Why Great Jobs KC offers $50k scholarships to hundreds of students each year

Business Journals

17-06-2025

Nearly 40 years ago, one of Kansas City's most beloved figures, Ewing Marion Kauffman, returned to Westport Middle School and offered every eighth grader a full scholarship to the college of their choice.
'What's the catch?' a parent asked.
'Your child must graduate from high school,' Kauffman replied.
We've learned something essential from building on Kauffman's vision: The size of a scholarship can make all the difference. Today, the organization I lead and which has evolved from KC Scholars, Great Jobs KC, is proud to carry forward that legacy by awarding college scholarships worth $50,000 that can help cover most costs at many local universities. But just as important as the size of the gift is what surrounds it: the structure, support and community that help turn aspiration into achievement.
We're not alone in this work. Kansas City's higher education institutions, generous donors, businesses and civic organizations are all helping open doors for the next generation. Our goal is to make sure those doors don't just open, but also that students feel invited and supported all the way through.
Each scholar is paired with a dedicated Scholar Advocate from 11th grade through their first year post-graduation. These advocates help students select the right college, navigate financial aid, choose majors aligned with their career goals, and stay on track. Scholars also benefit from bridge programs and mentorship from ambassadors' support, because we know that a sense of belonging is one of the most critical factors in keeping students enrolled and engaged.
This works. Our college scholarship program achieves a 73% graduation rate, 2x higher than the national average. That's not just a statistic. It's a pipeline of homegrown talent ready to power our regional economy.
Too often, a family's joy at receiving a scholarship is quickly tempered by reality. In 2020, the average award was $7,923. Compare that to the $11,011 in average tuition and fees at in-state public colleges and far below the $43,505 annual price tag at private institutions. Getting part of a meal is good when you're hungry, but it's not sustenance.
For many students, piecing together enough aid to attend college remains a steep challenge. That's why when we surprised 100 scholars on Good Morning America with $5 million in scholarships in 2023, one parent said they wouldn't have to sell their car. Another said it meant not needing a second mortgage.
We're fortunate — thanks to our community support — to have the capacity to invest widely and deeply in each scholar we serve. Last month, we awarded 901 scholarships worth $50,000 each. Since 2016, the KC Scholars program has provided over $260 million in financial assistance through more than 5,000 scholarships.
As we've grown, we've seen how meaningful support can help students reach their full potential. Hajra, a University of Missouri-Kansas City nursing graduate, shared, 'You won't be alone; this program will walk with you, push you and celebrate you every step of the way. It's more than just scholarships — it's about building a future you didn't think was possible.'
Tanessa, now training to be a physician assistant, told us, 'KC Scholars truly changed my life. I'll be forever grateful.'
And Tim, a UMKC computer science graduate, said: 'I don't know if I could have made it through without the incredible help and support of everyone at Great Jobs KC.'
One of our scholars nearly missed his first day of college when his mother's car broke down. When we picked him up, everything he owned was stuffed in a pillowcase with a spare pair of sneakers over his shoulder. It was a powerful reminder that opportunity is about more than tuition. It's about transportation, basic necessities and human dignity. It is our donors' gifts that help provide these essentials to set students up to thrive — not just survive.
Our work is made possible by the strength of our community: local colleges that offer strong partnerships, businesses that open doors through internships and Kansas Citians who give generously and volunteer their time. This year, nearly 200 volunteers helped review applications. Next year, we hope to welcome 250 volunteer reviewers.
Yet for all this momentum, there are still more Kansas Citians who deserve a shot at college. This year, 882 additional scholars — scholars who had strong GPAs and personal statements — did not receive scholarships, leaving hundreds of dreams each year that we simply can't fund. That's why we're calling on donors who believe in building stronger communities to help us meet this growing demand and fund even more deserving children's futures.
Just as Kauffman recognized decades ago, it is still true that a college degree is a key to economic advancement for individuals, their families and our region. I am eager to carry the Kauffman legacy forward, and so is Great Jobs KC. I hope you are open to working alongside us to fuel the untapped brilliance available in Kansas City and turn it into a bonfire of prosperity.
Earl Martin Phalen, CEO of Great Jobs KC, is dedicated to transforming Kansas City's workforce. Great Jobs KC provides tuition-free career training, connecting over 5,000 individuals to high-demand industries. A collaborator with businesses and training partners, Great Jobs focuses on building a skilled, diverse pipeline to fuel economic growth.