Washington College Grant

Marc-Antony Johnson
Marc-Antony Johnson 1440 1920 College Promise Coalition

“Financial aid doesn’t just fund an education. It builds opportunity, and that benefits all of us.”

Marc-Antony Johnson is a Washington College Grant recipient, currently attending the University of Washington Tacoma as part of the Class of 2029. He transferred from Evergreen State College to pursue law and is already active in student groups focused on activism and lobbying at the State Capitol.

Can you tell me a little about your journey to the University of Washington Tacoma?

I transferred from Evergreen State College to UW Tacoma with a clear purpose: to study law. UW Tacoma was the right choice for me, it is credible, close to home, affordable compared to other options, and deeply connected to local communities of color. I knew it was where I could grow both as a student and as an advocate.

What role has financial aid played in making your education possible?

Honestly, I would not be here without financial aid. I live in a household of seven family members, and four of us, myself included, have to work just to make ends meet. Even with that, the cost of college would be out of reach if I did not have the Washington College Grant, scholarships, and other aid. Without it, I would be pressured into working full-time to help my family stay afloat, and I would likely have to step away from school.

Beyond academics, how have you been involved on campus and in the community?

I have already been part of two student groups focused on activism and lobbying at the State Capitol. Those experiences have really shaped my perspective, and I want to carry them forward as I continue my studies.

Looking ahead, what are your long-term goals?

My ultimate goal is to attend law school. But the cost of graduate education is overwhelming. If I had to take on heavy debt just to finish my undergraduate degree, law school would be impossible for me. That is why financial aid is so important.

Why do you believe financial aid matters for Washington students as a whole?

Financial aid is not just about me, it’s about all students in Washington, about our families, our communities, and the state as a whole. Slashing it would hurt everyone. If we want a future where students can thrive, build careers, and give back, we have to keep those doors open. Financial aid does not just fund an education. It builds opportunity, and that benefits all of us.

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Zari Warden
Zari Warden 755 790 College Promise Coalition

“Without the Washington College Grant, I would’ve worked more hours outside of work-study and felt more financially insecure. I most likely would have taken out an additional loan, which would’ve been an additional financial hardship. I’m lucky to have not experienced that!”

Zari Warden is a Washington Grant recipient, currently attending Pacific Lutheran University and studying Communication (Film and Media) and Gender, Sexuality, and Race Studies, and minoring in music. In this Q&A, she shares the details of her journey to higher education.

Can you introduce yourself and share what you’re studying?

My name is Zari Warden. I attend Pacific Lutheran University. I study Communication (Film and Media) and Gender, Sexuality, and Race Studies. I am also minoring in music.

What are your goals after graduation?

My main career goal after college is to pursue marketing and communications work for nonprofit organizations. My other goals include making and performing my original songs and working on a podcast series I started for my senior capstone.

Why did you decide to go to college?

I initially considered making music full-time, but I didn’t have the resources. So, I applied to various colleges and chose PLU because of my financial aid package. I’m glad I went because I found my passion for content creation and active advocacy work. I learned about my and others’ various identities and communities and gained a new perspective on how I want to live.

What challenges have you faced in college?

The most significant challenge I faced was learning how to prioritize myself, my needs, and the people I wanted in my life. PLU’s counseling center helped me get on track to find a full-time therapist. Also, taking the ideals from my Gender, Sexuality, and Race classes, such as rest being resistance, finding pleasure, and building meaningful relationships, helped me combat the urge to partake in grind culture, unrealistic expectations, and harmful interactions.

When did you first learn about the Washington College Grant? How did you feel when you found out you qualified?

I hadn’t heard about the Washington College Grant until I read my financial aid package from PLU. All I knew then was that I received additional support because of my family income and that the state helped me, but I didn’t have any other details. Nonetheless, the grant saved me SO much money these past four years. When I learned I qualified, my reaction was, “Great, I won’t be in as much student loan debt!” And that goes for all of my financial aid from the state and federal levels. That financial support lifted a massive weight off my shoulders.

Would you have gone to college without financial aid?

My parents expected me to attend college, whether I received financial aid or not. And I didn’t have any other plans. However, the grant alleviated the stress of how much I would’ve had to pay out of pocket or take out in private loans in addition to my federal loans.

