The Chatfield Edge helps break down barriers preventing first-generation and underserved students from pursuing post-secondary education, whether college studies, technical, or skilled trades.

Finances are often a barrier to attaining education, but not always in the way you think. While federal and state financial aid sources may cover tuition and room and board, many other expenses can derail an earnest student’s plans. Things many of us take for granted.

Chatfield Scholar, Destiny, and David Hesson, Interim Executive Director

Our first Chatfield Scholar, recipient of the Austin E. Knowlton Memorial Scholarship, faced this challenge. Destiny was a commuter student at Chatfield College pursuing a degree in Early Childhood Education. We helped Destiny transfer from Chatfield to another local college, where she is pursuing a degree in Art Education. In addition, we helped her secure financing for her tuition, fees, and room and board.

But there are things financial aid doesn’t cover for a student moving out on her own for the first time – dorm room storage solutions, laundry and bathroom supplies, cleaning supplies, and basic school supplies.

Covering expenses like these is where The Chatfield Edge’s close-the-gap funding makes a difference. We were able to eliminate a barrier for Destiny and provide her with some of the essential items she needed to set up her new dorm room.

As former college administrators, we have worked with students for over 50 years. We know it doesn’t take much to throw a student off track from their education when so many other aspects of their life are challenging.

As a new non-profit organization, The Chatfield Edge, our most important role is to let these students know that they will never walk alone on their journey to a better life for themselves and their communities.

You can help us help more students like Destiny. Consider making a gift to the new The Chatfield Edge or giving your time and talents as a mentor.

“Strive to be faithful to that which God has called you.” – Saint Angela Merici