About the Guardian Scholars Program

Jordan, Katie, KC, Julian, Tyler, at lunch

Guardian Scholars Mission StatementÌý

The Guardian Scholars Program empowers ¾«Æ·SMÔÚÏßӰƬ students who have experienced foster care, homelessness, or a lack of stable guardian support by providing equitable access, unwavering support, and a safe community, helping them overcome barriers, build resilience, and thrive.Ìý

Our Mantra

Success Starts with Support.

At the Guardian Scholars Program, we believe that every student deserves the opportunity to thrive. With a foundation of unwavering support, we empower students to overcome challenges, build community, and achieve their dreams.Ìý

Our PhilosophyÌý

The Guardian Scholars ProgramÌýat ¾«Æ·SMÔÚÏßӰƬ is committed to ensuring that students who have experienced foster care, homelessness, or unstable guardian supportÌýhave the resources, advocacy, and community needed to succeed. Rooted in accessibility, resilience, and empowerment, we recognize that success goes beyond academics—it requires holistic supportÌýthat fosters trust, self-advocacy, and personal growth. By removing barriers and strengthening resilience, we empower students to persist, lead, and thriveÌýat ¾«Æ·SMÔÚÏßӰƬ and beyond.


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Program Overview

Aligned with ¾«Æ·SMÔÚÏßӰƬ's mission of inclusivity and student success, the Guardian Scholars Program provides essential resources, mentorship, and a strong support systemÌýto help students thrive. Operating under TRiO Student Support Services, the program offers specialized assistance tailored to the unique needs of students who have experienced foster care, homelessness, or a lack of guardian support.

Goals and Objectives

Our Goals:

  • Empower Academic Success:ÌýEquip students with the skills, resources, and guidance to excel and graduate.
  • Enhance Personal Growth:ÌýFoster resilience, confidence, and a sense of belonging through mentorship and community-building.
  • Promote Career Readiness:ÌýProvide professional development, career counseling, and networking opportunities.

Our Objectives:

  • Offer individualized academic advisingÌýto 100% of Guardian Scholars.
  • Host at least two community-building eventsÌýper semester.
  • Provide career readiness workshops, reaching at least 80% of participants.
  • Ensure Guardian ScholarsÌýreceive financial aid support and emergency funding.

Who Is Eligible?

The Guardian Scholars Program serves students facing challenges in accessing stable support and resources, including:

  • Former Foster & FosterEd StudentsÌý– Those who have been in the foster care system.
  • McKinney-Vento StudentsÌý– Students who have experienced homelessness.
  • Students Without Parental SupportÌý– Individuals lacking financial or emotional support from a parent or guardian.

Many students fall outside traditional classifications but still face similar challenges.ÌýOur mission is to provide stability, advocacy, and successÌýfor all students who have experienced instability.

If you think you may be eligible or have questions, please contact us at: guardianscholars@colorado.edu.

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Program Offerings

  • Academic coaching and guidance
  • Access to courses that fulfill major and graduation requirements
  • Academic skills workshops
  • Tutoring
  • Walk-in academic support in Math, Chemistry, Biology, Physics, Economics, and Writing
  • Graduate or professional school preparation
  • Access to free school supplies
  • Individualized guidance and support from caring staff
  • Attention to addressing immediate needs integral for college success Ìý
  • Access to year-round housing while enrolled
  • Assistance with transitional housing plan development
  • Assistance in the areas of relationships, health and wellness, and identity development
  • Financial literacy and budgeting assistance
  • Career development and preparation
  • Assistance to students in identifying and reducing barriers to graduation from CU
  • Preparation for graduate school, professional school, or immediate entry into the work force
  • Faculty, staff, and graduate student mentors
  • Student Advising
  • Connections to other organizations and advisors on campus
  • Peer Mentorship
  • Community and civic engagement opportunities
  • Peer mentor skill building
  • Annual retreat, community building activities, social and cultural events
  • Welcome Back Event (every fall)
  • Chancellor's Thanksgiving dinner
  • Move in Day Assistance
  • Optional field trips and community outings
  • All Guardian Scholars can also participate in TRIO events like Summer Ready, Fall Gateway, TRIOween etc.
  • Integration in the Student Academic Success Center
  • Connection to Programs
  • Encouragement to engage in student organizations and campus life
  • Scholarships
  • Assistance with completion of FAFSA
  • Scholarship search help
  • Employment opportunities
  • Emergency orÌýfamily fund
  • Food insecurity fund
  • Tax filing referrals

Student Resources