First class of Flyer Promise Scholars to graduate; program removes financial barriers, offers support for underserved students

The University of Dayton's first Flyer Promise Scholars will graduate this spring — cementing the success of the program created to remove financial barriers and offer support for underrepresented and underserved students.

The first class of 40 academically talented undergraduates includes many who never considered applying to UD before Flyer Promise because they saw the University as financially out of reach. The program, designed for seniors at partner high schools who are eligible for the need-based federal Pell Grant, provides significant university- and donor-funded scholarship and grant assistance, along with mentoring, leadership opportunities and other supports. It has grown since 2017 to include 168 students, with 98% on track to graduate in four years.

"I am so proud of each and every student for what they have accomplished," said Dean of Admissions Donnell Wiggins, who oversees the program. "They have persevered through ups and downs; they have changed our campus for the better by starting new organizations like our first Hispanic fraternity; they have served as resident advisors, peer mentors and president's emissaries; and some have even secured job offers months before graduation. They are change agents. They're going to influence the world in a meaningful way."  [Read More]