Rainier Scholars - where hope and hard work meet access and opportunity

Our Mission

Rainier Scholars cultivates the academic potential and leadership skills of hard-working, underrepresented students of color.

By creating access to transformative educational and career opportunities and providing comprehensive support to scholars and families, we increase college graduation rates and empower new generations of leaders.

HISTORY & PHILOSOPHY

We increase college access and graduation rates.

We develop the next generation of diverse leaders.

We build foundations of critical thinking, resilience and belonging.

HOW WE DELIVER

A History of Student Success

We have seen nearly 850 lives transformed to date, with approximately 60 new scholars added to our program each year.

Our average key performance indicators demonstrate our impact.

Scholars who are on college prep pathways

Includes independent, parochial and boarding schools, as well as public school highly capable/advanced learning opportunities

High School seniors who have been accepted to 4-year colleges and universities

Compared to the national four-year college acceptance rate of 67%

Note: This reflects the average school selectivity rate. Source: 2019 State of College Admissions, National Association for College Admissions Counseling

Eligible scholars who have graduated or are on track to graduate from 4-year colleges or universities

Compared to the national graduation rate of 65%.

Source: 2020 National Center for Education Statistics

News & Events

Join Us for Bricks & Books

We are thrilled to once again partner with Skanska for our 9th annual Bricks & Books auction, October 21-28.

This year’s event is virtual and you are invited to join in the fun, while supporting Rainier Scholars.

Starting October 18, you can donate, register to bid and preview auction items. Bidding opens October 21 and runs through October 28 at 5:30 pm PT.

Join us in building a more equitable society.

Experience Rainier Scholars

Our 2021-22 interactive virtual program tours are underway. Join us to experience the power and scope of the 12-year Rainier Scholars journey.

You’ll engage with scholars, alumni and staff. Our tour schedule also includes special opportunities to learn about Rainier Scholars-Tacoma and meet RS-Tacoma COO Jennifer Ward.