment to educational accessibility.

In conclusion, the Cooke College Scholarship Program not only supports high-achieving students but also stands as a beacon of hope in the current educational climate, advocating for equal opportunities regardless of financial background. For further information about the scholarship and updates on the 2025 program, visit the official Jack Kent Cooke Foundation website.