Santander US has awarded St. Thomas University (STU) a $600,000 grant over two years to advance opportunities for first-generation students. The funding will help reduce financial barriers to higher education while also providing access to life-skills training designed to support long-term success.
The grant reflects Santander’s ongoing commitment to opening pathways to opportunity through the Santander Universities program and is part of a larger $25 million national commitment to education, employability, and entrepreneurship. Of that, $13 million is 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.
“Santander is walking the walk by supporting first-generation students, empowering them to earn degrees that transform their lives and uplift their families for generations. This $600,000 gift will ease financial burdens, open doors to life-skills training, and create lasting opportunities on our campus. We are deeply grateful for this gift and look forward to continuing our shared mission with Santander US to empower future leaders for generations to come,” said David A. Armstrong, J.D., St. Thomas University President.
On September 16, Santander US leaders joined STU faculty and first-generation students for a campus ceremony celebrating the $600,000 grant that will directly benefit these students and support their continued success.
“At Santander, we believe education is one of the most powerful drivers of opportunity. We’re proud to invest in St. Thomas University through our Santander Universities program, supporting first-generation students as they pursue their degrees, develop essential life skills, and build brighter futures for themselves and their families.”
Ronaldo Rondinelli
Head of Santander Universities
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.