Fund:

Wilmer and Velma Johnson Endowed Student Support Fund for Ethnic Studies

Department:

Ethnic Studies Dept D01027

Purpose:

Undergraduate Student Support

History and Purpose:
Michael E. Johnson is a proud UC Riverside alumnus. He received his bachelor of arts degree in ethnic studies in 1994. Michael grew up in the Riverside area and attended Perris High School. Originally a physics major then a pre-business major, Michael found his way to ethnic studies after a quarter of sampling classes in various disciplines. He enjoyed the professors in ethnic studies and found a home in the department. Michael is currently the Managing Partner, Co-Chief Investment Offices and Head of Research at Gurtin Fixed Income. He wishes to establish this fund in honor of his parents, Wilmer and Velma Johnson, who made countless sacrifices to ensure that Michael had a college education. Michael's parents did not have the opportunity to receive a college education and were adamant about Michael being the first in his family to have a college degree. In honor of their sacrifices and as a gesture of his love and gratitude, Michael is establishing the Wilmer and Velma Johnson Endowed Student Support Fund for Ethnic Studies. This fund is a fitting legacy to two devoted parents who were unflagging supporters of their son's academic endeavors.

This Fund shall be used to provide undergraduate student support to undergraduate students in the department of ethnic studies.

Selection and Guidelines:
Students going into their sophomore, junior or senior year who intend to major in ethnic studies may apply for this competitive award. The donor has requested that preference should be given to students who (1) reside in the Inland Empire including the Coachella Valley and (2) students with financial need.

The donor also understands that there may be situations when a candidate emerges who is (1) a markedly better candidate as compared to the rest of the applicant pool and (2) shows a real promise in the field of ethnic studies. In these situations, the donor has requested that preference be given to those candidates despite their financial need or geographical residence.

Under the direction of the Chair of the Department of Ethnic Studies, student recipients will be selected based on a competitive essay application. In years when there is no candidate who meets the criteria, awards will be held until the following year.



Request for Information:

Dylan Rodriguez
Ethnic Studies Chair