Mountain Scholars program shifts financial management to CMC Foundation

October 4, 2026 - 18:37

The Mountain Scholars program, which provides support for first-generation college students in Summit County, will begin a new chapter this fall. The Colorado Mountain College Foundation is set to assume financial management responsibilities for the initiative, taking over from the previous administrative structure.

For years, the program has operated through the college's Breckenridge campus, offering scholarships, mentorship, and academic guidance to students who are the first in their families to pursue higher education. The transition to the foundation is expected to strengthen fundraising efforts and create a more sustainable financial model for the long term.

Officials involved with the program say the change will allow for greater flexibility in how resources are allocated. The foundation has experience managing donor contributions and endowments, which could open new avenues for growth. Students currently enrolled in the program will not see any interruption in services or funding.

Community leaders in Summit County have praised the move, noting that first-generation students often face unique barriers when navigating college. The program has become a vital pipeline for local students seeking degrees and certificates at Colorado Mountain College. With the foundation at the helm, supporters hope the initiative can expand its reach and assist more families in the coming years.