What would college have looked like without the WA Grant

Without the Washington College Grant, I would’ve worked more hours outside of work-study and felt more financially insecure. I most likely would have taken out an additional loan, which would’ve been an additional financial hardship. I’m lucky to have not experienced that!

What do you wish more students knew about financial aid?

I wish more students had more education about financial aid, such as applying for FAFSA. Many underprivileged students don’t know how or have the resources to learn how to apply. I was lucky my mom could help me fill it out, but not everyone has parents or family members who can assist with that process.

What’s your advice for students applying to college?

My advice is to apply, even if it seems scary or overwhelming! If you need resources or assistance, go to someone you trust and ask where or who you can go to for help.

What are you most excited about post-graduation?

I’m most excited to continue impacting the community using the skills and resources I’ve discovered and which I carry with me. I’ve grown a lot in the past four years and learned about relationships between myself and others. I can’t wait to take everything with me as I continue my professional and personal journeys.

How do you hope to use your education in the future?

I aspire to use my education to help people join in solidarity, unity, and communal action. I also hope my education will strengthen my connections with my family, friends, workplace, and community.

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Colton Nussbaum
Colton Nussbaum 327 330 College Promise Coalition

“Receiving the Washington College Grant changed the question from ‘Can I afford higher education?’ to ‘What school do I want to go to?’”

Colton Nussbaum, a Washington Grant recipient currently attending Whitworth University and studying business management and minoring in music, discusses his journey to higher education in this Q&A!

Tell us a bit about yourself!

My name is Colton Nussbaum, and I go to Whitworth University in Spokane, Washington. I’m a senior, studying business management and minoring in music. After college, I hope to find work in the music business. I want to work with others, building teams to accomplish projects that support an industry that fuels my passion. I have a passion for music and creativity but want to use my business degree for work.

What inspired you to pursue college? Any challenges along the way?

I decided to pursue higher education because after high school, I knew I had more potential to learn. Also, coming from a very small town, I became filled with the urge to get out and see more of the world.

One challenge I faced early on was switching my major. I completed my freshman year as a music major, but by the end of the year, I found myself burnt out. The following summer, I had to make the choice to switch away from what I thought I’d major in. I ended up with an advisor in each discipline, both of whom helped me navigate this decision. Thankfully, I was able to switch to business without complications and take a minor in music.

Are there any classes, programs, or activities that have helped you figure out your path?

At Whitworth, I’ve been president of pep band for two years and vice president for one. My involvement in pep band provides the opportunity to pursue music, even if not a major. The band has also allowed me to find my passion for leading and inspiring others.

You’re a recipient of the Washington College Grant (WA Grant). How did you first hear about it?

I was told about the Washington College Grant when I was in late high school and exploring college as my next step. My high school advisor was helpful, informing me of options and available state assistance. When I discovered the amount of aid I would receive from the Washington College Grant, I was remarkably grateful. I realized that college was really something I could do without excessive financial worry. Above all, I felt inspired and supported to keep learning!

How has receiving the WA Grant impacted your ability to pursue college or training?

Receiving the Washington College Grant changed the question from “Can I afford higher education?” to “What school do I want to go to?” It has allowed me to self-fund my education with part-time work and reduce my overall debt. With the tuition support, I was also able to afford unique opportunities. For example, my junior year, as part of the Wind Symphony, I went on tour to Thailand. Experiencing Asian culture has been impactful for my overall growth and college experience.

Had I not received the WA Grant, I would be much more worried about my student loans than my educational journey—that is if I had attended college at all.

What do you wish more students knew about the WA Grant or financial aid in general?

Washington students should take financial aid seriously. Our state is generous in providing programs, but the work is on you to identify, understand, and apply to these programs. Even if you are unsure about attending college, you should apply for financial aid. It may take financial hardship out of your already big choice about pursuing higher education.

What are you most excited about for your future?

As I approach graduation this spring, I am very excited for change. I’ve kept myself busy in my undergrad and am ready to change the pace to working life.

How do you hope your education will help you make a difference—in your family, community, or field?

