In order to encourage black and Latino students to pursue studies in film, the George Lucas Foundation recently donated a multi-million dollar school endowment to USC.
The $10 million endowment for students of color is meant to encourage recruitment specifically from youth in underprivileged communities. Beginning in the fall of 2016, chosen undergraduate and graduate film students will have male students recognized as'George Lucas Scholars' and female students as 'Mellody Hobson Scholars,' (a reference to Lucas' wife.)
As a USC alumni himself, Lucas remarks: "Hispanic and African-American storytellers are underrepresented in the entertainment industry. It is Mellody’s and my privilege to provide this assistance to qualified students who want to contribute their unique experience and talent to telling their stories." This donation is the largest to be made for the support of students in USC's whole history.
Student-Supporting Donations
The George Lucas Foundation Gave USC a $10 Million School Endowment
Trend Themes
1. Diversity in Film - The George Lucas Foundation's donation to USC aims to encourage studies in film among black and Latino students, creating opportunities for underrepresented voices in the industry.
2. Scholarship Endowments - Endowments for students of color, like that given to USC by the George Lucas Foundation, create greater access and equity in higher education, supporting future generations of leaders to come.
3. Underprivileged Youth Education - Donations like the $10 million endowment from the George Lucas Foundation encourage underprivileged youth to pursue fields like film, promoting equal opportunity and education for all.
Industry Implications
1. Film Industry - The donation from the George Lucas Foundation to USC aims to address underrepresentation in the entertainment industry, creating opportunities and showcasing diverse perspectives.
2. Education Industry - Endowments like the one given to USC by the George Lucas Foundation promote equity in higher education, supporting the next generation of diverse, talented leaders.
3. Philanthropy Industry - Philanthropic donations like that from the George Lucas Foundation can create transformative change and impact in education, promoting greater access and equal opportunity for underrepresented groups.