GTF Scholars
Greater Texas Foundation models its mission through its innovative GTF Scholars program.
The first program of its kind in Texas, GTF Scholars was established to increase the number of Texas Early College High School (ECHS) graduates who successfully transition to a four-year institution of higher education and complete a baccalaureate degree. The program serves majority low income and historically underserved student populations and many of the students are first generation college goers.
Since 2012, the foundation has invested over $25 million through a network of partner institutions to create a statewide program that will serve more than 1,500 ECHS graduates by 2025.
This highly effective program combines a cohort model with scholarship funding and student support services to measurably impact student success.
Cohort model
Scholarship funding
Student support
Success
"GTF has long supported the education of early college high school students in Texas and has provided a platform and body of research that has encouraged Texas institutions to be open to this type of education which yields tremendously positive outcomes for students."
Evidence of Effectiveness
We are proud to share the details and data from this program so colleges and other foundations can emulate this very successful model to serve the growing number of ECHS students in Texas.
Horizons of Opportunity
Meet GTF Scholar Diego Fonseca from Brownsville, Texas, who is fascinated by the stock market and is preparing for a career in finance or consulting.
What GTF Scholars Say
“It was not all about money.
I had someone who genuinely cared about my academic progress and what they could to help me succeed. Unlike any other scholarship!”
“Being a GTF Scholar meant I was part of the trailblazers that said YES. First generation college students can and will.”
“I really liked the sessions that taught you “how to adult” because my parents never taught me anything about credit scores, budgeting, taxes, etc. It was super meaningful to me.”
“GTF Scholars helped me connect with professors, university staff, and EC students I otherwise would have never met on my own.
I definitely felt a part of something greater than myself.
