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Promise Scholars Foster Youth Support Program

“…we have a moral responsibility to prepare young people leaving foster care for their journey into adulthood. Our communities must commit themselves to a common goal of helping these young people to become whole adults who can fulfill their potential and build bright and promising futures."
 Former President Jimmy Carter

Mission

Promise Scholars is committed to the success of students who are or were in foster care to complete their educational goals. Promise Scholars offers a sense of community by providing academic, financial, social, and spiritual support and a place where students can flourish 

Eligibility and Application

Any student attending Fresno Pacific University who is currently or has been in foster care may be eligible. If you would like to apply to be part of the Promise Scholars community and get regular communication about our scholarships, services, and events, simply complete this short application.

Program Benefits

  • Dedicated program and campus staff
  • Scholarship Opportunities
  • Academic advising
  • Access to emergency funds
  • Program events & activities
  • Access to year-round housing & food
  • Referrals to campus & community resources
  • Access to counseling services 

Support Team

Promise Scholars has a team to support your educational journey while at Fresno Pacific University. Your support team consists of liaisons across all campuses who are ready to assist you with a wide range of services. Please feel free to reach out to any of the Promise Scholars support team with questions or concerns. We are here to help you succeed!

All Campuses
Photo of Cyinna Drotos

Cyinna Drotos – Program Coordinator

Assistant Director of Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion
cyinna.drotos@fresno.edu
(559)453-2074

 

 

Photo of Mariah Cushing

Mariah Cushing, Ph.D. - Staff Mentor

*Former Foster Youth
Program Director, Lilly Pathways &
Admin Assist to the Dean/VP of Seminary
mariah.cushing@fresno.edu
(559)453-7133

 

Photo of Kizzy Lopez

Kizzy Lopez, Ed.D. - Faculty Mentor

*Former Foster Youth
Assistant Professor, Social Work
kizzy.lopez@fresno.edu
(559)453-7844

 

Main Campus
Photo of Marcela Gonzalez

Marcela Gonzalez – Financial Aid

Student Financial Services Advisor
marcela.gonzalez@fresno.edu
(559)453-5519

 

 

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Brianna Martinez – Academic Success

Student Success & Equity Specialist
brianna.martinez@fresno.edu
(559)453-3646



 

Photo of Taylor Starks

Taylor Starks – Spiritual Formation & Sunbird Food Pantry

Assistant Director of Spiritual Formation
taylor.starks@fresno.edu
(559)453-5547

 

 

Photo of Corrie Hawes

Corrie Hawes – Career Development

Career Counselor
corrie.hawes@fresno.edu
(559)453-7158

 

 

Photo of Tyjuan Gibson

Tyjuan Gibson – On-campus Housing

Residence Director
tyjuan.gibson@fresno.edu
(559)453-5571

 

 

Regional Campuses

Visalia

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Jared McCoy

Assistant Director for Operations, Visalia
jared.mccoy@fresno.edu
(559)302-4109

 

Bakersfield

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Misty Garcia

Assistant Director for Operations, Outreach, & Recruitment
misty.garcia@fresno.edu
(661)617-4512


 

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Angelica Garcia-Maldonado

Operations, Outreach, & Recruitment Specialist
angelica.garcia@fresno.edu
(661)617-4513

 

Resources

Campus Resources
Scholarships and Financial Assistance for College
Other Resources