Engaging bright and committed students who will form the next generation of ethical leaders is central to Santa Clara University’s mission. The Johnson Scholars Program, funded by Maryellie and Rupert Johnson, H.D. ’14, vice chairman of the board at Franklin Templeton Investments, allows the University to recruit and retain exceptional students with a merit scholarship covering full tuition for four years.

Comprehensive and intellectually challenging, this program prepares graduates to make meaningful contributions toward a more just, humane, and sustainable world. It is designed to cultivate in students compassionate, intelligent, and empowered leadership that has distinguished a Santa Clara University education for more than 165 years.

A native of Colorado and valedictorian of her high school, Kendall Moore has always embraced her education. When it came time to choose a college, money was a significant factor. She considered affordable options, community colleges, and offers from other highly ranked institutions, but a visit to Santa Clara University set her on her path.

Kendall was invited to apply to the Johnson Scholars Program, and after an intensive interview process she received one of 10 full scholarships to attend Santa Clara.

“Without the Johnson Scholarship, I would not have been able to attend Santa Clara,” she says. Through mentorships, an engaged community, and financial support of internships, research, and studies abroad, the program allows exceptional students like Kendall to make more expansive and visionary life decisions than might otherwise be possible.

“The Johnson Scholars Program is full of amazing leaders,” she says, “and I can learn from them.”