The University of Puget Sound announced yesterday it met the requirements of a $10,000 challenge grant from the KeyBank Foundation. An additional $7,500 was donated by KeyBank in support of the Summer Academic Challenge (S.A.C.). The intensive 21 – day program is part of the year-round Access to College Initiative offered by University of Puget Sound in partnership with the Tacoma School District.

Acknowledging the success of the challenge grant, Access Program Director, Kim Bobby said, “This is wonderful news. It demonstrates both KeyBank and the community’s belief in this program and the amazing benefits it provides to area youth. Thanks to their generosity, 60 students will be able to attend the Summer Academic Challenge for free.”

Summer Academic Challenge brings academically-promising, yet often-underrepresented minority students in grades seven through 12 closer to the college experience. Founded in 1993, it helps these public school students to align their school coursework with college entrance requirements. Throughout the school year and during the summer months, they also benefit from the University of Puget Sound faculty, students, and staff who provide academic support through tutoring and workshops that include peer mentors, information, and contacts to help students stay on track with college requirements.

Students must be nominated by their parents, community leaders, principals, school counselors, teachers, or student organizations in order to be considered for the program. Program applicants are evaluated based on a specific set of criteria, their applications and personal interview. Parental involvement and commitment are expectations of all entering into the Access to College Initiative. More information on Summer Academic Challenge and the Access to College Initiative is available at http://www.ups.edu/x4169.xml .