Advancing Knowledge. Expanding Opportunity.

Empower the Next Generation of Thinkers and Leaders

The Grad Care Fund at Southern Connecticut State University’s School of Graduate and Professional Studies provides essential support for graduate students throughout their academic journey. This growing fund helps students overcome unexpected challenges, while also empowering their success with academic support and resources, conference travel grants, wellness resources, professional development, scholarships, and fellowships. Whether responding to immediate needs or supporting long-term academic goals, the Grad Care Fund reflects our community’s shared commitment to making graduate education more accessible, equitable, and impactful – one student at a time.

A graduate smiling at the camera in their regalia

Why Your Support Matters

Your gift to the School of Graduate and Professional Studies helps our graduate students thrive by supporting:

Graduate Research and Learning

Covers the cost of essential academic needs such as tutoring, research materials, software, and thesis/dissertation printing to ensure students have the tools to succeed in their programs.

Community Building and Belonging

Funds social events, affinity groups, wellness workshops, and peer engagement programs that foster connection, inclusion, and a strong sense of community among graduate students and alumni alike.

Scholarships and Fellowships

Supports graduate students—including first-generation and underrepresented scholars—through merit- and need-based scholarships, competitive fellowships, and recognition programs such as the Graduate Studies Scholarship (GSS), Bridging the Dream Scholarship, PEO Program for Continuing Education, and the Annual Graduate Student & Faculty Excellence Awards honoring outstanding achievement across the graduate community.

Professional Development and Conference Support

Provides funding for travel, registration, and research presentation opportunities so graduate students can attend conferences, share their work, and expand their professional networks including supporting mentoring programs and alumni panels for networking and career insight.