The University of Guam and the UOG Endowment Foundation awarded $40,000 in Last Mile Scholarships in 2025, citing record donor support for students nearing graduation.
The Last Mile Scholarship, established in 2019 after a survey identified financial hardship as a leading reason students leave college, assists students within 30 credits of graduation. University officials said the program helps remove final financial barriers that can prevent degree completion.
“With so many students only a few credits away from a degree, a small investment can have a life-changing return,” UOG President Anita Borja Enriquez said. “This program is about removing that last financial barrier.”
In 2025, donor contributions resulted in $40,000 awarded to students and more than $125,000 raised in scholarships and endowed funds for future recipients. Donors may contribute to the general fund or establish named scholarships under the Last Mile banner.
Among contributors, local businessman Tom Tajalle funded seven $500 Brother Tom Last Mile Scholarships through a $3,500 gift. Six Guam senators collectively donated $3,000 during the Spring 2025 semester. UOG Vice President Emerita Helen Whippy established the Whippy Family Last Mile Scholarship, awarding $500 each to three students. Mobil Oil Guam contributed $7,500 to create a STEM-focused scholarship.
The largest donation came in October from local realtor Patricia Feore, who gave $100,000 to endow the Single Parents & Children of Single Parents Scholarship. She also provided $10,000 to fund two $5,000 awards in 2025 for students in Education, Agriculture and Life Sciences, and Health Science.
“As a single parent myself, I know the challenges,” Feore said, adding that education provides opportunity and a better life.
University officials said the program has helped dozens of students complete degrees and enter Guam’s workforce, strengthening the island’s talent pool and supporting regional businesses.