Harvey Mudd College Partners with Thrive Scholars to Bridge the Higher Ed Gap

Harvey Mudd College has joined the Thrive Scholars College Collaborative, a network of 12 esteemed college partners committed to fostering success for diverse and talented students.

This collaboration brings together leading institutions to ensure Scholars excel in rigorous academic environments and build meaningful career pathways. Other participating schools are Amherst College, Bowdoin College, Brown University, University of Chicago, Cornell University, Georgia Institute of Technology, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Northwestern University, University of Pennsylvania, Washington University in St. Louis and Williams College.

“Our college partners are essential allies in creating environments where students from underrepresented communities can thrive,” said Raynise Smith, chief program officer of Thrive Scholars, a national nonprofit with a 20+ year track record of helping high-achieving students from underrepresented communities access top colleges and launch careers that drive economic mobility. “These institutions are not just supporters; they are champions of student potential, working with us to bridge opportunity gaps and unlock pathways to success.”

In 2024, Thrive Scholars served over 1,448 students, with an average high school GPA of 3.91 and 83% being first-generation college-goers from families averaging an annual income of $45,000. Thrive Scholars’ College Success outcomes boast an 81% STEM persistence rate compared to 56% among all students at top colleges.

Through this collaborative effort, Harvey Mudd and Thrive Scholars are empowering students to realize their full potential and contribute to dynamic campus communities. Members of the Thrive Scholars College Collaborative are deeply attuned to both the strengths and challenges faced by the students in Thrive Scholars’ program, and they are dedicated to providing the resources, access and support necessary for success in rigorous academic environments and a sense of belonging on their prestigious campuses.