Terry and Patt Payne have dedicated their lives to educational philanthropy. Gonzaga University, as the most recent benefactor, has just received a $7 million grant to support financial aid and student success.
Of that amount, $5 million will establish the Payne Student Success Initiative, while $2 million will help offset Washington State’s recent financial aid cuts. Beginning in the 2026-27 school year, 25 first-generation students from Oregon, Washington, Idaho and Montana will receive annual $25,000 scholarships and participate in a mentorship program.
Sarah Everitt, dean of Student Financial Services at GU, said that this scholarship is available to first-year, first-generation students from Oregon, Idaho and Washington and there is no formal application process…