To many teens, a big step toward adulthood is pursuing higher education. Although attending college is a chosen path for a majority of American high school graduates (about 63% in 2024), a study conducted in 2024 by the National College Attainment Network found that accessibility to college is becoming increasingly difficult due to the cost of attendance.
These three foundations have made it their mission to serve as partners and resources for those pursuing higher education in Virginia, whether by supporting students directly or supporting the institutions.
John Randolph Foundation
John Randolph Foundation is a community-based resource that serves Hopewell and the surrounding Tri-Cities region. Initially founded in 1991 to support the John Randolph Hospital, JRF became a separate organization in 1995 when the hospital was sold to a for-profit entity.
The Foundation has become a pillar of support in the communities it serves by providing financial aid to students pursuing higher education, contributing more than $29 million in grants and $2.6 million in scholarships. Additionally, it is the only accredited community foundation among Virginia’s 20 health legacy foundations.
To learn more about how to support JRF’s mission or how to apply for scholarships, visit John Randolph Foundation.
Virginia Foundation for Independent Colleges
The Virginia Foundation for Independent Colleges is a statewide organization that works to secure financial support for academically qualified students regardless of their financial situation.
One of its key objectives is to advance the mission of private higher education and enhance the visibility and access to its 17 independent Virginia member colleges and universities.
“Removing financial barriers makes it possible to access these schools and thrive, without stressing about money,” said Locke Ogens, president of VFIC. “The positive ripple effects for families of first-generation students cannot be overstated.”
VFIC prides itself on being the access point for underrepresented and underserved students, ensuring they can pursue a personalized education at VFIC institutions and access the roadmap to a brighter future.
To support and learn more about VFIC and its member colleges, visit www.vfic.org.
MCV Foundation
Since its inception in 1949, MCV Foundation has provided support to VCU Health and VCU Health Sciences through scholarships, research funding and program resources.
MCV Foundation assists its campus partners in achieving their fundraising goals and development objectives, which in turn advances the education students receive while reinforcing patient care and research that happens on campus.
With more than $1 billion in assets and over 2,000 funds, the MCV Foundation continues to make a significant impact in shaping the future of healthcare and its professionals.
Learn more about MCV Foundation here.
