Evans College Incentive Program (CIP) Story 

With inspiration and a lead gift from a local couple, the MPC Foundation established the Evans College Incentive Program (CIP) in 2015 to improve college access and degree attainment rates in Monterey County, particularly among socioeconomically disadvantaged youth who are underrepresented in higher education. Since that time, the Foundation has directly invested over $800,000 into more than 600 at-promise students, while the College has provided the guidance and wraparound support needed to empower them to enroll full-time at MPC and grow into successful college students

Each year, educators, counselors and youth services professionals from more than 60 schools and youth-serving agencies throughout Monterey County are invited to nominate high school seniors who have college-going potential, but who need additional support in order to successfully transition to college. There is no limit to the number of students that they may put forward for consideration.

This opportunity is unlike any other scholarship program at MPC – we are specifically focusing on youth who are unlikely to become college graduates – changing the direction of their lives by encouraging and helping them to succeed.

CIP participants are given the opportunity to earn $4,500 in financial assistance, paid incrementally as they continue their studies at MPC, and including a final $1,000 payment upon their transfer to a four-year college or university. 

The 2025 nomination period will open in March 2025.

 There is no limit to the number of students an organization may nominate.

Potential Nominees Must:

• Have financial need;

• Face challenges or disadvantages that make them unlikely to attend or succeed at completing college (see nomination form for more information);

• Have the potential to be successful if provided the right support, motivation, and financial assistance.

Program Benefits – Evans Scholars receive:

• Specialized workshops, trainings, counseling, and motivational activities;

• Incremental scholarships throughout their time at MPC, as well as upon their acceptance to a four-year transfer university.

How You Can Help:

•  Make a Donation (select "Evans College Incentive Program" from the "Apply my gift to" dropdown menu)

• Can you think of another organization that works with disadvantaged teenagers who might also be able to nominate potential candidates? Please check the list of organizations we’ve included and let us know if we should add others!