My education has prepared me to live out the Whitworth Mission to “honor God, follow Christ, and serve humanity.” Within the diversity at Whitworth, I’ve been able to explore faith in both an individual and a business realm. Inspiring others and building togetherness is what I strive to do in my future. Thanks to Whitworth and the funding that makes it possible, I believe I’m nearly ready to do so!

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Rodrigo Ortiz Mendoza
Rodrigo Ortiz Mendoza 1280 1920 College Promise Coalition

“Be sure to apply for FAFSA. Just apply—it doesn’t hurt, and you never know what you might qualify for.”

Rodrigo Ortiz Mendoza, a Washington Grant recipient currently attending Western Washington University and pursuing a bachelor’s degree in business with a concentration in Management Information Systems, discusses his journey to higher education in this Q&A!

Can you tell us a little about yourself and why you decided to go to college?

My name is Rodrigo Ortiz Mendoza, and I’m currently attending Western Washington University, pursuing a Bachelor’s degree in Business with a concentration in Management Information Systems. I was born in Guatemala, where education, especially in the small town where I grew up, wasn’t the best. When I was around six years old, my family moved to the United States—a decision that changed our lives forever.

What inspired you to pursue higher education?

My dad always wanted to pursue higher education but couldn’t because he needed to work to support our family. We moved back and forth between Guatemala and the U.S., which made it impossible for him to go to school without sacrificing work. Despite this, my parents always encouraged my siblings and me to focus on school. That encouragement motivated me to study and work hard all the way through high school. I decided to go to college because I want a better future for myself.

What challenges did you face when deciding to go to college?

By my senior year of high school, I realized I had no idea where I wanted to go to college. I was overwhelmed by the cost and even considered not going at all. Coming from a low-income family, we simply didn’t have enough to cover the expenses of sending me and my sister to college without taking on thousands of dollars in loans. I was close to giving up on college and just working full-time, but I knew if I went down that route, I might never return to school.

What changed your mind and made college possible for you?

Thankfully, my high school counselor at Blaine introduced me to financial aid and scholarships. Before that, I didn’t know resources like FAFSA and scholarships even existed. Once I learned about them, I applied to FAFSA, the Washington State Opportunity Scholarship (WSOS), and the WAVE scholarship—and I got them! Thanks to these programs and other scholarships, I’m able to attend college without the burden of overwhelming loans.

Have you had any impactful experiences during college?

Absolutely. I took on a work-study position, which has been an incredible learning experience. Last year, I also worked in an AmeriCorps position at my school and discovered my passion for helping people. These opportunities have shaped my career goals and reinforced my commitment to giving back.

What advice would you give to students considering college?

My biggest advice is to give it your all in high school and even in middle school. Your hard work will pay off—literally! Scholarships are often tied to good grades, and they can make a huge difference in your ability to attend college. Also, be sure to apply for FAFSA. Just apply—it doesn’t hurt, and you never know what you might qualify for. Plus, many scholarships require a FAFSA application as part of the process.

You currently work directly with students. How has that shaped your perspective?

In 2024, I was hired by Futures NW, where I help others navigate the FAFSA application process. It’s an amazing opportunity to guide students and families who might feel uncertain or skeptical about how FAFSA works. Through my story, I can show them that even if you don’t come from a lot of money, FAFSA can open doors you never thought possible.

How do you help students overcome FAFSA challenges?

The FAFSA process can be overwhelming and confusing, which leads some people to give up entirely. Despite its challenges, FAFSA is a game-changer. With my growing knowledge, I help students and families navigate the process, making it easier and less intimidating. It’s incredibly rewarding to know I can make a difference in their lives.

Is there anything else you’d like to share?

I want to thank Futures NW for giving me the opportunity to help others and for opening a new path in my life. I’m grateful to everyone who has supported me on my journey, and I hope my story inspires others to pursue their dreams through education.

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Seattle Times: WA students hit financial aid milestone
Seattle Times: WA students hit financial aid milestone 768 522 College Promise Coalition

In a Time of Uncertainty, Washington Students Need Steadfast Support
In a Time of Uncertainty, Washington Students Need Steadfast Support 600 600 College Promise Coalition

NEWSLETTER

In a Time of Uncertainty, Washington Students Need Steadfast Support

November 13, 2025

Tamariya

The 2025 legislative session in Olympia is fast approaching, and the stakes for Washington students have rarely been higher.

