More students in the University of Richmond's School of Continuing Studies will get more money to further their education.

The Bernard Osher Foundation of San Francisco recently announced a $1 million gift to the school to fund scholarships for re-entry students, nontraditional students who are returning to or beginning to study for a college degree.

"Financing is among the most significant barriers adults returning to school must face," said James Narduzzi, dean of the school.

"This gift doubles the amount of scholarships we can offer."

The money will go into UR's endowment, and the income will fund 25 scholarships of $2,000 each, beginning in 2009-10.

The university previously has received two $50,000 grants from the Osher Foundation for scholarships.

UR's School of Continuing Studies offers courses for nontraditional students through degree, certificate and noncredit programs. Currently, about 1,200 students take classes for academic credit, and more than 5,000 take noncredit courses each year.

"Our role is to be an access point to the university for the community," he said.

The $2,000 scholarships for re-entry students will cover about half the cost of tuition for a typical student, Narduzzi said.

Excluding the most recent gift, the Osher Foundation has provided $1.45 million for the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute, which gives local residents age 50 and older the ability to take courses, use some university facilities and attend lectures, programs and performances on campus.
Contact Lisa Crutchfield at (804) 649-6362 or lcrutchfield@timesdispatch.com.