The prospect of affording higher education can be daunting for many high school students and their families. To address this challenge, the city of Scottsdale is proud to introduce the Scottsdale College Promise, a new scholarship program designed to help residents achieve their higher education goals.
Scottsdale College Promise is a collaborative initiative involving the city of Scottsdale, Scottsdale Community College, Scottsdale Unified School District, and the Maricopa Community Colleges Foundation. This last-dollar, needs-based program provides financial assistance to eligible Scottsdale residents and graduates of Scottsdale high schools, supporting their pursuit of education at Maricopa Community Colleges.
“Scottsdale College Promise represents our commitment to investing in the future of our youth as they pursue higher education,” said Mayor David D. Ortega. “This program opens doors to educational opportunities and encourages our young residents to consider future careers with the city of Scottsdale.”
The program is tailored for current Scottsdale residents or graduates from Scottsdale high schools who qualify for in-county tuition. While students can attend any Maricopa Community College, Scottsdale Community College serves as the anchor institution for the program.
“We value the strong partnership among the Scottsdale Unified School District, the city of Scottsdale, and Scottsdale Community College,” said Dr. Eric Leshinskie, president of SCC. “The Scottsdale Promise Program is a shining example of how we can come together to support our students and community. I want to thank city leadership for trusting SCC to help create brighter futures and greater opportunities for our students and families.”
As a last-dollar and stipend program, Scottsdale Promise provides financial support after all other grants and scholarships have been applied.
The Scottsdale City Council approved $500,000 in seed funding for the program through the Fiscal Year 2023/24 budget, with an initial commitment of up to $100,000 for the first year.
“Future funding will depend on annual appropriations by the City Council, with a focus on collaboration between the city, the Maricopa Community College Foundation, and other partners to secure private donations for the program’s long-term sustainability,” said Brian Spicker, President and CEO of the Maricopa Community Colleges Foundation. “This investment not only supports the educational aspirations of Scottsdale residents but also helps cultivate a skilled and educated workforce that will benefit the community for years to come.”
Scottsdale Unified School District Superintendent Dr. Scott Menzel echoed these sentiments.
“In SUSD, we are committed to being world-class and future-focused, ensuring our graduates are college and career-ready. We understand the financial challenges of pursuing higher education and appreciate the city’s initiative to ease this burden through Scottsdale Promise. This scholarship not only reduces financial stress but also highlights our community’s dedication to supporting educational opportunities for all students,” he said. “Thank you to the city of Scottsdale and Scottsdale Community College for continuing to invest in our students’ futures.”
For more information on the Scottsdale College Promise, eligibility requirements, and how to apply, please visit the Scottsdale Promise webpage.
Several Scottsdale City Council members, who served on the Joint Subcommittee on Education—the group that initiated this effort—shared their thoughts:
“One of my first actions upon being elected in 2020 was helping to create an education subcommittee that linked the city with our education partners to find mutual benefits for the city, schools, and our community. We’ve been meeting quarterly, and the Scottsdale College Promise is a concrete example of the great work being done,” Councilwoman Tammy Caputi said. “This partnership with our education providers enhances lifelong learning opportunities and strengthens the community’s role in supporting a positive educational environment, contributing to a strong workforce and a vibrant economy.”
“I am passionate about higher education, so I wholeheartedly support the Scottsdale College Promise. This program will help prepare a new generation for the challenges and opportunities of Scottsdale’s future,” Councilmember Tom Durham added.
“I applaud the Scottsdale College Promise, which provides funding for Scottsdale students who cannot afford college tuition,” Councilwoman Betty Janik said. “This opens the door to opportunity for our deserving students. Education is the key that lifts us to a better future.”
“College costs increase each year, making it harder for many students to afford higher education,” said Councilwoman Kathy Littlefield. “I’m glad our city can help Scottsdale students continue their studies at this level so they can achieve success in their chosen fields.”
“I’m thrilled to see this proposed scholarship turn into reality. We are all more prosperous when we invest in education for our youth,” Councilwoman Solange Whitehead said. “Helping our students reach their full potential is an idea that has become a reality. Ensuring that all our residents prosper means helping each of our students reach their full potential.”