As our state begins important budget conversations following significant funding cuts to higher education last session, the outlook from the federal government is growing more uncertain. If federal support falters, state aid becomes even more critical.

That is why protecting the Washington College Grant (WA Grant), one of the most generous financial aid programs in the country, must remain a top priority. The WA Grant is transforming access to higher education, giving students across Washington the resources they need to pursue their dreams and strengthen our shared future.

During the last legislative session, lawmakers made substantial cuts to higher education, including reductions that affected students receiving the WA Grant. Postsecondary education in Washington cannot absorb any additional cuts without risking student progress and long-term workforce goals.

Washington’s Bright Future and a Growing Challenge

Washington’s economy is expected to see more than 1.5 million job openings by 2032, with three out of four requiring a post-high school credential such as a degree, apprenticeship, or industry-aligned certificate. These opportunities reflect a thriving state economy that needs skilled workers more than ever.

But despite positive trends in enrollment among students receiving need-based aid, overall credential attainment remains too low. Only 40% of Washington high school students are projected to complete a credential by the time they are 26, leaving a projected shortfall of nearly 600,000 skilled workers by the end of the decade.

This gap underscores why the WA Grant is indispensable. It ensures that the door to opportunity stays open, particularly for students from low-income families, first-generation students, and communities of color.

Students at the Center

Behind every data point are real students whose lives are changed by access to financial aid. For Tamariya, pursuing higher education has been a journey of perseverance and purpose. After earning her Associate of Applied Science degree, she continued on to North Seattle College, where she is now enrolled in the Early Childhood Education Bachelor of Applied Science (BAS) program. Her goal is to become an early childhood educator and, eventually, take on a leadership role that helps shape classrooms that nurture and support young learners.

Tamariya was inspired to pursue college because she has always had a passion for working with children and wanted to make a difference in their lives. “I knew education would give me the knowledge and tools to turn that passion into a career,” she said. Balancing school, work, and personal responsibilities has been challenging, but she credits the support of her family, instructors, and financial aid resources for helping her stay in school.

“When I found out I qualified [for the Washington College Grant], I felt incredibly relieved and grateful, because it meant I could continue my education without so much financial stress,” Tamariya said. “It’s been life-changing because it’s allowed me to continue my studies full-time while focusing on my career goals. Without it, I likely would have had to work more hours, delay my education, or take out loans.”

Now looking ahead, Tamariya is focused on completing her BAS program and beginning her career as an early childhood educator. She hopes to make a difference “by supporting children during their most important years of development and being a positive role model for other students in my community who are thinking about pursuing higher education.”

Why It Matters Now

Recent data show encouraging signs:

  • Enrollment of students receiving need-based aid has increased by 30% at community and technical colleges and 4% at public four-year institutions during the pandemic recovery period.
  • At community and technical colleges, enrollment by racial/ethnic group rose the most for Black/African American students with a 28.4% increase and Latino students with a 26.9% increase from 2022 to 2024. Meanwhile, American Indian/Alaska Native (+16.2%) and Black/African American (+13.9%) student enrollment rose the most at public four-year institutions.
  • Washingtonians overwhelmingly value higher education. Three-quarters of voters support the state’s 70% credential attainment goal.

These are hard-won gains, but they are fragile. Recent state-level cuts could reverse this momentum, making it harder for students to access college and for employers to find skilled workers, making it harder for students to access college and for employers to find skilled workers. If funding for programs like the Washington College Grant is reduced further, it would have devastating consequences, particularly for students of color, women, and first-generation college students.

What We Can Do

To maintain Washington’s progress, the College Promise Coalition urges state leaders to:

  • Protect and sustain funding for the Washington College Grant and other proven student aid programs.
  • Avoid further cuts that limit access, affordability, and opportunity.
  • Keep Washington’s workforce goals on track by prioritizing postsecondary access and credential completion.

And our broader community has a role, too. Encourage the students in your family, schools, and networks to complete the FAFSA or WASFA now. Applications are open, and there is more funding available than many realize.

