FILE PHOTO: juniper tree.
LOGAN – Bridgerland Technical College (BTECH) has announced an initiative aimed at supporting survivors of sexual exploitation in their pursuit of higher education. The institution is now offering the Malouf Foundation’s Juniper Scholarship, a comprehensive program covering 100 percent of tuition, books, and pre-admission courses for any in-person program at BTECH.
This initiative marks a step forward in addressing the needs of survivors of sexual exploitation. BTECH becomes the second college in the state of Utah to offer this scholarship, signaling a growing recognition of the importance of such initiatives in the academic landscape.
The foundation named the scholarship after the Utah juniper tree as it stands strong in the face of adversity.
“Its ability to grow despite harsh conditions parallels the experience of many survivors—who despite being forced to endure cruel environments, still found hope and freedom,” the foundation explains on its website. “With its resilient trunk and evergreen leaves, the spirited juniper is a reminder of strength, hope, and perseverance. In naming this scholarship after the juniper, we hope to inspire survivors to pursue an education, to remind them of their remarkable strength, and to honor their incredible spirits.”
Tricia Johnson, Associate Vice President of BTECH, expressed her enthusiasm for the partnership with the Malouf Foundation, emphasizing the institution’s commitment to providing a supportive environment for survivors as they embark on their educational journey.
“We hope survivors will feel the warmth and support of Bridgerland as they take steps towards healing and building a better future,” said Johnson. “We truly believe higher education provides the opportunity to create a new future, and this scholarship will ease the financial burden of getting there.”
The Juniper Scholarship, launched by the Malouf Foundation in 2021, aims to empower survivors of sexual exploitation by easing the financial barriers to higher education. The scholarship was initially started at Southern Utah University (SUU).
Kacie Malouf, co-founder and board chair of the Malouf Foundation, emphasized the importance of education in the healing process for survivors.
“We’re grateful to our donors and our education partners, BTECH and SUU, for their compassion for survivors and commitment to make this scholarship a reality,” said Malouf. “We want survivors to be empowered in their healing, and for many of them, higher education is an important part of that journey.”
To be eligible for the scholarship, applicants must be survivors of sexual exploitation and meet the requirements for admission to BTECH. Additionally, applicants are required to fill out the scholarship application available on the Malouf Foundation’s website and provide a referral from a medical professional, therapist, social worker, or another third party. If applicants cannot provide a third-party reference, they’re encouraged to email [email protected].
The scholarship award committee will review applications and notify recipients of their decision.
For survivors seeking support or resources related to sexual violence, various helplines and hotlines are available, including the National Sexual Assault Hotline (1-800-656-4673), the National Human Trafficking Hotline (888-373-7888), or via live chat at rainn.org.