This is a request for renewal of funding for our current scholarship platform NextGen Scholarship Manager - https://www.ngwebsolutions.com/scholarship-manager/
Our undergraduate and graduate students can now apply to nearly 100 different scholarship opportunities via an entirely online process. Our scholarships recognize strong academics, foster student research, and allow our students access to special opportunities such as internships and studying abroad. The total amount of college scholarships awarded annually has increased to nearly a million dollars, benefiting hundreds of students.
This is primarily a student-facing platform to search and apply for college scholarship opportunities. Faculty members and other recommenders are able to seamlessly offer letters of support for applicants. Scholarship Committee members are able to review materials online versus paper applications. The Scholarship Office/Fin Aid Office staff will be responsible for the day-to-day operation of the platform.
Web-based. The software is incorporated into our website and current Scholarships page, via SSO login. Can also be connected to social media.
The application offers an entirely online process for students, faculty/recommenders, and committee members. It provides around-the-clock access to apply, which is extremely important for fully online students and those who may be exploring scholarship opportunities after 5pm.
As a web-based platform, it is therefore "paperless” which works well for Enrollment Management/Financial Aid, reducing traffic to Jay Express & BMW Building. Being "green" also helps w space and records retention.
Web-based. Vendor provides maintenance and support. There is some minimal impact on our DoIT team regarding data file transfers.
Scholarship Coordinator, Financial Aid
The scholarship management software platform touches on all of the goals of the 2025 strategic plan. Scholarships both afford access and recognize students who are interested in study abroad, experiential learning, and pursuing STEM-related programs (Goals 1, 2). By supporting an online system, scholarships uphold our commitment to diversity, equity, inclusion (and accessibility). Students of all backgrounds can apply on their time, removing the barriers of time and location. There is no bias for on-campus versus online students. Most importantly, access to scholarships are a tool in the students' aid arsenals to graduate as close to debt-free as possible (Goal 3). Finally (Goal 4), an online platform offers operational efficiencies and substantial cost savings (versus the need for staffing, paper, etc.). It is also entirely "green," supporting our efforts to be more sustainable and reduce the college's carbon footprint.