Endow Venture Courses that Encourage College Exploration
In 2022, the Lindquist College of Arts & Humanities relaunched WSU’s Venture Course in the Humanities in partnership with Utah Humanities. Devised for low- income adults who have not attended college, it introduces them to subjects like philosophy, literature and critical thinking in classes taught by university faculty at WSU’s Community Education Center in central Ogden. Community leaders contribute to the curriculum, sharing their expertise and facilitating community engagement.
The Venture Course for adults is free and also covers costs for transportation, course fees and materials, food and childcare. The ultimate goal is to show students the incredible opportunities that higher education provides, and that they can succeed there.
In addition, the Lindquist College partnered with Utah Humanities to create a course at Ogden High School, providing a college-level academic experience for high school students who will be first-generation college applicants.
The program has been funded by a one-time internal grant and small donations, and the Lindquist College and Utah Humanities have supplemented the budget. But the program cannot be sustained without additional funding, which pays for a program coordinator, instructors and peer mentors, along with student support resources.
Approximate Annual Costs
Adult Program
$60,000 per year, or $2,400 per student
High School Program
$20,000 per year, or $800 per student
With a $3 million endowment from private gifts, the future of the Venture Program would be secure, and the programs could focus on recruitment and retention of students, curriculum development and possible expansion beyond the current 25 students in each course. Ultimately, we would like to open a second high school course at Ben Lomond High School and a second Venture course at another WSU location.
Wildcat Spotlight
“Venture was like a family. We all knew it was just the start of a journey, and we all would need some type of assistance. Everyone collectively helped and grew as a class.”
“In my life, I am now more determined, goal oriented, and I know myself a lot more due to this course. I have found out what I am capable of ... and the world better watch out!”
– Kalijah Robinson, 2023 Venture graduate and current WSU student
Support Venture Course by making a gift today.
To learn more about endowing the Venture program, contact a Weber State University development director.