A multi-year investment of more than $24 million is supporting six leading Orange County colleges

A multi-year investment of more than $24 million is supporting six leading Orange County colleges as they expand academic infrastructure, strengthen STEM and workforce pathways, and increase transfer and degree-completion rates for students across the region.

This investment supports:

• Workforce development programs at Golden West College, Orange Coast College, and Saddleback College, including skills academies, paid internships, and expansion of high-demand fields such as nursing.

• Stronger STEM transfer pipelines at Fullerton College, Irvine Valley College, Orange Coast College, and California State University, Fullerton through expanded research access, peer mentorship, supplemental instruction, and advising.

• The launch of the Orange County STEM Regional Collaboration, a $4 million initiative designed to reduce barriers, strengthen pathways, and increase hands-on learning opportunities for students pursuing STEM degrees.

This work reflects a shared commitment to education as a catalyst for community well-being and economic mobility. By partnering with local colleges, the Samueli Foundation helps expand access to opportunity and reinforces Orange County’s workforce pipeline.