Who We Are
Our Vision
Our Mission
Our Mission
A world where all LGBTQ+ student leaders have the financial resources to pursue their college goals and are respected, valued, and affirmed inclusive of their sexual orientation, gender identity, and gender expression.
Our Mission
Our Mission
Our Mission
Empowering LGBTQ+ Students to Envision and Fulfill their Dreams of Higher Education!
Empowering Them levels the playing field by providing necessary financial scholarships to talented LGBTQ+ students pursuing a college degree.
Scholarship recipients demonstrate academic success, career potential, and a commitment to their communities.
Education Can Elevate, but It’s Not a Level Playing Field!
Welcome to Empowering Them
While much has changed for the LGBTQ+ community in the recent years, educational and financial support remains critical for many student leaders who face challenges on their educational journeys.
- x% of LGBTQ+ students dropout of college because of financial adversity
- y% of LGBTQ+ students report feeling isolated and unsupported in college
- z% of LGTBQ+ students receive zero financial support from their families as they pursue college degrees
Scholarship Eligibility
Current High School Seniors or Undergraduate Students
Los Angeles or Orange county LGBTQ+ current high school senior or undergraduate student who plan to enroll full-time in an accredited two-year or four-year college or university in the United States for the entire upcoming academic year to study STEM, Business, Medicine or Public Affairs.
Identify as LGBTQ+
Must identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer/questioning, intersex, asexual who have directly supported LGBTQ+ youth and community.
Residency Requirement
Available to residents (or children of residents) of Los Angeles/Orange County. Scholarship recipients must be able to verify residency upon selection.
Educational Institution
Applicants must be legally able to enroll in an accredited college or university in the United States, and provide proof of enrollment. They must plan to enroll in any of the following majors: STEM, Business, Medicine or Public Affairs.
Merit Based
This is a merit-based scholarship, requiring the applicants to have a GPA of at least 3.0 out of 4.0 (unweighted).
Scholarship Selection Criteria
Successful Student Leaders Demonstrate:
Ambition and self-drive as evidenced by outstanding achievement, participation, and leadership in school activities and work experience. Commitment and service to the LGBTQ+ community via support, education and/or advocacy in their school or community. Overall, this includes:
- Academic achievement or work experience
- Demonstrated commitment and service to the LGBTQ+ community
- Leadership and involvement in school and community activities