Looking Ahead

As Washington lawmakers prepare for the upcoming session, they have an opportunity to protect and restore critical investments in higher education. Students are working hard to earn credentials that will power our economy. Now, our job is to ensure every student has the support they need to finish strong.

Together, we can keep Washington’s promise, protecting opportunity, strengthening our workforce, and building a brighter, more equitable future for all.

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Financial Aid Does Not Just Fund an Education. It Builds Opportunity, and that Benefits All of Us.
Financial Aid Does Not Just Fund an Education. It Builds Opportunity, and that Benefits All of Us. 600 600 College Promise Coalition

NEWSLETTER

Financial Aid Does Not Just Fund an Education. It Builds Opportunity, and that Benefits All of Us.

October 25, 2025

Tamariya Smith
Marc-Antony Johnson

For students like Tamariya and Marc-Antony, financial aid opened doors that once felt out of reach and kept those doors open when the path forward got tough.

Tamariya recently graduated with her Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degree and is now pursuing a Bachelor of Applied Science (BAS) in Early Childhood Education at North Seattle College. Balancing school, work, and family responsibilities hasn’t been easy, but the Washington College Grant (WA Grant) helped make it possible.

“Without it, I likely would have had to work more hours, delay my education, or take out loans,” Tamariya says. “It’s been life-changing because it’s allowed me to continue my studies full-time while focusing on my career goals.”

For Marc-Antony, now part of the University of Washington Tacoma Class of 2029, financial aid means more than affordability. It represents equity and opportunity. A transfer student from Evergreen State College, Marc-Antony is studying law and is already active in campus groups focused on activism and lobbying at the State Capitol.

“Financial aid does not just fund an education. It builds opportunity, and that benefits all of us,” he says. Without the Washington College Grant, “I would be pressured into working full-time to help my family stay afloat, and I would likely have to step away from school.”

Both students are proof that when Washington invests in education, it invests in its people. They represent future teachers, advocates, and leaders who are committed to making a difference in their communities.

Why This Matters

Tamariya and Marc-Antony’s stories highlight what happens when students have access to the resources they need to succeed. Yet many Washington students still face significant barriers, including rising costs, limited awareness of aid, and the risk of funding cuts that could close pathways to opportunity.

Washington’s economy is projected to have more than 1.5 million job openings by 2032, with 75% requiring a post-high school credential. To meet that demand, programs like the Washington College Grant are essential. They don’t just help students pay for college; they help build the skilled workforce that keeps our state strong.

Keep the Momentum Going

Supporting students like Tamariya and Marc-Antony means supporting Washington’s future. When lawmakers invest in programs that make higher education accessible, they create lasting impact for students, families, communities, and the state’s economy.

Financial aid isn’t just about getting through college. It’s about what happens after: stronger communities, a more resilient workforce, and opportunity that multiplies.

Call to Action

Do you have any high school seniors in your network? Encourage them to apply for financial aid for the 2026-27 academic year, as applications are now open!

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“Without student aid, I wouldn’t be in college. It’s that simple.”
“Without student aid, I wouldn’t be in college. It’s that simple.” 600 600 College Promise Coalition

NEWSLETTER

“Without student aid, I wouldn’t be in college. It’s that simple.”

September 16, 2025

Kathleen Duncan

For Kathleen Duncan, a student at Clover Park Technical College, financial aid didn’t just open the door to higher education, it kept her there. Scholarships, work-study, and grants like the Washington College Grant (WA Grant) allowed Kathleen to cover tuition, pay for books, and make ends meet. That support has made all the difference.

Kathleen first earned her associate degree in early childhood education, preparing for a career helping young learners thrive. Now, she’s pursuing a second associate degree in graphic design, building on her creativity. Along the way, she’s also found her voice as a student advocate, working to ensure every student feels supported, seen, and valued on campus.

“Financial aid gave me that support. It gave me a community. And it gave me the tools to build a better future for myself and for others. I’m proud of what I’ve accomplished, and I’m even more excited for what’s ahead,” Kathleen says.

Why This Matters

Kathleen’s story reflects the promise of higher education when students have the resources they need. But too many students across Washington still face barriers such as rising costs, complex systems, and cuts to critical support programs.

