Chapman University in Irvine, California, has announced a $1 million endowment gift in support of its Student Hardship Assistance Fund, which provides flexible financial support to those facing immediate and unexpected hardship.

The gift from Women of Chapman, a group of philanthropic-minded women dedicated to supporting the school, will enable the fund to help cover expenses related to housing, food, transportation, technology, medical bills, and getting home during a family crisis. The first two years of the COVID-19 pandemic were particularly difficult for many students and their families; the fund continues to support 20 to 30 students each year with grants ranging from a few hundred dollars to a few thousand.

“Thanks to the generosity of Chapman family and friends, every year we are able to use the Student Hardship Assistance Fund to support dozens of students facing unexpected financial challenges,” said Jerry Price, dean of students and vice president for student affairs. “This wonderful gift from the Women of Chapman will ensure that we will always be able to serve those students who need us most.”

(Photo credit: Tony Lattimore)