What is the Initiative?

Support for talented, creative, and committed students with a diversity of backgrounds and perspectives

Middlebury’s life-changing, world-shaping education is possible only when students from every background are able to participate in it. To succeed in the 21^st century—which means to be engaged in the world in a way that enables alumni to make a difference, to gain a sense of achievement, and to be true to themselves—they must be multicultural, multinational, and multi-operational in how they think. That is only possible when students are comfortable with the notion of difference because they have experienced a diverse community.

Financial aid is the most powerful tool the College has to create this kind of learning community. It enables the College to draw bright young scholars from every state, from different socioeconomic, racial, and ethnic backgrounds, and from around the world. They bring their eagerness, their talents, their history, and their perspectives. They teach each other how to live, work, and thrive together in our diverse and complex world. Providing the financial support necessary to bring and keep them here is one of Middlebury’s top priorities.