The D-Backs and Avnet make a significant impact to 14 scholars from St. Vincent de Paul

The Arizona Diamondbacks and Avnet, an official partner, presented $250,000 in college STEM scholarships to 14 students on May 5, in a pre-game ceremony at Chase Field.

The scholars were selected from St. Vincent de Paul's One at a Time Scholars Program, which supports first-generation college students or those who face barriers to college entry. They were also given custom jerseys, computers, headphones, backpacks, and gift cards for school supplies.

The D-backs Avnet STEM Scholars program, developed this year, will expand opportunities for low-income and first-generation students to pursue a college degree in STEM fields. The program will provide mentor support for individual scholars through St. Vincent de Paul and on-campus mentors at the scholar's selected school. The Avnet Scholars Program is committed to providing more first-generation Arizona students access to a high-quality, STEM-focused college education.

The Avnet Scholars program is committed to more than $1 million over four years. D-backs President, CEO & General Partner Derrick Hall emphasized the importance of education in ensuring a bright future for all. Avnet CEO Phil Gallagher also spoke about the heart of their partnership with the Arizona Diamondbacks, which is community giving.

“It means a tremendous amount. We’re honored to be part of the program,” Avnet CEO Phil Gallagher said. “So between the Diamondbacks, St. Vincent de Paul and Avnet we think we have a great value proposition to the kids and the community,” he added. Since 1997, the Arizona Diamondbacks Foundation has donated $80 million in charitable contributions to the Arizona community. St. Vincent de Paul’s One-at-a-Time Scholarship Program has been driving systemic change for over 20 years by helping transform the lives of first-generation college students with comprehensive support for them.

The program provides not only financial assistance but also a robust support system that helps scholars overcome the unique barriers that first-generation students face.SVP's Scholarship Program has a comprehensive approach that focuses on supporting scholars not just to complete their studies, but also to guide them towards achieving career success. The program has enrolled scholars in various in-state universities such as ASU, UofA, NAU, and Maricopa County Community Colleges.