Winthrop’s LEAP Program Receives Grant from Leon Levine Foundation

The Leon Levine Foundation of Charlotte, N.C., has awarded Winthrop’s Learning Excellent Academic Practices (LEAP) Program a $50,000 grant to fund scholarships for LEAP participants.

Housed in Winthrop’s University College, LEAP is an academic support program that identifies, supports, and evaluates students before and during their first year at Winthrop. The program, created in the 1980s, offers intensive academic advising and faculty-led academic support to a select group of students in the freshman class. LEAP fosters academic excellence and helps students who may not be as prepared for the rigor of college-level academics work toward graduating with a bachelor’s degree. The program helps to provide key support for students whose academic preparation might interfere with their success at Winthrop. The program’s graduates have a record of great success in their college careers following participation in LEAP.

Gloria Jones, dean of University College, explained that the Levine Foundation grant will allow the LEAP Program to aid admitted students who have completed their freshman year and new freshmen.

“This money will enable us to assist both students who have successfully completed their freshman year and may be struggling financially as well as new freshmen whose financial difficulties might prevent them from attending Winthrop,” said Jones.

Named for its founder, the Leon Levine Foundation aims to create permanent, life-changing impact by investing in organizations with highly effective leadership, a track record of success, and a focus on sustainability. The foundation’s educational mission includes pursuing academic excellence and providing access for disadvantaged and motivated individuals.

Tom Lawrence, executive director of the Levine Foundation, said that the foundation was excited to partner with Winthrop to support LEAP, calling Winthrop “a strong organization with a successful commitment to a mission so close to the vision of our founder.”

For more information about the Leon Levine Foundation, visit the foundation’s website.

Posted 4/10/2012