Building a Bold Future

Strategy 1

Strengthen the Scholar and Family Experience

Strategy 2

Build a Vibrant Alumni Network

Strategy 3

Grow College Success

Strategy 1
Strengthen the Scholar and Family Experience

We are deepening support for scholars and families by actively listening to their experiences and using that feedback to guide program improvements. Last spring, our most successful survey to date showed that families overwhelmingly recommend Rainier Scholars. At the same time, scholars and families shared areas where we can grow. These insights, coupled with the findings from a self-study conducted by staff – have led us to focus on the following priority areas: data-driven learning, updating and integrating our high school and, separately, college programming, and improving the experience of our scholars attending public schools.  

Strategy 2
Build a Vibrant Alumni Network

With more than 400 alumni, Rainier Scholars is expanding support beyond graduation to foster lifelong success. Through surveys, focus groups, and community conversations, alumni shared that they feel deeply connected to the program but want more structured opportunities to engage and grow. In response, we are working to expand alumni career and graduate school support, facilitate skill-building opportunities focused on the critical skills rising and recent grads need to enter and advance in today’s workforce, and identifying new ways for alumni to support current scholars. From local gatherings in Seattle to our first-ever alumni event in New York City, we are laying the foundation for a strong, connected alumni community that thrives long after graduation.

Strategy 3
Grow College Success

Rainier Scholars is committed to extending opportunities to even more students in the years ahead. Building on the success of our growing Tacoma program, we are clarifying the essential elements of our model and exploring where it can have the greatest impact. From new cities to nearby suburban communities, we are envisioning how Rainier Scholars can support more young people on the path to college and career success. Guided by thoughtful analysis and community input, our leadership and Board of Trustees are making important decisions that will shape the next chapter of growth—expanding the reach of our mission while staying true to its core.