EOP RSP History

diverse former foster youth college students from eop resilient scholars program

The EOP Milt & Debbie Valera Resilient Scholars Program at California State University, Northridge (CSUN) was first envisioned in 2008 as the Foster Youth Initiative, introduced by then EOP Director José Luis Vargas to unite campus resources and partners in support of EOP foster youth. It began as a network of liaisons across campus, from financial aid and housing to academic colleges, working collaboratively to address student needs. In 2009, the program became official and was renamed the EOP Resilient Scholars Program by its inaugural cohort of foster youth students. What started as an initiative grew into a comprehensive support network tailored to meet the unique needs of EOP Resilient Scholars.

Under the leadership of Jina Gonzalez, the program gained support from off-campus partners and generous donors, culminating in 2021 with a transformational endowment from philanthropists Milt and Debbie Valera, which expanded services to all former foster youth at CSUN. Today, the program continues its mission of empowerment and resilience as it celebrates years of growth and success. It is guided by dedicated staff who are often EOP RSP alumni and former foster youth themselves, providing authentic connection and mentorship to the next generation of scholars.

With continued community support, the EOP Milt & Debbie Valera Resilient Scholars Program can expand its impact even further. Those interested in helping transform the lives of former foster youth are invited to contribute and join in sustaining this legacy of resilience.