New Mexico Simon Scholars

Vision

Empowerment through self-discovery, exploration, and education

Mission

The New Mexico Simon Scholars Program supports students who demonstrate resilience in the face of economic and life challenges. Our scholars, who are among the first in their family to pursue a college education, embody determination, persistence, optimism, gratitude and enthusiasm. Our community of scholars views higher education as a pathway to a successful and fulfilling life. We strive to facilitate meaningful opportunities for our scholars to better know themselves as individuals, family members, and community members, while assisting them in attaining a college degree.

Objectives

  • To facilitate each scholar’s exploration of their personal stories, dreams, goals, abilities, and interests
  • To develop a strong sense of community and camaraderie among our scholars and staff
  • To explore and anticipate challenges commonly experienced by students historically underrepresented in higher education
  • To guide our scholars through the college exploration, application, and selection process
  • To enable each scholar to form a relationship with a current/recent college student as a tutor and mentor
  • To assist our scholars in applying for financial aid and additional scholarships
  • To serve as a resource for our scholars and their families throughout high school and as they navigate the college transition process

Program Components

  • Weekly Academic Tutoring and Mentoring
  • Summer Retreat
  • Team-Building Activities
  • Life Skills Development
  • Career Exploration Opportunities
  • ACT Test Preparation
  • College Guidance Workshops
  • College Visits
  • Group and Individual College Transition Support

In addition to participating in the program, students also receive:

  • A laptop computer
  • Cash stipends in high school (up to $500/year)
  • Access to our network of college, scholarship and community partners
  • Up to $16,000 in need-based college scholarship funds

For more information about the New Mexico Simon Scholars Program and to apply, please visit: www.nmsimonscholars.org