Our state is projected to see more than 1.5 million job openings by 2032, with 75% requiring a credential after high school. Yet, Washington faces a shortfall of nearly 600,000 skilled workers. Programs like the WA Grant are essential to closing that gap by ensuring that students can pursue their dreams, and that Washington has the talent to meet workforce needs.

We cannot afford to roll back progress. Community and technical college enrollment is beginning to rebound after the pandemic, especially among students of color, but those gains are fragile. If core investments like the WA Grant are cut, students will face fewer choices, and our state will face even greater workforce challenges.

Support Today’s Students, Strengthen Tomorrow’s Workforce

Lawmakers must continue to invest in students like Kathleen by protecting financial aid and programs that remove barriers to education. When students have the resources they need, they don’t just chase their own dreams, they help others do the same.

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Seattle Times: UW, other WA colleges face big money problems
Seattle Times: UW, other WA colleges face big money problems 1020 681 College Promise Coalition

Washington’s Students Are Ready: Let’s Not Hold Them Back
Washington’s Students Are Ready: Let’s Not Hold Them Back 600 600 College Promise Coalition

NEWSLETTER

Washington’s Students Are Ready: Let’s Not Hold Them Back

July 7, 2025

Zari
Colton
Rodrigo

Students like Zari, Colton, and Rodrigo have big dreams and are ready to build the skills our state needs. Washington’s economy is expected to see more than 1.5 million job openings by 2032, but 75% of these jobs will require education beyond high school such as degrees, apprenticeships, and industry-aligned certificates.

Yet too many students still face barriers like rising costs, confusing financial aid systems, and cuts to the programs that help them succeed.

Zari, a Pacific Lutheran University senior, used the Washington College Grant to earn her degree in Communication minoring in music without extra debt. Without it, she says she would have been forced to take out more loans or work longer hours, putting her education at risk. Today, she is ready to contribute her creativity and voice to nonprofit marketing, content creation, and her community.

Colton, a senior at Whitworth University, is studying business management and minoring in music. Growing up in a small town, he wanted to see more of the world and reach his full potential. Switching majors was challenging, but supportive advisors helped him find the right path. The Washington College Grant changed his question from “Can I afford higher education?” to “What school do I want to go to?” It allowed him to self-fund his education with part-time work, reduce his debt, and even travel abroad with the Wind Symphony, expanding his perspective and growth. Now, he’s ready to take the next step and launch his career.

Rodrigo, a student at Western Washington University, is pursuing a bachelor’s degree in business with a concentration in Management Information Systems. Born in Guatemala, Rodrigo’s family moved to the U.S. for a better future. At first, the cost of college seemed impossible, and he nearly gave up on his dream. Learning about FAFSA, the Washington College Grant, and other scholarships turned things around. Now, he’s able to earn his degree without the burden of overwhelming debt. Through work-study and an AmeriCorps position, Rodrigo discovered his passion for helping others and giving back. Today, he works at Futures NW guiding students and families through the FAFSA process, paying forward the support he received and showing what’s possible when students have the right resources.

Protect pathways to opportunity

Students like Zari, Colton, and Rodrigo need our help. Recent budget cuts threaten the very programs that keep college and training pathways open, including the Washington College Grant.

Washingtonians value postsecondary education. Nearly 90% of our high school students say they want to continue their education after high school. Enrollment is climbing at our community and technical colleges, especially among students of color. But these gains are fragile. Cutting funding now could reverse this momentum, leaving students with fewer choices and our state with a shortfall of nearly 600,000 skilled workers by 2032.

Call to action: Keep Washington’s promise to students

As lawmakers look ahead, we urge them to protect core investments in postsecondary education, maintain programs that remove barriers for students, and make it easier for every student to earn the credential they need to succeed.

Together, we can ensure cost and uncertainty do not stand in the way of Washington’s students and our state’s future.

In partnership,
College Promise Coalition

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College Promise Coalition

The College Promise Coalition is a broad-based group advocating for increased higher education access and opportunity for Washington students.

cpc@collegepromisewashington.org

© 2026 | Paid for by College Promise Coalition

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