Empowering Dreams: Join us in the Pursuit of Educational Equity!

During National Transfer Student Week (NTSW), the KEF proudly showcased inspiring transfer stories from our KLP Scholars and alums: Ariela E. Rosa, Bolaji M. James, Fatima Bah, Sulay Restrepo, and Tiffany Garcia. We extend our heartfelt appreciation for their time, thoughtfulness, and candor. Additionally, we'd like to express our gratitude to Sparkle Sillim, Suleidy De La Cruz, Chanthea Quinland, and Gabriel Morillo for sharing their unique perspectives.

This year, NTSW's theme, 'Full Steam Ahead,' stands as a testament to the remarkable journey of upward college transfer students. It's a dedication to raising awareness about the challenges they've faced and the inspiring success stories that have emerged. These determined and hardworking individuals have not only triumphed but have also generously shared their experiences, serving as beacons of hope and inspiration for others.

As we commemorate Day 5 of the National Transfer Student Week 2023 campaign, we find ourselves at a critical juncture in the pursuit of equity in higher education, especially in light of the recent Supreme Court's Affirmative Action decision. One of the most effective ways to shape the composition of our classrooms is by strengthening community college pipelines.

The KEF's unwavering commitment is to empower students, enabling them to unlock their potential, pursue their dreams, and secure a place in those classrooms. We firmly believe in the transformative power of transfers. During NTSW, we are grateful for the opportunity to share the compelling transfer stories of some of our Scholars.

We extend our heartfelt thanks to the National Institute for the Study of Transfer Students (NISTS) for their continuous leadership in the fight for educational equity, ensuring that all students can Dream Big and achieve their highest academic and professional aspirations.

GET INVOLVED

Click here - if you are interested in learning more about what it takes to become a Kaplan Leadership Scholar.

KLP Interest Form - Are you a community college student with a passion for becoming a KLP Scholar? Stay informed about the application process by filling out this interest form to receive updates on when it opens.

KLP Nomination Form - If you are a community college administrator, professor at one of our partner institutions (see the list here), or if you know a community college student(s) who would be a good fit for KLP, consider nominating them or inviting us to speak to them about our program's benefits and eligibility criteria.

Donate to KEF - You can make a huge impact in an individual scholar’s life by helping defray the costs of being a student!

KLP Volunteer Sign-Up Form - We thrive on the enthusiastic support and active participation of companies and dedicated professionals in shaping our Scholars' remarkable journeys. The opportunities to make a difference are boundless, from one-on-one mentoring and dynamic workshops to generous donations. Here's your chance to be a catalyst for change: Be a Facilitator (remote), Ignite Flash Mentoring sessions, Lead a Volunteer Service Day, Pave the Way for an Intern, Open Doors to job opportunities, extend an invitation for Scholar Work Shadowing, or Dedicate Your Time to advance the cause of educational equity. Join us in this exhilarating journey of impact!

KLP Flash Mentoring Sign-Up Form - Experience the power of flash mentoring, where you can provide Scholars with precisely targeted, short-term support in areas like mock interviews, career guidance, and resume enhancement. These focused connections can spark lasting change through a single conversation or a series of high-impact meetings over just a few weeks. This unique volunteer opportunity empowers you to make a substantial difference in Scholars' lives, all without the need for a long-term commitment. Plus, it's your chance to network and bond with other vibrant members of the KLP community! Join us for an exhilarating journey of growth and support.

Speaking Engagements - Want to book Executive Director, Nolvia Delgado for a speaking engagement with your company? Reach out to us with inquiries, or any other questions.

Spread the Word - Follow what’s happening at the Kaplan Educational Foundation and with our Scholars on social media -- and share the news of our work, our efforts, and our mission with your friends and followers. We’re on Instagram, Facebook, and LinkedIn.If you want to get involved in any capacity not covered on this webpage contact our Program Manager Kandace Henry

Kaplan Educational Foundation's (KEF) Mission

The KEF's mission is to remove higher education barriers for underserved community college students, helping them transfer to four-year institutions for bachelor's degrees while nurturing them as future global leaders and community advocates. To achieve this, KEF offers robust financial aid, academic support, transfer guidance, advising, and leadership skills development for KLP Scholars.

Why Leadership?

The Kaplan Leadership Program (KLP) focuses on cultivating leaders because we believe it's the most effective way to create a lasting impact. We're committed to more than just producing outstanding students and high-achieving employees; by nurturing leaders, we can make a tangible difference in the lives of KLP Scholars, their families, and communities.

We believe leadership is a lifelong asset. Learning to be a leader empowers you to influence the classrooms you're part of, the discussions you engage in, and the causes you champion. Leadership involves a strong sense of curiosity, a hunger for knowledge, a commitment to personal excellence, and the ability to collaborate effectively. It requires you to build on your acquired knowledge and leverage your life experiences to shape your future. Leaders are not only critical thinkers but also attentive listeners.

What is upward college transfer?

Community college students form the majority of college transfers, transitioning from two-year institutions to four-year colleges with the aim of improving their social mobility, employment prospects, and earning potential. This upward transfer differs from lateral transfers between four-year institutions. Although up to 80% of community college students aspire to attain a bachelor's degree, just 14% achieve this goal within six years (source). KEF is committed to changing these statistics, with over 85% of KLP Scholars completing their bachelor's degree in four years. At KEF, our focus is on matching each Scholar with the right schools that align with their career aspirations, personal objectives, and financial circumstances.

#NationalTransferStudentsWeek #DreamBig #KLPScholars