Santander US has awarded Miami Dade College (MDC), one of the nation’s largest and most diverse educational institutions, a $600,000 grant over two years to fund core scholarship programs that expand access to higher education and advance entrepreneurship in the local community. The grant reflects Santander’s ongoing commitment to opening pathways to opportunity through the Santander Universities program.

“Miami Dade College is incredibly excited to partner with Santander US on this generous investment in our students,” said Madeline Pumariega, President of Miami Dade College. “Together, we will expand entrepreneurship immersion opportunities, support an emergency tuition fund, and establish a scholarship that empowers the next generation of leaders while fueling Miami’s growing economy.”

On September 3, leaders from Santander US joined MDC students, faculty, and trustees to celebrate the college’s 65th anniversary at its spirited “I Am MDC” event, hosted at the Wolfson Campus near Santander Bank’s Openbank branch at Miami Worldcenter.

The grant is part of a larger $25 million national commitment from Santander US to education, employability, and entrepreneurship. Of that, more than $10 million will be directed toward university grants and national scholarship funding. A centerpiece of this effort is the launch of Santander Open Scholarships, available through Santander Open Academy, a global online learning platform that provides 100% free educational content, upskilling resources, and career development tools to learners worldwide.

For nearly three decades, Santander has advanced prosperity around the globe by investing in education, employability, and entrepreneurship. The launch of these scholarship funds through the Santander Universities program in the U.S. builds on this legacy, ensuring more students have access to world-class resources and opportunities to thrive.

To apply or learn more about Open Scholarships, including eligibility and program details, click here.