History – Scholarships
The mission of UFC includes fundraising initiatives that support an endowed scholarship at UC Merced. When UFC was founded, then-Chancellor Steve Kang and his wife, Mia, provided the initial funding, establishing the University Friends Circle Scholarship Fund. This fund has continued to grow from generous gifts and fundraising events. From 2010 through 2025, $160,000 in scholarships has been provided to 50 recipients.
Each February, eligible UC Merced students are invited to apply for the scholarship, and recipients are chosen by a volunteer committee of UFC members. Because the endowment has grown significantly, UFC is able to offer an increasing number of scholarships in both quantity and value. Recipients are recognized at the annual Scholarship and Awards Reception each May.
Awards
University Friends Circle also honors campus student organizations with the Community Service Award. Student clubs that engage in significant community service projects on and off campus are encouraged to apply for the annual $1,000 award. These awards are announced at the UC Merced Student Leadership Awards Ceremony, and the winning groups' leadership is invited to attend the UFC Annual Scholarship and Awards Reception in the spring. Through 2025, $25,000 has been provided in awards to 17 student organizations.
Process
Each spring, the UFC Scholarship and Awards Committee partners with UC Merced staff to solicit applications, select recipients, and disperse the awards.
The Committee carefully sets criteria, evaluates applications, conducts interviews, and selects recipients for both the Scholarship and the Award. Recipients selected exhibit leadership skills to organize meaningful service to others, demonstrate an active and ongoing commitment to the Merced community, and have had a significant impact in the community as a result of a key project.
Make a contribution to the UFC Endowed Scholarship Fund
Make a contribution to the Student Impact Fund
Prior Scholarship and Award Recipients
Since 2010, University Friends Circle has recognized the following UC Merced students and organizations:
2025 Award Winners
Community Service Organization Award:
- La Familia
- Bobcat Community Builders
- Tiny Health Tales
Distinguished Volunteer Scholarship – 6 Recipients:
- Evan Martin
- Kshitij Tamang
- AJ Heard
- Kam Owens
- Manjot Cheema
- Joey Alvarez
List of all Prior Award Winners
