Diamond scholars program

The project will focus on improving success rates — from recruiting to retention and graduation — for students who were previously in the foster care system. A group will be selected each year for the Scholars program, which includes the opportunity to live together in a living and learning community at Cougar Village.

The expanded services, including enhanced advising and mentoring, will be available to all UH students who have been in the foster care system. Andrea Diamond said she and her husband ask only that Diamond Family Scholars pay it forward in the future. Between 60 and UH students self-identify as graduates of the foster care system every year. The group has a current four-year graduation rate of 37 percent; the program has targeted a graduation rate of 60 percent after the first four years, with a long-term goal of 80 percent.

The Diamond endowment will cover operational support, in addition to direct financial support, Walker noted, ensuring the University can offer more intensive services to those who need it. That, he said, could make a real difference in ensuring success — and higher graduation rates — for this group of students. Guidelines for recommendation letters for the program can be found here.

All applicants should share this information with proposed mentors. Advice from former faculty mentors for the Diamond Research Scholars program can be found here. Students should review the tips for preparing a strong application here and then access the application using the link below.

Applicants will typically be notified of their status by mid-March. Diamond Research Scholars application. Students are expected to present their project at various events both formal and informal throughout the year. If you have questions, please email: DiamondResearchScholars temple.

Skip to main content. Search Site or Temple University Search this site.