November 14, 2022 BY Pedro P. Esquivel
Pictured above is Assemblymember James C. Ramos presenting the $5 million check to CEO Dina Walker and Board Chairman of the BLU Educational Foundation, Daniel Walker. | (PHOTO FROM: BLU Archives)
As tuition costs continue to rise, the BLU Educational Foundation received a $5 million check to fund their college and career access programs over the next 3 years.
Assemblymember James C. Ramos (D-40, Highland) presented the check to the BLU Educational Foundation on September 13, 2022. The funds are said to be allocated periodically and are not available to spend for the non-profit organization, as of this publishing.
“[By] being able to secure $5 million, we keep those hopes and dreams alive for our community and our youth,” said Ramos.
“That’s really what this $5 million represents: belief in our community.”
Dina Walker, President and CEO of BLU, spoke about the funding. “BLU’s College Exodus Project is a bold step in the diversion arena.” Walker continues, “Placing priority on the young person as a whole is a commitment to building healthy, productive communities.”
The BLU Educational Foundation is said to use funding by offering a college-to-career access program called the College Exodus Project, or C.E.P.
Students will be given support to advance their public speaking skills in the new training program. Furthermore, students will also be expected to engage in policy and constituency in an effort to address common issues in the community college system.
BLU staff (as of September 13, 2022) holding the $5 million check with Assemblymember James C. Ramos. | BLU Archives
One student, Kaylie White, participated in BLU’s College Exodus Project and spoke alongside Ramos and Walker. “My experience with BLU has always been amazing.”
“The staff is very resourceful and caring,” said White.
BLU is set to thrive with new funding and programs to improve on. The futures of the BLU Educational Foundation and the communities it serves are looking hopeful.
To stay up-to-date on the BLU Educational Foundation, how it spends the $5 million and how it navigates through a promising new year, stay subscribed to the BLU Note. Thank you for your continued support!